Morioka Castle Ruins

Morioka Castle Ruins are the remains of Morioka Castle, built by the Nanbu clan, lords of the Morioka Domain. The castle is also known as Kozukata Castle and was constructed at the confluence of the Kitakami River and the Nakatsu River. While many castles in Tohoku are known for earthen ramparts, Morioka Castle is distinctive as a flatland castle with extensive stone walls. Today, the site is maintained as Morioka Castle Ruins Park and has been selected as one of Japan’s "100 Best Historical Parks." Inside the park, you’ll find many spots to enjoy nature, including plum groves, cherry groves, grassy lawns, and ponds such as Kamega-ike and Tsuruga-ike. You can also connect with local history through features like the Morioka City Historical and Cultural Museum and poetry monuments dedicated to Inazo Nitobe, Takuboku Ishikawa, and Kenji Miyazawa. The park is about a 20-minute walk from JR "Morioka Station." For an easier ride, take the city-center loop bus "Dendenmushi" (left loop) from the "Morioka Station-mae" bus stop—about six minutes to "Morioka Castle Ruins Park." A paid underground parking lot is available, making it accessible by car; parking hours are 7:00–20:00. In late April, around 250 cherry trees bloom and the "Morioka Sakura Festival" is held. The famous "Ishiwari-zakura"—a cherry tree growing from a split in a massive rock—is also nearby, making spring an especially scenic time to visit.