Let’s go to Koiwai When visiting Shizukuishi! 5 recommended tourist spots where you can enjoy farm activities

Koiwai Farm is located in Shizukuishi Town, Iwate District, Iwate Prefecture. It is Japan’s largest privately-owned integrated farm and is one of Iwate Prefecture’s most iconic tourist attractions.
Because of its name, many people assume "Koiwai" is a place name, but in fact, that’s not true. The name “Koiwai” was created using the first characters of the surnames of its three co-founders at the time: Ono Yoshimasa, Iwasaki Yanosuke, and Inoue Masaru. What was once a desolate land has been transformed into a highly productive farm that supports Japan’s agriculture, forestry, and livestock industries while also becoming a renowned sightseeing destination in Iwate. Its vast area is about 9 million tsubo (roughly 29.8 million square meters), which is equivalent to approximately 640 Tokyo Domes!
In this article, we’ll introduce the attractions of the nature-rich Koiwai Farm and its surrounding highlights.

1. Koiwai Farm Makiba-en

Makiba-en is an open plaza designated as the sightseeing area of Koiwai Farm. Located in a vast natural setting with a view of Mt. Iwate right in front of you, visitors can enjoy a variety of sightseeing plans!
Approximately 300 sheep roam freely in Makiba-en, and visitors can relax at the adjacent café while watching the adorable sheep and beautiful pastures. One of the highlights is the “Koiwai Sheep Show” held on weekends and holidays. It’s a must-see performance showcasing teamwork between shepherds and herding dogs as they guide sheep through narrow gates and herd them into pens.
You can also try horseback riding—an attendant will assist you, so even beginners can ride with ease.
Other recommended experiences include the “Trolley Carriage” that runs along old railway tracks and the “Kamimaru Barn Moo Moo Liner,” which goes back and forth between Makiba-en and Kamimaru Barn. The Moo Moo Liner runs on exclusive paths not accessible by foot, offering breathtaking views that can only be enjoyed from the ride.
There’s also a rich selection of activities such as golf, archery, trampolines, and the unique “armadillo ball.” Taking a leisurely stroll along the walking path from Makiba-en to Kamimaru Barn is another lovely option. Choose your favorite sightseeing plan and enjoy all that Koiwai Farm Makiba-en has to offer!

2. Koiwai Farm Kamimaru Barn Complex

Across the road from Makiba-en lies the Kamimaru Barn Complex of Koiwai Farm. These historical buildings—including warehouses, barns, and silos—were built from the late Meiji period to the early Showa period, and most are still in active use. Designated as Important Cultural Properties, the 21-building complex is considered a “living cultural asset.”
These structures notably feature Western-style architecture, which was rare in Japan at the time. The Koiwai Farm Head Office, with its porch entrance, was even described by poet Kenji Miyazawa as “the pretentious head office building...” Miyazawa was fond of the scenery at Koiwai Farm and chose it as the setting for several of his later works. A monument engraved with a famous line from his poetry can be found near the back of the barn—well worth a visit.
Because most of these designated buildings are still in use, sightseeing access is limited. To explore, join a guided tour. Several sightseeing options are available, including bus and walking tours. Be sure to enjoy the picturesque blend of European-style architecture and the surrounding landscape.

3. Koiwai Farm’s Lone Cherry Tree

Located about 1.5 km from the entrance of Makiba-en, this single cherry tree (species: Edohigan) was planted around the 1900s in the Meiji era. With the majestic Mt. Iwate in the background, the solitary cherry tree standing tall in Koiwai’s lush green pasture is known for its stunning beauty. If you’re visiting Koiwai in spring, how about enjoying some cherry blossom viewing?
This pasture was once a grazing field for cows, and the cherry tree was planted as a “shade tree” to protect the cattle from the strong summer sun, since cows are sensitive to heat. Today, the area is used for growing pasture grass as livestock feed.
There’s also a cherry blossom row near the Kamimaru Barn, which is also worth visiting. Because Koiwai Farm is in northern Japan, cherry blossoms typically bloom, peak, and start falling during Golden Week. However, timing can vary with weather and temperature, so be sure to check the bloom forecast when planning your visit.

4. Koiwai Winter Illumination

Koiwai Farm is also a fantastic destination in winter. From mid-November through the New Year, it hosts the “Milky Way Farm Night” illumination event. With about 1.2 million light bulbs, it’s one of the largest illumination events not only in Iwate but in all of Tohoku.
A standout feature is the “Tunnel of Light,” filled with vibrant colors and mesmerizing views. Other attractions include a 20-meter tall “giant Christmas tree” made from real fir trees and the “Galaxy Railroad SL” illumination modeled after a fantasy train. These displays span the vast land of Koiwai Farm, creating a magical world.
Shops and restaurants remain open during the illumination, so you can warm up with delicious Koiwai Farm food. Bundle up and come experience the star-filled sky and dazzling winter lights.

5. Koiwai Dairy Koiwai Factory

A recommended sightseeing spot is the Koiwai Dairy factory. Located just a 5-minute drive from the Makiba-en parking area, the factory’s Nordic-style buildings blend beautifully with the surrounding nature. You can tour the factory freely without reservations, so step inside and explore the interior in addition to admiring the scenery.
Through observation windows along the tour path, you can watch the bottling and packaging of milk as well as the production of cultured butter. It’s fascinating to witness how the dairy products we consume daily are made. After learning all about Koiwai Dairy at your own pace, enjoy a sample of fresh milk!
The on-site store also sells Koiwai products like cheese and cookies. Some items are exclusive to Koiwai Farm, making them great souvenirs. This is a fantastic spot to deepen your understanding of dairy products while enjoying a unique sightseeing experience.

◎ Summary

We’ve introduced you to the charming tourist spots of Koiwai Farm and its surroundings in Iwate Prefecture.
Whether it’s being soothed by the stunning natural landscapes, feeling the historical aura of Western-style buildings, or gaining insight into familiar dairy products, Koiwai Farm offers a wide range of sightseeing options. Within the farm, you’ll also find restaurants and shops where you can enjoy local specialties like Genghis Khan (grilled lamb) and soft serve ice cream made with farm-fresh milk.
From cherry blossoms in spring to illuminations in winter, Koiwai Farm is full of highlights throughout the year. Be sure to visit and enjoy a fulfilling time!

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Let’s go to Koiwai When visiting Shizukuishi! 5 recommended tourist spots where you can enjoy farm activities