Morioka Self-guided Walking Tour, Morioka, Japan

At the foot of Mount Iwate, Morioka is the largest city in Iwate Prefecture and a provincial city within the Tohoku region which makes an ideal stopping point for those heading north to Aomori and Hokkaido, or for visitors traveling to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hiraizumi. Although it lacks the obvious major attractions of some of its neighbours, Morioka has plenty to offer for visitors – from lush mountainous scenery and local history to architecture and art. Check out this self-guided walking tour for the best of the city’s low-key sightseeing!

Located outside the Morioka District Courthouse, this 400-year old cherry tree inexplicably grows out of the centre of a large granite boulder. A popular attraction in Morioka, it is considered to be a symbol of the city, representing triumph over adversity and the spirit of the local people. The tree is at its best in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, but it is an impressive site at all times of the year. Access to the tree is free, as it is in a public area within the grounds of the court building. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).