Top 5 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Iwadeyama, Where the Young Date Masamune Spent His Early Years!

If you're planning a trip to Tohoku, be sure to visit Iwadeyama, a town rich in history and deeply connected to the legendary samurai lord, Date Masamune. Strolling through its streets, you can feel the echoes of the past while exploring fascinating cultural and artistic spots. A visit to the intriguing Kankaku Museum (Sensory Museum) offers a unique artistic experience, while the beautiful gardens of the Former Yubikan provide a glimpse into Japan’s samurai-era elegance. From historical landmarks to immersive art attractions, Iwadeyama is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Today, let’s explore this charming castle town in northwestern Miyagi Prefecture!

Iwadeyama Castle Ruins & Date Masamune Statue

Iwadeyama Castle, originally known as Iwatesawa Castle, was a strategically important fortress located at the intersection of the North Uzen Highway and Ugo Highway. It was built during the Ōei era by Ujiie Naozane, a retainer of the Ōsaki clan.

Following the fall of the Ōsaki clan, Iwadeyama Castle became the residence of the famous samurai warlord Date Masamune around 1591. Later, when Tokugawa Ieyasu entered the castle, he ordered its name to be changed to Iwadeyama Castle—a historical fact that makes this site a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Although a major fire in 1876 destroyed much of the structure, the honmaru (main enclosure) ruins have been transformed into a park. Visitors can still see remnants of the earthen embankments and stone walls, offering a glimpse into the castle’s past. Don't miss the statue of Date Masamune, which was relocated here from Sendai Castle, depicting him in plain attire—a unique sight for samurai history lovers.

【Former Yubikan and Garden】

The "Yubikan" is Japan's oldest surviving academic institution, recognized as a national historic site. It is a must-visit landmark where you can step back in time and experience Edo-period education. During the Edo era, the retainers' children of the Date Clan studied here, making it a historically significant place.
One of the highlights is the "Gokaisho" and its adjoining rooms, where visitors can get a glimpse of the educational practices of the past. It is said that even the head of the Date Clan attended lectures in this hall.

A visit to the Former Yubikan wouldn’t be complete without exploring its stunning garden. This beautifully landscaped area is a favorite among tourists and offers a serene atmosphere for a relaxing stroll.

In summer, the "Yubikan Festival" takes place, featuring concerts, tea ceremonies, and an enchanting nighttime illumination of the garden, creating a magical experience for visitors.

Additionally, every April, local high school brass bands perform concerts, and tea ceremony clubs hold open-air tea gatherings, adding a cultural touch to this historic landmark. This event is beloved by both locals and visitors alike.

【Kankaku Museum (Sensory Museum)】

The Kankaku Museum is Japan’s first museum dedicated to exploring human senses, including sight, hearing, smell, and touch. It is an immersive space where visitors of all ages can enhance their imagination through unique sensory experiences.

Divided into two main areas—the "Dialogue Zone" (Physical Sensory Space) and the "Monologue Zone" (Meditation Space)—this museum offers interactive exhibits that encourage visitors to become more aware of their own senses through various stimuli.

Attractions such as "Creative Instruments," "Fragrance Forest," and "1000 Small Boxes" spark curiosity just by their names, making the museum an exciting and engaging place to explore. To fully enjoy its interactive displays, we recommend setting aside ample time for your visit.

Takekogei-kan (Bamboo Craft Museum)

Takekogei-kan is a must-visit spot in Iwadeyama, famous for its traditional Shino bamboo craft. This intricate weaving technique has a history of over 300 years, dating back to the Edo period when skilled artisans were invited from Kyoto to train local samurai as a side profession.

What makes Shino bamboo craft unique is that only bamboo skin is used, carefully woven with the outer layer facing inward. This technique results in a smooth texture that is gentle to the touch and excellent for water drainage, making these crafts perfect for daily use.

At the Takekogei-kan, visitors can watch live demonstrations of bamboo weaving and even participate in hands-on workshops (reservation required). The museum also features a variety of beautifully crafted bamboo products and home decor, offering a deep appreciation of this time-honored tradition.

Chubachi Museum

For history and Japanese sword enthusiasts, the Chubachi Museum is a must-visit destination in Osaki City, Miyagi. The museum houses an extensive collection of Japanese swords, featuring legendary blades that have been admired as both weapons and works of art.

Japanese swords, known for their unparalleled craftsmanship, have captivated audiences worldwide. In recent years, there has been a growing number of female sword enthusiasts, drawn by the beauty, precision, and history behind these remarkable blades.

The Chubachi Museum proudly exhibits Oshu swords, crafted by renowned blacksmiths from the Oshu region. These swords were made from high-quality materials and were inspired by Jodo Buddhist principles, symbolizing strength and spirituality.

One of the highlights is the exhibition of famous swords, including the Masamune blade, a legendary masterpiece of Japanese swordsmithing. Other remarkable swords on display include Munemitsu, Kunimura, and Masatsune, along with National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. Visitors can admire each sword’s unique details and historical significance.

◎ Elegant Travel on the JR Limited Express "Resort Minori"

For a smooth and scenic journey to Iwadeyama, the JR Limited Express "Resort Minori" is highly recommended. Many tourist attractions are concentrated around Yubikan Station, and since the train departs directly from JR Sendai Station, there is no need to transfer, making it an easy and convenient option.

Along the way, passengers can enjoy breathtaking views, making this train especially popular among tourists. If you're visiting the area, it's an experience you won't want to miss—perfect for enhancing your travel excitement!

To board, you’ll need both a basic fare ticket and a limited express ticket. Since all seats require reservations and the train operates once daily in each direction on weekends, it’s best to plan your trip early.

Search

Customer Support

Top 5 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Iwadeyama, Where the Young Date Masamune Spent His Early Years!