Enjoying Iwate in the cold winter: 9 recommended winter tourist spots in Iwate

Iwate is rich in wisdom for dealing with freezing winter temperatures, making it possible to stay warm even during the coldest months compared to other regions. Because of this, Iwate is an excellent destination for those looking to travel warmly in winter. Here, we introduce the best spots to visit this winter. Create unforgettable winter memories in Iwate!

1. Experience the "World of Ice" event at "Mahora Iwate" in Yabukawa, the coldest place in Honshu

At Akuri Mahora Iwate, a facility located in Yabukawa, Morioka City, the "World of Ice" event is held every winter. This event features stunning ice castles, ice caves, and one of the largest illuminations in Iwate, with 400,000 LED lights.

The ice cave, reminiscent of a scene from Frozen, offers breathtaking photo opportunities and even an ice bar.

The illuminations, which create a different atmosphere from daytime, are ideal for romantic dates. Ice castles and caves are beautifully lit, creating a magical ambiance. Visitors can also enjoy kotatsu seating inside igloos, smelt fishing on ice, and snow rafting pulled by snowmobiles.

On weekends and holidays, a shuttle bus service, "Maho Liner," runs directly between Mahora Iwate and Morioka Station.

2. "KOIWAI Winter Lights: Galaxy Farm Night 2024" at Koiwai Farm

This is one of the largest illumination events in the Tohoku region, held at Koiwai Farm in Iwate. From November 23, 2024, to January 13, 2025, the farm's vast landscape is adorned with 600,000 LED lights, creating an enchanting winter wonderland.

Visitors can enjoy unique attractions such as a light maze, lanterns made from milk cartons, and an illumination-themed train ride. On New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, fireworks displays will also take place.

The illuminations begin in the evening, but visitors can enter some areas for free during the daytime (12:00–15:00).

3. Enjoy dynamic smelt fishing at Lake Gandōko in the cold winter

Lake Gandōko is a man-made lake famous for smelt fishing. While fishing can be difficult for beginners, smelt fishing is easy, even for first-timers, and visitors can expect a great catch. Many tourists, both from within and outside Iwate, visit to experience this activity.

All necessary fishing equipment is available for rent at the site, making it easy to participate empty-handed. Nearby restaurants even cook your freshly caught smelt for free. Since Lake Gandōko is known for extreme cold, it's essential to wear proper winter clothing to stay comfortable during long hours on the ice.

4. The enchanting glow of candlelight at "Yuki Akari 2025 in Nishiwaga"

"Snow Light in Nishiwaga" is a winter festival held in Nishiwaga Town every early February. Snow sculptures and igloos are built across the town, with candlelit windows creating a mesmerizing dreamlike landscape.

As one of Japan’s top snowfall areas, Nishiwaga makes full use of its winter charm, transforming into a warm, glowing wonderland. The festival takes place in the evening, and around 9,000 visitors attend annually.

The 2025 event will be held on February 7, 2025 (Saturday), from 17:30 to 22:00. Make sure to plan your visit!

5. Winter river rafting can be surprisingly fun! Geibikei Gorge

While river rafting is often associated with warmer seasons, Geibikei Gorge offers a one-of-a-kind winter rafting experience. In winter, the gorge transforms into a breathtaking, ink-painting-like landscape, leaving visitors in awe.

Recognized as one of Japan’s 100 scenic locations, Geibikei is beautiful year-round, but winter scenery is an underrated treasure. Once you witness its serene, snow-covered cliffs and clear air, you'll want to return every year. A concern for many is the cold, but the boats are equipped with kotatsu (heated tables), and plastic covers keep the cold air out, making the ride warm and comfortable.

At the end of the ride, the boatman sings the traditional "Geibi Oiwake" song, adding to the cultural charm of the experience. Visitors come from across Japan to witness this stunning winter river journey.

6. Indulge in a luxurious winter train journey on the Kotatsu Train

The "Kotatsu Train" is a beloved winter tradition in Iwate, operated by Sanriku Railway. The train is outfitted with kotatsu (heated tables with blankets), allowing passengers to relax in warmth while enjoying a seafood-packed special bento and the stunning coastal scenery along the route.

The Rias coastline viewed from the train is breathtaking, resembling a traditional ink painting, and is highly popular with tourists. However, Iwate’s winter cold is notoriously harsh, often discouraging travelers. The Kotatsu Train solves this problem, offering a cozy and unforgettable journey.

Many visitors fall in love with the experience, and once you ride it, you'll want to return every winter! There's even a surprise visit from "Namomi," a traditional folklore creature similar to Namahage, which adds to the entertainment.

Enjoy a unique and warm journey through Iwate’s scenic winter landscape aboard the Kotatsu Train.

7. Discover the art of Japanese sake brewing at "Nanbu Bijin" Sake Brewery

One of the best things about winter in Japan is enjoying hot sake (atsukan), and Iwate is home to some of the country’s finest sake. One of the most popular breweries is Nanbu Bijin, where visitors can take a guided tour of the sake-making process.

A highlight of the tour is the chance to taste freshly brewed, unfiltered sake—an opportunity so rare that sake lovers travel from across Japan just for this experience. The brewery is temperature-controlled, so visitors can enjoy the tour in comfort, even in winter.

Since reservations are required, it’s best to book in advance. Tasting Nanbu Bijin sake at the source enhances the flavor, making it a must-visit for sake enthusiasts.

8. Observe the graceful swans that migrate to Takamatsu Park in winter

Takamatsu Park is famous for its cherry blossoms in spring, but in winter, the park transforms into a serene haven for migratory swans. The large pond within the park attracts swans, and at their peak, over 200 swans can be seen.

Seeing majestic swans up close is a rare experience, and Takamatsu Park is one of the best spots in Japan to do so. Visitors often enjoy a leisurely walk around the pond, taking in the elegant and peaceful scenery.

If you dress warmly, you can spend a relaxing time observing the graceful swans. The park is well-known across Japan, with many visitors returning year after year.

9. Pray for good fortune in winter by participating in a water purification ritual at Ryusendo Cave

Ryusendo Cave, one of Japan’s Three Great Limestone Caves, is a must-visit tourist spot in Iwate. Inside the cave, the temperature remains a steady 10°C year-round, making it a comfortable winter destination. The underground lakes within the cave are known for their astonishingly clear blue waters, with Lake No. 3 being the deepest at 98 meters.

The cave is home to eight underground lakes, three of which are open to the public. Exploration and research on undiscovered sections are still ongoing.

During winter, a special "Water Festival" is held, where locals offer the cave’s sacred water to the Water Gods. One of the most spectacular parts of this festival is the Water Purification Ritual, where young men dressed only in loincloths pour freezing water over themselves. The sight is so intense that even onlookers shiver from the cold!

This ritual is believed to bring good fortune, family safety, health, and business prosperity. Visitors can even participate, making it a unique way to cleanse oneself for the new year. Despite the freezing conditions, many tourists bravely take part in this powerful tradition.

After the purification, there are performances including dragon dances, festival floats, and lantern displays, making this a must-see winter event in Iwate.

If you’re looking for a life-changing experience, this is the place to be!

◎ Summary of recommended winter tourist spots in Iwate

Iwate Prefecture offers a wealth of winter attractions, each providing a unique and unforgettable experience. Embracing winter travel in Iwate will leave you both physically and emotionally warmed. So, why not venture into the cold and create cherished winter memories in Iwate?

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