6 Must-Try Experience Spots You Should Visit in Iwate

There are surely many people who want to try unique experiences that can only be done in Iwate when they visit. Experiencing something exclusive to the area creates great travel memories, and finding such spots makes planning your trip easier. To help you make lasting memories, here are 6 must-visit experience spots in Iwate that you should check out at least once.

1. "Urumi Craft" - Enjoy Lacquer Painting

"Urumi Craft" located in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, is a hands-on experience spot where you can try lacquer painting. Many people think of lacquerware as expensive and might assume that painting it is impossible. However, Urumi Craft is exactly the place where you can enjoy this special experience.
Some might worry that touching lacquer could cause skin irritation, especially for families who want to experience this with children. But don't worry—Urumi Craft uses synthetic lacquer, which is safe and prevents skin irritation. You can enjoy painting with peace of mind.
If you make a reservation in advance, you can also tour the workshop. Since opportunities to actually try lacquer painting are rare, why not visit Urumi Craft as a memorable experience during your trip to Iwate?

2. "Mori no Kuni" Glass Workshop - A Variety of Experiences

Located in Hanamaki City, Iwate Prefecture, "Mori no Kuni" Glass Experience Workshop is a great spot to visit with family. One of its main features is the wide variety of activities you can try. Having many options allows everyone—from children to parents—to choose something they enjoy.
Note that the last admission for experiences is until 4:00 PM. Since the workshop is located in the forest, make sure to check the time if you're using public transportation.
With so many fun activities, Mori no Kuni is highly recommended for creating memories during your trip to Iwate. If you’re planning to visit, be sure to stop by this workshop.

3. "Kuji Amber Museum" - Experience Amber Mining

When visiting Iwate, taking home a souvenir that lasts long is a wonderful way to remember your trip. At the Kuji Amber Museum, you can mine your own piece of amber—a unique souvenir from Iwate. Kuji City is one of Japan's leading amber production areas, and here, you can actually dig up amber yourself.
The amber you dig up becomes a lasting memory, allowing you to forever remember your experience in Kuji City. If you're planning to visit Kuji City or nearby areas, why not stop by to see various ambers and try mining some yourself? The Kuji Amber Museum is a spot where both children and adults can have fun.

4. "Morioka Handicraft Village" - Experience Traditional Weaving

Morioka Handicraft Village in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, is a must-visit spot, especially if you're traveling with children. Here, you can try "Saki-Ori" weaving, along with various other traditional crafts like pottery, bamboo crafts, and indigo dyeing.
There are many activities to choose from, and each is guided by skilled instructors who carefully teach the process, so even beginners can feel at ease. The village is packed with so many experiences that even a full day may not be enough to try them all.
You can also try baking rice crackers or making steamed buns—activities that children will find fun and engaging. Morioka Handicraft Village is especially recommended for families planning a trip to Iwate Prefecture. If you're considering visiting Iwate, make sure to stop by!

5. "Kenmin no Mori Woodcraft Center" - Enjoy Woodworking with Kids

Located in Hachimantai City, Iwate Prefecture, the Kenmin no Mori Woodcraft Center is a hands-on spot perfect for families. Iwate is rich in forest areas and timber, making its woodcrafts quite famous. This center lets you enjoy creating various wooden crafts using local materials.
Surrounded by vast nature, you can enjoy sightseeing while experiencing woodcraft. The center also offers activities using easy-to-handle materials like pine cones and acorns, making it safe and enjoyable even for children.
All necessary tools are provided, so you can visit empty-handed and still enjoy the experience. Combining nature appreciation and crafting, this spot is perfect for creating lasting memories of Iwate. It’s a place where you can enjoy both sightseeing and hands-on experiences in one visit.

6. "Tonbodama Workshop" - Create Your Own Unique Strap

The Tonbodama Workshop in Ichinoseki City, Iwate Prefecture, is a place where you can create "Tonbodama" (glass beads). These handcrafted glass beads are decorated with colored glass patterns and are just the right size for making straps. Since large souvenirs can be hard to carry around, making your own tonbodama as a souvenir is a great idea—small, portable, and uniquely yours.
At the Tonbodama Workshop, you can make three tonbodama beads and choose your favorite one to turn into a strap. The charm of creating a one-of-a-kind strap is priceless, and it’s a special memory you can keep forever. If you’re visiting Iwate, don’t miss the chance to stop by this workshop. Note that the workshop is irregularly closed, so it’s best to call ahead before visiting.

◎ Summary

Here are 6 experience spots in Iwate that will surely create lasting memories from your trip. Everyone wants to bring home memories that can be treasured forever! Each of these spots allows you to create souvenirs you can physically take home and enjoy with your family. When visiting Iwate Prefecture, why not tour these places and make your trip even more memorable?

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6 Must-Try Experience Spots You Should Visit in Iwate