Category:Iwate Prefecture

Iwate Prefecture is located in the **Tōhoku region** of northern Honshū, facing the Pacific Ocean and shaped by its expansive forests, mountains, and coastline. The prefecture is known for its quiet rural landscapes, distinctive seasonal climate, and strong cultural traditions that reflect a close relationship with the natural environment.

The capital, Morioka, developed as a castle town and cultural center, while the coastal regions have long histories of fishing and maritime exchange. Inland temple complexes such as Chūson-ji in Hiraizumi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, attest to Iwate’s historic role as a center of Buddhism and cultural refinement during the Heian period.

Culturally, Iwate is associated with **crafts that emphasize durability, warmth, and understated beauty**. Local materials such as iron, lacquer, and wood form the basis of traditional workshops, many of which continue to thrive today. The prefecture’s crafts often balance functional design with natural texture and careful handwork.

Signature Crafts of Iwate Prefecture

• Nambu cast ironware (南部鉄器) – traditional iron kettles and household vessels, valued for heat retention and refined form.
• Jōbōji lacquerware (浄法寺漆器) – lacquerware made using locally harvested lacquer sap, known for natural finishes and durability.
• Morioka woodworking – wooden utensils and daily-use wares shaped with simple, elegant forms.
• Handcrafted textiles – including weaving and sashiko traditions tied to rural life and seasonal clothing.