We recently went on a trip to Iwate with three generations of our family. We are confident that this will work as a model plan, which will allow you to fully enjoy the charms of Iwate without any trouble for your family trip. Please take a look!
Day１：Koiwai Farm – A Must-Visit for Families
To make the most of your time at Koiwai Farm, consider departing from Tokyo (Ueno) before 9:00 AM. This will allow you to savor a leisurely lunch at the farm and fully enjoy all the activities it has to offer.
Breathtaking Scenery and Spacious Grounds
Upon arrival at Koiwai Farm, you’ll be greeted by a vast expanse of land stretching over 3,000 hectares (approximately 640 times the size of Tokyo Dome!!).
With the majestic Mt. Iwate as the backdrop, the sheer scale of the farm will leave you awestruck.
Lunch with a View at the Sanrei-kan (山麓館）Restaurant
Indulge in a delightful lunch at the Sanrei-kan Restaurant, where you can savor various cuts of meat, a unique experience even for grandparents.
The lamb, devoid of any strong gamy flavor, was a culinary delight. And for the little ones, the children’s lunch set comes served on a smoke-emitting SL-shaped plate, adding a touch of fun to their meal. 🤩
Afternoon Adventures: Athletics, Hammocks, and More
After lunch, embark on an adventure with your children at the farm’s athletic park or experience horseback riding on a horse or pony.
For those seeking relaxation, unwind in the hammocks and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. And for those craving an adrenaline rush, try your hand at archery.
Souvenir Shopping: A Must-Do
Take a break at the Sanrei-kan Souvenir Shop and enjoy with some snacks!
I personally think that the milk here was second to none for the milk I have ever tasted before at farms. You will be amazed by the thick but silky taste!
<The most popular snacks for souvenirs: butter cake>
With a wide selection of unique items only available at the farm, it’s wise to purchase your favorites early and have them shipped to your home or hotel.
Day 2: Chusonji Golden Hall, Oigen the Ironware and Wanko-soba
Morning: Start your day with a refreshing soak in the onsen at your hotel 😺
A visit to the awe-inspiring *Chusonji Temple*
Immerse yourselves in the rich history and spiritual ambiance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You will also discover a treasure trove of exclusive Sanrio character souvenirs that are only sold here!
Delve into the world of traditional craftsmanship at *OIGEN*
a renowned Southern ironware workshop.
You may find the comparison of the two of the most popular Southern Ironware workshops interesting with my another blog post here!
Lunch：Wanko-soba noodle challenge!
See if you can keep up with the rapid-fire noodle delivery!
Immerse yourself in the culinary tradition of Iwate with Wanko Soba, a unique dining experience where you savor bite-sized buckwheat noodles until your heart’s content.
The average male manages around 50 cups, while one adventurous YouTuber reportedly consumed over 400 cups!
It is also awesome that you get a gluttonous certificate when you finish. It’s a great way to remember your noodle-eating adventure.
Reservations are essential for this popular attraction.
Afternoon: Head to Michino-eki Ishigo-dori
A roadside station brimming with local produce and handcrafted goods. Gather some unique souvenirs to commemorate your trip. Upon returning to your hotel, unwind and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Day 3: Iwachu the Ironware, Morioka Delicacies
Morning: Unleash your inner artist at Iwachu
another Southern ironware workshop, where you can create your very own ironware masterpiece. Let your imagination run wild as you transform a lump of iron into a cherished keepsake.
Shopping at FES”AN Morioka
Discover the best of Iwate’s souvenirs at FES”AN Morioka!
Go straight to the 1st floor of ‘ODENSEKAN’ for the selection of authentic local treasures!
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Chachacha Honpo: The Home of Real Warabi Mochi
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Saito Seika: Premium Kamome-no Tamago
Delightful lunch at Kaitenzushi Seijiro
Before departing, indulge in a delightful lunch at Kaitenzushi Seijiro, a popular revolving sushi restaurant in Tohoku area. Savor the freshest seafood delicacies as they pass by on the conveyor belt.
Finally, hop back on the Tohoku Shinkansen and bid farewell to Iwate, carrying a treasure trove of memories.
～For an Unforgettable Multigenerational Trip～
Relaxed Schedule:
Our itinerary is carefully crafted with ample time in the evenings, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable experience for families with young children.
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Early Hotel Arrival: Ensure a smooth and relaxed start to each day by scheduling early hotel check-ins. This will allow you to unwind and settle in before embarking on your daily adventures.
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Early Shinkansen Departure: Plan your return Shinkansen departure from Morioka Station with ample time to spare. This will provide a buffer in case of any unforeseen delays and allow you to enjoy a leisurely farewell to Iwate.
Embark on your Iwate adventure today and discover a world of enchantment, cultural treasures, and unforgettable memories that will bind your family together for generations to come!
