Let’s be healed by the magnificent nature that Iwate is proud of! 4 Recommended Power Spots in Iwate Prefecture

When we think of “power spots,” we often imagine famous old temples and shrines — and naturally, Iwate Prefecture has many such sacred places. However, objects of worship are not limited to deities like Kannon or Buddha; the earth, mountains, sky, lakes, and nature itself have also long been revered.
This time, rather than focusing on renowned temples, we’d like to carefully select and introduce 4 power spots in Iwate Prefecture where you can feel the mysterious energy of nature.

1. Japan’s Only Special Natural Monument! The Wisdom Power Spot “Nesori’s Giant Petrified Tree”

Have you heard of “petrified wood”? Put simply, it’s a “fossilized tree.” In Ichinohe Town, Ninohe District, Iwate Prefecture, there is a massive piece of petrified wood that is 1.8 meters in diameter and stands 6 meters tall just in its remaining portion. Called “Nesori no Dai Keikaboku” (Nesori’s Giant Petrified Tree), it takes its name from the place “Nesori.” It is a fossilized sequoia, a species that no longer grows in Japan, buried underground and mineralized by silica-rich groundwater.
Petrified wood has been found in various parts of Japan, and six of these discoveries have been designated as national natural monuments. Among them, the “Nesori no Dai Keikaboku” is the largest and has been designated as a Special Natural Monument. It is said to be imbued with ancient wisdom and is considered one of Iwate’s leading “wisdom power spots.”

2. A Take-Home Power Spot for Good Fortune: The Mysterious Blue “Underground Lake of Ryusendo”

One of Japan’s three great limestone caves, “Ryusendo” in Iwate Prefecture is also a popular power spot. While Ryusendo itself is a well-known tourist destination, the true power spot is the underground lake within the cave. Its mysteriously pure, endlessly blue water is called “Dragon Blue” and is among the clearest in the world. This clarity comes from groundwater that wells up from deep underground and is filtered through subterranean humus.
This water is said to enhance your luck in work, love, and competitions. You can even take some of the water home as a souvenir — a big part of its appeal, since the benefits can continue at home.
In the same Iwaizumi Town, there’s another cave called “Akka-do,” which is Japan’s longest cave at approximately 23,702 meters. Despite that, Ryusendo garners more national attention and is considered one of the top three limestone caves in Japan, thanks to the mystical power of this underground lake.

3. A Power Spot for Health Luck! The Largest Giant Cedar in Iwate: “Hakusan Sugi”

While cedar trees might be a nuisance during pollen season, they are actually a native species unique to Japan. Cedar trees have long been part of Japanese life, with reforestation efforts actively promoted. Iwate Prefecture has many cedar-covered mountains and forests, and among them, ancient or giant trees are often revered and worshiped as sacred.
“Hakusan Sugi” in Ohasama Town, Hanamaki City, is one such tree. It has stood strong for over 900 years, enduring storms and weather, making it a cherished power spot for health and victory luck. The tree’s trunk has a girth of about 11.5 meters and reaches approximately 50 meters in height. Beneath the massive tree stands a humble shrine to Hakusan Shrine, with the cedar serving as its sacred tree.
There is a local legend that the Hakusan Sugi houses the “Kasakko (smallpox) god,” and oddly enough, making and dedicating a cradle to the tree is said to cure smallpox. This legend may be where its power for health originates.

4. The Sacred Giant Stone of “Arahahabaki Okami” Standing in the Holy Mountain of Tannaiyama Shrine

Nestled in the mountains of Hanamaki City, Iwate Prefecture, “Tannaiyama Shrine” was founded during the Heian period by Nichiko, a disciple of Kobo Daishi, who enshrined Fudo Myo-o there. Many historical figures, including the Mononobe and Fujiwara clans, have worshiped at this revered shrine.
Though the shrine is known as one of Iwate’s Seven Wonders power spots, the most powerful location isn’t in the main grounds but rather behind the main hall, deep within the trees.
There, you’ll find the “Giant Stone of Arahahabaki Okami,” a sacred rock that has served as a divine object since the shrine’s founding 1,300 years ago. Measuring 11.6m wide × 9.3m deep × 4.55m tall, this stone seems as if a god is seated firmly in the sacred mountain. Leaning against it is a smaller stone, and legend has it that if you can pass between the two stones without touching them, any wish you make will come true — making this a powerful spot for wish fulfillment.

◎Summary

What did you think of the natural power spots in Iwate Prefecture? Whether or not you believe that stones, trees, and water hold mysterious powers is up to you. But as the old saying goes, “Those who believe shall be saved.” Why not keep an open mind and enjoy these places while sightseeing?
Besides these natural power spots, Iwate is home to many famous temples and shrines known for their blessings, such as Chuson-ji with its famous Konjikido (Golden Hall), as well as Motsu-ji and Sakurayama Shrine. Many areas still bear the scars of the earthquake, and even renowned temples have suffered damage. Visiting these power spots may also help support the region’s recovery. In exchange for receiving blessings, let’s bring strength back to Iwate.