Iwate

WARNING On 11th March 2011 the region was hit by an earthquake with an 8.9 magnitude followed by a tsunami and several aftershocks. The prefecture is now safe to visit, although relief efforts are being conducted along the coast. Iwate prefecture (岩手県 Iwate-ken) is in the northeastern Tohoku region of the main Japanese island Honshu. Understand Cities Morioka — The prefectural capital. Hachimantai Hanamaki — Hanamaki is most famous as the birthplace of Kenji Miyazawa and for its onsen. Hiraizumi — once rivaled Kyoto, but now known for two temples and a poet who visited 400 years ago. Ichinoseki Iwaizumi — the town has Ryusendo, one of Japan's three famous caves. Kamaishi Kuji— a small city known for its amber production and alma diver women. Kuzumaki — has rich nature. Miyako Ninohe Otsuchi Rikuzentakata Tono — a small city famous for its folk tales. Tanohata — is proud of Kitayamasaki Cape, seaweed and farm products. Other destinations Ryusendo lime stone cave - located in Iwaizumi, considered one of the three major lime stone caves in Japan.It also boasts one of the largest underground lakes in Japan, with crystal-clear water. Appi ski resort - one of the best ski grounds in Tohoku, with runs for all levels. Talk Get in By plane By train The Tohoku Shinkansen barrels through Ichinoseki and Morioka on its way from Sendai north to Aomori. IGR Iwate Ginga Tetsudo It's north train of Iwate JR Yamada Line JR Hanawa Line JR Tazawako Line JR Iwaizumi Line One of JR's least frequent service lines with 3 daily round-trip services between Moichi and Iwaizumi. Sanriku Railway (Kita-Lias Line) runs between Miyako (Iwate) and Kuji. By bus Get around See Geibikei Gorge (near Ichinoseki)-enjoy a ride on one of the boats and listen to the singing of your guide. Feed koi carp in warmer weather, enjoy the changing leaves in the fall and the snow in the winter. Do tetsukuri mura(盛岡手づくり村, "handmade village") Eat Azumaya you can eat wanko-soba Pyon pyon Sya It's famouse for Reimen (cold noodles) shop. There are many chain shops in Iwate and Tokyo. Drink Get out Aomori Prefecture Akita Prefecture Miyagi Prefecture This article is an outline and needs more content. It has a template, but there is not enough information present. Please plunge forward and help it grow!