Hotels in Morioka

Morioka: Where History Meets Nature's Embrace

Discover the enchanting charm of Morioka, nestled in Iwate Prefecture, Japan. This captivating city seamlessly blends rich history with natural beauty, featuring the iconic Morioka Castle ruins and the serene Sakurayama Shrine. Stroll through lush gardens and explore fascinating museums that showcase the region’s cultural heritage. Nature lovers will revel in the nearby parks, where stunning landscapes invite hiking and relaxation. With its warm hospitality and off-the-beaten-path allure, Morioka offers a unique glimpse into Japan's heart, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. For the best hotel rates in Morioka, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Morioka

Some of the best places to stay in Morioka are Hachimantai, Hanamaki and Shizukuishi. Hachimantai, Hanamaki, and Shizukuishi offer unique experiences in Iwate Prefecture. Hachimantai is ideal for nature lovers with its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, while Hanamaki is known for its hot springs and cultural sites, making it great for relaxation. Shizukuishi is perfect for skiing enthusiasts. Accommodation options range from traditional ryokans to modern hotels, catering to various budgets. For first-time visitors, Hanamaki is recommended for its blend of culture and relaxation. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Morioka:

1. HachimantaiOpens in a new window: Hachimantai is an ideal destination for ski enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers, featuring stunning natural landscapes and recreational activities. Notable attractions include Appi Kogen Ski Resort and the breathtaking Hachimantai Dragon Eye lookout, perfect for romance and adventure seekers. For accommodations, consider Intercontinental Appi Kogen Resort, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star property that offers a hot spring experience and is well-suited for those wanting to ski or golf. Another option is Hachimantai Mountain HotelOpens in a new window, also 3.5 stars, which provides adventure sports and a natural hot spring, making it a great choice for thrill-seekers. Finally, Active Resorts Iwate HachimantaiOpens in a new window, a similar 3.5-star hotel, offers excellent hot spring amenities and convenient access to ski lifts, ensuring a comfortable stay after a day on the slopes.
2. HanamakiOpens in a new window: Hanamaki is a culturally rich area perfect for family outings and relaxation. Key attractions include the Namari Onsen Ski Resort and Miyazawa Kenji Fairy Tales Village, which celebrate local culture and nature. For lodging, Namari Onsen Kokoronotoki JusangatsuOpens in a new window stands out as a 4.0-star hotel that combines business amenities with a hot spring experience, ideal for travelers combining work and leisure. Another great option is Hanamaki Onsen KashoenOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star ryokan that focuses on spa services and relaxation, featuring a full spa and various treatments. Lastly, YamaYuri No YadoOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star ryokan, offers a traditional hot spring experience, making it a cozy retreat for visitors looking to unwind.
3. ShizukuishiOpens in a new window: Shizukuishi is perfect for visitors seeking both ski adventures and family-friendly activities. With attractions like Shizukuishi Ski Place and Lake Gosho Park Family Land, there's something for everyone. For accommodations, Shizukuishi Prince HotelOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel featuring hot springs and adventure sports, making it a fantastic choice for active travelers. Consider Hotel Morinokaze OusyukuOpens in a new window, also 3.5 stars, which offers a full-service spa for those looking to relax after a day of skiing. Lastly, Kyukamura Iwate-AmiharionsenOpens in a new window, another 3.5-star option, provides dining and entertainment, making it a well-rounded choice for families and groups.

Things to do in Morioka for first time

A three-day visit to Morioka offers travelers a chance to immerse themselves in stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and tranquil lakes. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and boating, and experience vibrant local festivals or seasonal ice and roller skating, making it an unforgettable destination for adventure and culture. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Morioka:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Morioka by visiting the majestic Mt. Iwate, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and explore the surrounding nature. Afterward, make your way to the Matsuo Mine Museum, where you can learn about the region's rich mining history and see fascinating exhibits. Conclude your day with a visit to the Kamibo Makino Cherry Tree, a beautiful spot perfect for photography and a peaceful stroll, especially during cherry blossom season.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Lake Gosho Vehicle Park, where you can engage in outdoor activities or simply enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake. Following that, head to Mount Akita-Komagatake for a day of hiking and exploring stunning landscapes. After a fulfilling hike, unwind at Nyūtō Onsen, famous for its relaxing hot springs and traditional ryokan accommodations, providing a perfect way to rejuvenate after an adventurous day.
• Day 3: Begin your day by exploring the unique Yakehashiri Lava Flow, where you can witness the geological wonders of past volcanic activity. Next, visit Gozaishonuma Akanuma, a serene area perfect for nature lovers, where you can appreciate the natural beauty and possibly catch sight of local wildlife. Wrap up your itinerary with the stunning Hachimantai Dragon Eye, a remarkable sight that resembles a dragon's eye from above, offering a memorable end to your Morioka experience.

5 tips to find a great Morioka hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable months to visit Morioka are June, November, and December, as hotel prices tend to be lower during this time. For international travelers, booking your flight at least six months in advance can help you snag better prices. To truly appreciate the city’s highlights, a stay of at least 1-2 days is recommended. Morioka offers great value for budget-friendly travelers with its impressive attractions, including museums, monuments, and beautiful parks.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Morioka, you might find some great offers on Hotels.com. To uncover these savings, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could discover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you capitalize on opportunities for savings while enjoying options like refundable bookings and price guarantees.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the season. So, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Morioka.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. To find more affordable options, consider hotels in neighborhoods that are a bit farther from the center, while still weighing the balance between cost and accessibility to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Morioka. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Morioka

Here are a few top-recommended restaurants in Morioka, Iwate Prefecture, Japan:

• 白龍本店: A celebrated establishment in Morioka, known for its authentic ramen that blends traditional techniques with local ingredients, offering a savory experience that captures the essence of Iwate’s culinary heritage.
• 一風堂: This popular chain has made a name for itself in Morioka by serving innovative ramen dishes that respect Japanese traditions while introducing unique flavors, ensuring a delightful fusion of taste and creativity.
• カレー工房チャルテン: A standout for curry enthusiasts, this restaurant showcases a variety of Japanese curry options, each crafted with locally sourced vegetables and spices, highlighting the region's agricultural bounty in every dish.

Best time to go to Morioka

Morioka experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 24.3°F (-4.3°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 72.0°F (22.2°C). July is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Morioka, April, August, and October are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, March, June, and September are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.