盛岡城（不来方城）
Morioka Castle (Kozukata Castle)
Overview
Morioka Castle was built by Nanbu Nobunao starting in 1598 on the confluence of the Kitakami and Nakatsu rivers, taking about 20 years to complete. The Nanbu clan ruled over a vast territory spanning Iwate, Aomori, and Akita, tracing their lineage to the Kai Genji (Minamoto clan). The castle's striking granite stone walls are among the finest in Tōhoku, showcasing three different stone-laying techniques across different construction periods. The site is now Iwate Park, beloved for cherry blossoms. Morioka is also world-famous for Nanbu ironware (tetsubin iron kettles), a craft tradition tied to the domain's metalworking heritage.
Connection to Swords
The Nanbu domain was located in one of Japan's prime iron-producing regions, providing excellent material for swordsmithing. Domain swordsmiths of the Morioka school, including Ichinomiya Nagatsune, forged practical, durable blades suited to Tōhoku's harsh climate. The Nanbu metalworking tradition, refined through generations of ironware production, extended to sword fittings — Nanbu tsuba and menuki are prized for their robust, functional beauty. The clan experienced many battles through the Sengoku era, including the Kunohe Rebellion of 1591, shaping a deep culture of sword mastery. The Iwate Prefectural Museum preserves swords and fittings from the Nanbu domain.
Highlights
- Impressive granite stone walls of the honmaru and ninomaru
- Iwate Park cherry blossoms (spring)
- Ishikawa Takuboku poem monument
- Morioka City Museum of Forebears (Nanbu clan swords and armor)
- Nanbu ironware craft workshops
- Morioka's three famous noodle dishes (wanko soba, reimen, jajamen)
* Opening hours and admission fees are subject to change. Please check the official website before visiting.