Iwate Prefecture

Welcome to Iwate Prefecture

Japan’s second-largest prefecture, Iwate-ken (岩手県) is a quiet place, largely characterised by sleepy valleys, a rugged coastline and some pretty serious mountain ranges. Although the region once played host to warring states and feudal rule, there are few remnants of this turbulent past, aside from the magnificent temples at Hiraizumi. Indeed, Iwate feels more provincial – in the best of ways – and stopping in... Read More