Introducing Instagram-Worthy Photos from Iwate Prefecture
The idyllic landscapes of “Koiwai Farm,” a representative tourist spot in Iwate Prefecture, are popular as a healing space that makes you forget your daily life. It’s perfect for creating memories, whether interacting with animals or tasting soft-serve ice cream. Especially noteworthy is the “Koiwai Farm’s Lone Cherry Tree,” standing majestically against the backdrop of the snow-capped Mt. Iwate. This beautiful scene, a spring tradition that attracts many tourists annually, offers stunning contrast with the blue sky, allowing you to capture breathtaking photos.
A must-see in the inland area is the fantastical underground lake of “Ryusendo,” one of Japan’s three great limestone caves. The illuminated cave and the crystal-clear blue lake create a mysterious and moving scene. You can take extraordinary photos that make you feel as if you’ve wandered into another world.
On the coast, “Jodogahama” is a scenic spot where the contrast between the white rocky shore, green pines, and blue sea is breathtaking. Its beauty truly deserves the name “Paradise Pure Land.” The view from the sightseeing boat is also exceptional, offering the opportunity for spectacular landscape photography.
Lastly, the “Chuson-ji Konjikido” in Hiraizumi is a luxurious and resplendent golden hall registered as a World Heritage site. This precious structure, conveying the aesthetic sense of the Heian period, is well worth seeing. You can capture solemn photos that evoke a sense of history.
Visit these charming spots to create the best memories and Instagram-worthy photos.
Koiwai Farm
Koiwai Farm is Japan’s largest private comprehensive farm, located in Iwate Prefecture. The vast 3,000-hectare site includes facilities for raising dairy cows and manufacturing yogurt, cheese, and butter. In the “Makiba-en” tourist area, you can enjoy nature experiences, interact with animals, savor gourmet food, and shop. Especially recommended are the fresh “Koiwai Milk” and “Koiwai Farm Soft-Serve Ice Cream,” with a rich flavor yet refreshing aftertaste, perfect for a break after strolling.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All Seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: Limited public transportation, convenient by car
Koiwai Farm’s Lone Cherry Tree
Koiwai Farm offers a vast nature experience, where you can enjoy yogurt and soft-serve ice cream made on the farm. With opportunities for animal interaction and various activities, it’s especially recommended for families with children. Around early May, you can see the “Lone Cherry Tree of Koiwai Farm,” located 1.5 km from Makiba-en, offering a beautiful cherry blossom view against the backdrop of Mt. Iwate.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: Early May
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: Limited public transportation, convenient by car
Ryusendo
The “Blue Pond of Ryusendo” is famous for its mystical blue color, enchanting visitors. The spacious cave features narrow corridors and numerous stalactites and stalagmites that unfold like natural artworks. The cave extends about 3,000 meters, of which about 700 meters are open to the public. The temperature inside Ryusendo remains around 10 degrees Celsius year-round, making it cool in summer and warm in winter, attracting many visitors regardless of the season.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All Seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: Limited public transportation, convenient by car
Jodogahama
The white rocks of Jodogahama were formed by rhyolite from magma activity about 44 million years ago, containing high silica dioxide content, which gives them their white color. You can also observe “flow structures” showing the flow pattern of magma and “joints” formed by rapid cooling of magma. From April 1 to October 31, roads within Jodogahama Park are restricted to general vehicles, with shuttle buses operating on weekends and holidays during this period.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All Seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: Vehicle restrictions, use public transportation
Chuson-ji Konjikido
Chuson-ji, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2011, is the oldest building conveying the appearance of Hiraizumi when it was the political center of the Tohoku region in the 12th century. The temple was founded by Jikaku Daishi in 850 and rebuilt by Fujiwara no Kiyohira in the early 12th century to pray for the souls of those who died in wars and for everlasting peace. In autumn, the path from Daicho-do to Konjikido and the area around Kyozo are splendidly adorned with Iroha and Yamamomiji maples, with peak foliage from late October to mid-November. Note: Photography inside Konjikido is prohibited.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: Late October to Mid-November
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: Limited public transportation, convenient by car
