Iwate Prefecture is Japan's second-largest prefecture by area, stretching from the rugged Sanriku coast in the east to the volcanic Ou Mountains in the west. Home to the UNESCO World Heritage Hiraizumi temples, the folklore-rich Tono Basin, and the castle town of Morioka, Iwate rewards travelers who seek depth over crowds. Wanko soba banquets, iron-craft workshops, and remote river gorges define a destination that feels authentically Japanese.
Luxury hotels
Five-star and palace properties.
Luxury
Hanamaki Onsen Ryokan Yama-no-Yu
Luxury
Fujisan Grand Hotel Appi (Appi Kogen)
Luxury
Hiraizumi Palace Hotel Musashibo
Fine dining
Michelin-starred and chef-driven restaurants.
Fine dining
Kaiseki Ryori Shuzan
Fine dining