Things To Do
in Mizusawa
Mizusawa sits along the Kitakami River in Iwate Prefecture, a town where rural scenery meets regional flavors. The area is renowned for Mizusawa udon, a chewy, comforting noodle that anchors many local eateries. It maintains a laid-back pace with traditional shrines, riverside walks, and friendly locals.
Visitors can easily combine food, nature, and culture in a compact, authentic North Tohoku experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Mizusawa Historic Village, where traditional Japanese architecture and preserved buildings offer a glimpse into the past. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, admiring the intricate wooden structures adorned with beautiful gardens. Enjoy a light breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh pastries and matcha tea to energize your morning.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Mizusawa-dera Temple, an ancient site that showcases stunning Buddhist architecture. Participate in a meditation session led by a monk, allowing for a moment of reflection and tranquility. Afterward, enjoy a traditional kaiseki lunch at a nearby restaurant, where each dish is a work of art.
As the sun sets, make your way to the local izakaya for an authentic taste of Japanese cuisine, indulging in grilled skewers and sake. Engage in friendly conversations with the locals, who are eager to share stories about Mizusawa's history and culture. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk along the Mizusawa River, taking in the serene atmosphere and the reflection of the night sky.
Kick off your day by participating in a pottery workshop where skilled artisans guide you through the process of creating your own ceramic piece. Feel the clay between your fingers as you learn traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. Enjoy a light breakfast featuring local rice balls and miso soup, fueling your creativity for the day ahead.
In the afternoon, head to a nearby textile workshop to explore the art of indigo dyeing, a craft deeply rooted in the region. Follow the meticulous steps of the dyeing process, and take home a beautifully crafted scarf as a memento of your experience. Afterwards, savor a delightful lunch at a café that specializes in dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
As evening approaches, attend a local festival if available, where you can witness traditional performances, music, and dance. Engage with the community, joining in the festivities and trying various street food delicacies. Wrap up the night by enjoying a quiet moment at a local shrine, appreciating the harmony and peace that envelops the area.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🧺Groceries (monthly) | $180-320 |
| 🚍One-way public transit ticket | $1.50-3 |
| 🏨Hotel night (budget) | $40-90 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, safe town with authentic regional cuisine
- Accessible base for nature and culture in North Tohoku
- Limited nightlife and major-city attractions
- Longer travel times from large urban centers
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "お願いします" - Please
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "いくらですか" - How much is this?
- "トイレはどこですか" - Where is the restroom?
Places to Visit in Mizusawa
Visit one of these nice places.
Long exposure shots of the river with the town skyline and reflections at dawn.
Geometric lines, trains arriving and departing; ideal for symmetry and motion shots.
Blossoms and willow trees along the Kitakami River create soft, pastel scenes.
Panoramic mountain and plateau vistas, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Mizusawa
Mizusawa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick, chewy udon served hot in a delicate broth; a regional specialty best enjoyed at a shop near Mizusawa Station.
Must-Try!
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, mochi, grilled fish, and quick bites near the station area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Remove shoes when entering homes, certain traditional inns (ryokan), and some temples.
Speak softly on trains and buses; be punctual in queues and respect personal space.
Safety
Tipping in Mizusawa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected as standard. If you wish to acknowledge service in a formal setting, use a small envelope.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are common in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. Some small shops may be cash-only; mobile wallets and IC cards are increasingly available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional rain; pack a light jacket for evenings and sunscreen for daytime sightseeing.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for hikes and street photography.
Cold with heavy snowfall; wear warm layers, waterproof boots, and be prepared for snowy roads.
Cool and fresh with budding trees; pleasant walking weather and abundant blossoms.
Mizusawa at Night
Hiking in Mizusawa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Alpine loop trails with expansive views, open in summer and fall.
Challenging day hikes with panoramic views; best attempted with a guided day.
Airports
How to reach Mizusawa by plane.
Iwate’s regional airport offering domestic flights; roughly 1.5-2.5 hours by road or rail from Mizusawa.
Major international hub with numerous domestic links; typically reachable by shinkansen and local transit onward.
Regional airport with domestic connections; further by road or rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Rural towns in Japan tend to have an older demographic profile.
Local schools and family-oriented neighborhoods contribute to a steady flow of residents and visitors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at schools; local leagues and community games are common on weekends.
Winter sports widely enjoyed at nearby resorts; season typically December–March.
Played at schools and local clubs; matches can be a community gathering.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mizusawa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist at larger eateries; look for tofu dishes and vegetable tempura; many dishes may include dashi, so ask for a vegetarian broth when possible.