If you are going to Oshu (Esashi/Mizusawa) in Iwate Prefecture, this is the place | 9 recommended tourist spots

Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa), located in the southern inland area of Iwate Prefecture, is a town with a long history and distinct four seasons. With numerous tourist attractions scattered throughout, you can experience both the town’s history and the changing seasons.

Despite facing numerous fires, historic temples and shrines have been well-preserved and continue to stand today. The town also boasts beautiful parks that come alive with stunning cherry blossoms in the spring. Additionally, visitors can enjoy local specialty products at dedicated spots, and there are also educational facilities where both children and adults can learn about history and science in a fun way.

This article introduces 9 recommended tourist spots that you definitely want to visit when traveling to Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa), Iwate Prefecture, a town filled with fun and attractions.

1. Mizusawa Park

Located in a convenient urban area, a short 10-minute walk from Mizusawa Station on the Tohoku Main Line, "Mizusawa Park" is a beloved recreational spot for the citizens of Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa). Many local residents and tourists alike visit this park to enjoy its vast natural expanse.

Adjacent to the park is the Takano Choei Memorial Hall, commemorating a significant figure from Oshu. While leisurely strolling through the park, you can learn about the history of the park and its surroundings.

In the spring, over 500 beautiful cherry blossoms adorn the park, creating a breathtaking sight. Every year during the cherry blossom season, the trees are illuminated, attracting not only local visitors but also tourists from other prefectures and even foreign countries.

In autumn, the park offers a stunning display of colorful autumn foliage, making it a true pride of Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa).

2. Esashi Fujiwara Historical Park

History Park Esashi Fujiwara no Sato is located near Hiraizumi, a World Cultural Heritage site. This historical theme park recreates the culture of Tohoku during the Heian period.

With over 120 reconstructed historical buildings, the park is so realistic that it has been used as a filming location for historical dramas. As soon as you step into this vast area, you'll feel as if you've traveled back in time to the Heian period.

3. Okuno Shohoji Temple

Shohoji Temple, a historic temple of the Soto Zen sect, was founded in Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa) in 1348 by Muso Ryosho Zenji.

Standing majestically among lush trees, Shohoji Temple exudes a serene atmosphere. However, it has suffered numerous fires in the past, resulting in the loss of many buildings. In 1990, three buildings, including the Hodo (main hall), were designated as Important Cultural Properties by the government, and the temple is now known as "Oku no Shohoji Temple," attracting many domestic and international tourists. As you stroll through the temple grounds, you'll find yourself calming down amidst the fresh air.

The Hodo, with its massive thatched roof, is an impressive sight. If you visit Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa), this temple is a must-see.

4. Mukaiyama Park

Located on a small hill overlooking Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa), "Mukaiyama Park" offers a scenic view of History Park Esashi Fujiwara no Sato.

This park is rich in nature and offers beautiful seasonal views. No matter when you visit, Mukaiyama Park always presents a different face with each changing season, attracting many local residents and tourists. It is especially popular as a spot to view autumn foliage and cherry blossoms.

Within the park, there are also historic buildings such as the former Kyoryo Hospital (Meiji Memorial Hall) and the former Goto family residence, allowing you to learn about the history of the town. The former Goto family residence is designated as an Important Cultural Property.

Mukaiyama Park has an observation deck that offers a panoramic view of the city of Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa), making it a valuable tourist attraction. It is very close to Fujiwara no Sato, so it is a must-visit spot when you come to Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa).

5. Michi no Eki Mizusawa

Located near the Kitakami River along National Route 343, "Michi no Eki Mizusawa" is a must-visit spot if you're tired from driving around Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa).

More than just a roadside rest stop, Michi no Eki Mizusawa is committed to revitalizing Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa). Here, you can find fresh vegetables, fruits, and flowers grown in local Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa). Additionally, you can purchase souvenirs such as Nanbu Tekki (southern ironware), making it a popular spot for tourists.

Many visitors to Michi no Eki Mizusawa can be seen enjoying soft cream. The sesame soft cream sold here is a local specialty. Moreover, on the riverbank of the Kitakami River, just outside the building, you can see locals enjoying barbecues. It's nice to take a break and leisurely explore the riverbank area.

When you come to Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa), be sure to stop by and take a break. You can chat with local people and get information about local vegetables and tourist attractions.

6. Oshu Space Science Museum

The "Oshu Space Science Museum" is conveniently located in the urban area of Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa), about 1.5 kilometers from Mizusawa Station on the Tohoku Main Line.

Originally a latitude observatory, the museum houses exhibits on astronomy, stargazing, and other space-related topics. In particular, the 4D digital universe theater, developed by the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan, offers a breathtaking experience that makes you feel as if you've stepped into the universe. You might even find yourself reaching out to touch the stars projected before you.

In addition to exhibits, the Oshu Space Science Museum also holds fun events. These events range from seminars featuring talks by experts on planets and the universe to unique workshops on how to beautifully photograph stars. Many local residents and tourists enjoy participating in these events.

Whether you're visiting with children or alone, you can create unique travel memories at the Oshu Space Science Museum, where you can learn in a fun and engaging way.

7. Hidaka Shrine

Located in Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa), Hidaka Shrine is a historic shrine with records indicating that it was built in 810 (the first year of the Kohen era) by the order of Emperor Suga and was visited by Date Masamune.

Every year on April 28th and 29th, the "Hidaka Fire Prevention Festival" is held. This traditional festival is a colorful event featuring ornate hayashi (Japanese traditional music) floats that parade through the town. Every year around this time, many domestic and foreign tourists visit Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa) to enjoy this grand festival. The Hidaka Bayashi, the music played during the festival, is designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Iwate Prefecture. The main hall is a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan, preserving a valuable construction method.

Within the shrine grounds, there are also two cedar trees. There is a "Sword Washing Stone Monument" said to be the place where Minamoto no Yoshitsune washed the sword he used to defeat Abe Sadao, as well as an Ubasugi (old cedar tree) designated as a natural monument of Mizusawa City. After offering your prayers, be sure to take a leisurely stroll through the grounds.

Hidaka Shrine is a historic shrine that you should definitely visit when you come to Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa).

8. Esashi Furusato Market

Located about a 5-minute drive from Mizusawa-Esashi Station on the Tohoku Shinkansen, the "Esashi Furusato Market" is a delightful spot for tourists, offering fresh vegetables, fruits, and local specialty products, including famous local sweets, produced by proud farmers from Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa). The locally grown apples of Esashi are particularly eye-catching, with their shiny appearance.

The Oshu-produced agricultural products lined up throughout the market are labeled with the names of their producers, demonstrating the market's commitment to providing delicious and safe products. Every Sunday, fresh seafood is directly delivered from Kesen Numa Port and Ofunado Port in Iwate Prefecture. Please note that this may not be available depending on the weather.

The Esashi Direct Sales Dining Hall within the market serves delicious local dishes and set meals using local ingredients. The apple soft cream made with locally grown apples is particularly popular among tourists. Come and explore the delicious flavors of Oshu.

9. Kuroishiji Temple

Kuroishiji Temple is a historic Tendai sect temple with a long history in Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa). It is said to have been built in 729 (the first year of the Tenpyo era) by the monk Gyoki as the first temple in the Tohoku region.

Surrounded by colorful trees, the temple houses numerous valuable ancient Buddhist statues, including a wooden seated statue of Yakushi Nyorai, designated as an Important Cultural Property, as well as statues of the Twelve Devas and the Four Heavenly Kings. Reservations are required to view these precious statues, but as a treasure deeply connected to the history of Tohoku, they are definitely worth seeing when visiting Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa). Reservations are not required to simply visit the temple grounds.

The Somin Festival, a naked festival with over 1,000 years of history in Iwate Prefecture, is designated as a Selected Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. While this festival is held in various locations throughout the prefecture, the Kuroishiji Somin Festival is particularly famous as one of Japan's three major naked festivals. Many tourists visit from outside of Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa). The festival is held every year from the evening of the 7th to the 8th day of the old lunar New Year, and men wearing only loincloths pray for the elimination of disasters and a bountiful harvest in the midst of the extreme cold and snow.

Nestled deep in the mountains of Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa), Kuroishiji Temple, with its traditional main hall, precious Buddhist statues, and beautiful surrounding nature, is sure to enrich your soul.

◎Summary

Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa) is a place where you can learn about history while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings. Each location is perfect for enjoying with friends, family, or even on a solo trip.

Why not take a break from your busy everyday life and embark on a journey to slowly explore the ancient history and nature of Oshu (Esashi and Mizusawa)? You're sure to find your favorite spot.

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If you are going to Oshu (Esashi/Mizusawa) in Iwate Prefecture, this is the place | 9 recommended tourist spots