[Iwate] Feel nostalgic. Travel back in time to the Meiji era with a retro stroll at Morioka Station

Morioka Station, the center of Iwate Prefecture, once flourished as a castle town of the Nanbu domain. Historic buildings and old townhouses built in the Meiji era still remain today, so take a walk and enjoy the retro atmosphere. There are cute general stores and delicious restaurants, so it's a good idea to stop by.

Iwate Bank Nakanohashi Branch

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When you get to JR Iwate Station, first take the Morioka City Loop Bus Dendenmushi (counterclockwise) and get off at the Morioka Bus Center.
You will see the Iwate Bank Nakanohashi branch. The Iwate Bank Nakanohashi Branch, with its dome-shaped roof symbolizing Renaissance architecture and impressive red brick construction, is a symbol of Morioka City.
It is surprising that it has continued to function as an active bank since it was completed in 1909. Be sure to take a commemorative photo.

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Kama-sada

After leaving the Iwate Bank Nakanohashi branch and walking for about 2 minutes, you will see a retro shop with the word ``Kama'' written on it.
There is a famous Nanbu ironware store called ``Kamasada'' that has been in business since the Meiji era.
It is famous as a long-established store of Nanbu ironware, a specialty of Iwate, and is a world-famous store that has even been exhibited at MoMa. Frying pans and pots are relatively reasonably priced at 3,000 to 5,000 yen, so why not buy some as souvenirs? It respects tradition while incorporating modern design, making it very stylish.

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Public Hall Taga

If you get tired of walking, take a break and have a meal at a restaurant. Kokaido Taga, located in front of Iwate Prefectural and City Hall, is a long-established French restaurant with a classic atmosphere. It is also known that Nitobe Inazo used to pass there. Although more than 80 years have passed since the establishment, the interior of the store has remained unchanged since its founding. Although it is a famous restaurant, the chef's recommended lunch is around 1,300 yen, and the specialty hayashi rice is around 500 yen, so it's a reasonable price, so you can easily stop by.

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upper bridge

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Once your stomach is full, it's time to walk north along the Nakatsugawa River. The upper bridge with its impressive wooden railings comes into view. The railings of the bridge, which was built in 1986, are decorated with bronze imitation jewels, which are rare in Japan. Walking while watching the river flow will give you a relaxing feeling.

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Mitsuharasha

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The last place you should visit on your Morioka retro walk is Kogensha Shrine, located along the Kitakami River. It's a little far from the upper bridge, so we recommend riding the Denden Mushi and sightseeing on the way back to Morioka Station.
This is a publishing company known for publishing ``Restaurant with Many Orders'' by Kenji Miyazawa, a famous writer from Hanamaki City, Iwate Prefecture, and currently sells and exhibits folk crafts. The picture postcard set of ``Restaurant with many orders'' is popular.
There is also a coffee shop inside the company, where you can enjoy coffee in a retro atmosphere. If you are a Kenji Miyazawa fan, this is a must-see spot.

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summary

You can walk around the area for half a day, or you can walk around the area in about an hour. You can trace the history of Morioka City, which prospered from the Meiji to Taisho periods. This walking route is also recommended for people who came to Morioka on business but don't have time to sightsee.