This facility introduces notable figures associated with Morioka. Inside, there is the 'Inazo Nitobe Memorial Room,' which showcases the life and achievements of Inazo Nitobe, who dedicated himself to international exchange and famously said, "I wish to be a bridge across the Pacific." In this memorial room, we will hear from Shigeru Fujii, Chairman of the Inazo Nitobe Foundation, who researches Nitobe's legacy.

In addition to exploring the roots of BUSHIDO, as shaped by Nitobe—who was born into a Morioka (Nanbu) clan family and raised with a samurai education—you will also hear rare stories, such as his childhood reputation as a 'mischievous troublemaker.'

Located near Morioka Castle Ruins Park, at the foot of Shimonohashi Bridge is the 'Birthplace of Inazo Nitobe.' This area was once called "Takajokoji" Street and was lined with the residences of middle and lower class samurai. The Nitobe family home was located there, and Inazo was born and raised in this area until he moved to Tokyo at the age of nine.
The site has been beautifully maintained and toward the back stands a bronze statue of Inazo Nitobe, erected 50 years after his death with donations from local citizens.

Take a stroll along the Nakatsugawa River from Nitobe's birthplace to the Morioka City Hall, accompanied by a guide. This walking path is called ”Victoria Road,” maintained in honor of the friendship with Victoria, Canada, where Nitobe spent his final days. Nearby, you will find a totem pole, lamp posts, and fabric murals gifted by Victoria City.
You will also get a chance to visit notable landmarks such as the 'Bank of Iwate Red Brick Building,' which is one of Morioka's most iconic sights, as well as enjoying Morioka's history and nature.

In his book BUSHIDO, Nitobe referred to Zen as "a realm of thought beyond the range of verbal expression." On this tour, you will experience Zen meditation, one of the fundamental practices of Zen, at Kyushoji Temple, where Inazo Nitobe’s father, Jyujiro, and other members of the Nitobe family rest in peace.

Kyushoji Temple does not normally offer Zen meditation experience to the public, making this a special program exclusive to this tour.

To conclude the tour, let’s savor traditional Japanese cuisine, 'washoku.' Our destination is Tsukumogusa, located in the Nakanohashi-dori area, known for its historical buildings. This sister restaurant, adjacent to the long-established Azumaya, which was founded in 1907, continues to uphold the techniques and flavors of Morioka’s renowned dining tradition while offering a fresh allure of washoku.

Washoku, nurtured by the Japanse respect for nature, has been recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The delicious and beautiful washoku you’ll enjoy in the nature-rich area of Morioka, Iwate, will surely become an unforgettable part of your journey.