Excursion Morioka hachiman shrine & nanbu ironware tour at Miyako

Discover the traditions of Morioka, the largest city in the Iwate prefecture. The tour features sake making and ironware which has been the two well-known crafts of the city.

Morioka Hachimangu Shrine

Depart from the pier by coach and drive to Morioka. Start off by paying homage to the guardian deity of city at the Morioka Hachimangu Shrine. Established by feudal lord Nanbu Shigenobu in 1680 as the guardian shrine of the then Morioka domain and its people, the shrine has been revered by the locals since, with the shrine housing 12 different deities all believed to be efficacious for different aspects of life.

Asabiraki Sake Brewery Tour, Japanese style lunch

Visit and learn about Japanese sake (rice wine) at the Asabiraki Sake Brewery established in 1871, during the Meiji Era. Take a short brewery tour and enjoy some sake samples. Morioka historically has been known for quality sake thanks to its rich production of rice and water source. The shop located in the brewery property offers a wide selection of not only the sake made at the Asabiraki brewery but also local food products related to sake.

Iwachu Nanbu Ironware Factory Museum

The Nanbu Ironware is best known for high-quality teapots which are known for its ability to maintain the temperature once heated and the rough texture of the surface preventing the content from burning out. The Iwachu Nanbu Ironware Factory Museum showcases the traditional process of the ironware as well as some contemporary productions using the traditional techniques developed over the years. See an example of Japanese craftsmanship evolving to serve the needs of everyday life in the present era. At the end of your visit you will have a chance to shop for a product which you might find functional for your everyday life as well!

Having completed your visit, return to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Morioka Hachiman Shrine, Morioka-Iwate Prefecture, Asabiraki Sake Brewery, Iwachu Nanbu Ironware Factory Museum

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking with approximately 30 steps at Morioka Hachiman Shrine, 50 steps at Asabiraki Sake Brewery. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and those who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. The lunch served during this tour includes a Japanese style set menu. For dietary restrictions please contact the on board Shore Concierge Team upon embarkation. Please be advised that special dietary requests or menu substitutions may be not be possible to accommodate in this program. As many local vendors do not accept credit cards or US dollars, Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. The tour sequence may vary. Local Tour Guides tend to have a strong accent therefore we urge flexibility.