Culinary Delights and Cultural Wonders in Shiwa, Japan Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to the serene Chuson-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its historic treasures. After exploring the temple, enjoy a delightful morning tea at Fukuya Soba Noodle, where you can also try their famous soba noodles.

For the afternoon, take a short trip to the neighboring city of Kitakami and visit the beautiful Tenshochi Park, especially stunning during cherry blossom season. Enjoy a riverside lunch at Mugi no Oto / Hey-rasshai / BRAIAN BAR, offering a variety of international dishes.

Return to Shiwa and treat yourself to a crispy and satisfying tonkatsu dinner at Tonkatsu Hajime. Afterward, take a relaxing evening walk at Morioka Castle Ruins Park, where you can admire the illuminated castle ruins and the surrounding moat.

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at DAIOU Curry Ramen Noboribetsu Onsen Shop, where you can enjoy a unique fusion of Japanese curry and ramen. After breakfast, take a morning visit to the Morioka Hachimangu Shrine, one of the most important shrines in the region.

Enjoy a cultural performance at the Morioka History and Culture Museum, where you can learn about the local traditions and history. For lunch, head to Vietnam Frog for a refreshing taste of Vietnamese cuisine, offering a variety of pho and banh mi options.

Conclude your day with a visit to the Morioka Zoological Park, home to a wide range of animals from around the world. For dinner, experience the lively atmosphere of Kaiju Sakaba Shimbashi, a themed izakaya offering a selection of drinks and small plates.

Embark on a ramen quest by starting your day with a visit to Ramen Taiji, known for its rich and flavorful bowls. Afterward, take a morning stroll along the Morioka Chuo-dori Shotengai, a bustling shopping street with a wide variety of local shops and vendors.

For lunch, enjoy the open-air dining experience at Onsen Ichiba, where you can sample fresh seafood and local delicacies. After lunch, take a short trip to the scenic Ryusendo Cave, one of Japan's most famous limestone caves, and explore the otherworldly underground formations.

Return to Shiwa and relax by the Kitakami River at Takkoku no Iwaya, an ancient Buddhist cave temple with a peaceful atmosphere. For dinner, savor the flavors of Italy at PIZZERIA ASTRA, offering authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas and a selection of fine wines.

Enjoy a morning of tranquility at Morioka Sanriku Railway, a scenic train ride that takes you through the beautiful landscapes of Iwate Prefecture. For breakfast, visit Mentaro for a taste of their famous soba noodles, a perfect start to the day.

After the train ride, take a guided tour of the Morioka Sake Brewery to learn about the local sake-making process and enjoy some tastings. For lunch, head to Bubby's Shiodome for a hearty American-style meal with a view of the city skyline.

Conclude your trip with a visit to Morioka ILC Construction Site, where you can learn about the cutting-edge science and technology behind the International Linear Collider project. For a final dinner in Shiwa, experience the warm hospitality of Sushi Chiwa, known for its traditional sushi and elegant dining atmosphere.