Kitakami - A Treasure Trove of Charming Tourist Spots

The Story of Kitakami City Engraved in the Townscape

Kitakami City is a municipality located in the southeastern part of Iwate Prefecture. The city has been the site of people's lives since ancient times, with the weight of the ages deeply etched into its streetscape. The Kitakami River, which flows through the city, was once a vital water transportation route, and along its banks stand traditional machiya houses and storehouses. The main street in the city center is lined with brick-built Western-style architecture, which harmonizes historical buildings with modern facilities, captivating visitors.

Plenty of Highlights such as the World Heritage Site of Nisshinkan Douri

Kitakami City is home to numerous historical sites designated as national treasures and important cultural properties. Among them, the Nisshinkan Douri is the oldest independent detached hall in Japan, built in 1634 and registered as a World Heritage Site in 2022. The elegant main hall welcomes worshipers.

Moreover, along the former Dewa Kaido highway, stand machiya houses and inns that retain the architectural style of the Edo period, exuding a timeless charm. As a modern architectural site, the Kitakami Ironworks from the Meiji era attracts attention. The group of brick-built buildings conveys the state of industrial development at that time.

Enjoy Activities by the Riverside of the Kitakami River

The Kitakami River has become a place for play and intimacy. Visitors can stroll along the riverside promenade, enjoy exhilarating cycling, or take part in activities such as canoeing and rafting. Depending on the season, there are many enthusiasts for fishing for sweetfish and river fishing. The natural colors reflected on the water surface are breathtaking.

Delicious Food and Soulful Traditional Crafts

In Kitakami City, local dishes using seasonal ingredients are popular. In hitsumabushi cuisine, the richness of the broth infuses the flavor of the ingredients. Traditional flavors like rice cakes and Japanese sweets are not to be missed.

Furthermore, the traditional crafts of cherry tree bark work and woodworking shine with the skills of many artisans. These remarkable works serve as a spiritual support for the local residents and make wonderful souvenirs for visitors.

Detailed Information

• Nisshinkan Douri: Admission fee 300 yen, open from 9:00 to 17:00
• Kitakami Ironworks site: Free admission, open all day
• Activities such as canoeing and rafting may require advance reservation.

Kitakami City is a place where you can experience the culture that has been cultivated over the years. As a charming tourist destination blessed with history and nature, why not visit here.