Morioka
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By train
Morioka is a major train station on the Tohoku Shinkansen line.
The most frequent Shinkansen services from Tokyo to Morioka are the all reserved Komachi and Hayate , which normally run coupled together as a single train. The ride takes 2 1/2 hours at a cost of ¥13,840 each way, so you may want to consider purchasing a JR East Rail Pass or Japan Rail Pass beforehand.
Faster Hayabusa services make two daily round-trips between Morioka and both Tokyo and Aomori, complementing the other services. Fares for the Hayabusa are slightly higher.
The Japan Rail Pass and JR East Rail Pass is valid for Ordinary and Green Cars on the Hayate, Komachi and Hayabusa. On the other hand, rail passes will only cover the basic fare if you are willing to try out the premium first class seating on the Hayabusa called "GranClass". To use "GranClass" the limited express and GranClass fare has to be paid. Without a rail pass, "GranClass" costs ¥22,830 between Tokyo and Morioka.
By bus
An overnight bus service, the Rakuchin, runs twice nightly from Tokyo Station to Morioka. Other companies offer cheaper, less comfortable rides for as little as ¥5,000.
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Morioka Zoological Park
The opening of the zoological park, on the southern slope of Iwayama took place in April 1989. It symbolizes a new era for the city. The park was meticulously designed so that one can observe animals in their, as much as possible, natural environment. It facilitates not only research and exhibition of animals, it provides an atmosphere where people can be in close touch with them. While taking in the sights, people can enjoy picnicking and the outdoors in this new type of zoological park.
The Children's Science Museum
The museum was built in 1983 to help children explore their scientific imaginations. Inside there are many attractions including robots and planetarium.
The Morioka Memorial Museum of Great Predecessors
This Japanese style building with a tiled roof and white walls, opening in 1988, was built to manifest the achievements of predecessors from the Morioka area. It features the works of Dr. Inazo Nitobe, whose works helped bridge the east and the west
The Site of Morioka Castle
With the Nakatsu River from the east and the Kitakami River from the north, the area provided many natural defenses. Exploiting this strategic location, in 1597 the Nambu lord, Nobunao began construction of the castle. Completed in 1633, it become the home of all the successive lords.
During battles of the Meiji Restoration, the castle was destroyed leaving only the stone walls as the only remaining vestige
The Rock Splitting Cherry Tree
This magnificent cherry tree sprouted from within the crack of a giant granite boulder, splitting it as it grew. Delicate pale pink petals can be admired every April when the tree is in full bloom. Estimated to be three to four hundred years old, it grows in front of the Morioka Court of Justice.
In 1923, it was designated as a National Treasure. Throughout the year it continues to capture all the hearts of the Morioka residents.
Ho Onji
Among 208 temples, Ho Onji was the main temple during the Nambu reign. Even today, it is used for Buddhist services, such as praying for the Nambu family.
Statues of the 500 Disciples of Buddha
Housed in the Ho Onji, these statues were created by Kyoto sculptors. They are made out of wood and finished with Japanese lacquer. Included within the display are statues of Marco Polo and Kublai Khan.
March - July
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