Bus2Train

Hanamaki to Hiraizumi

Updated: March 14, 2024 09:13 AM
Hiraizumi

Hanamaki + Hiraizumi

Hanamaki and Hiraizumi are two cities in Iwate Prefecture, Japan. Hanamaki is the larger city of the two, with a population of about 100,000 people. Hiraizumi is a smaller city with a population of about 8,000 people. Both cities are located in the Kitakami River Valley, and they are both known for their beautiful scenery.

Language

The official language of Japan is Japanese. However, English is also widely spoken in tourist areas.

Currency

The currency of Japan is the yen (¥). Credit cards are widely accepted in both Hanamaki and Hiraizumi.

Distance

Hanamaki is located about 50 km (31 miles) north of Hiraizumi. It takes about 1 hour to drive from Hanamaki to Hiraizumi.

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Hanamaki and Hiraizumi:

  • By plane: The nearest airport to Hanamaki is Hanamaki Airport (HNA). There are direct flights to HNA from Tokyo, Osaka, and Sapporo.
  • By train: The Tohoku Shinkansen (bullet train) stops at Hanamaki Station. From Hanamaki Station, you can take a local train to Hiraizumi Station.
  • By bus: There are several bus companies that operate buses between Hanamaki and Hiraizumi.

Expenses

The cost of traveling to Hanamaki and Hiraizumi varies depending on your budget and travel style. However, here are some general tips for saving money:

  • Travel during the off-season (November to April).
  • Stay in guesthouses or hostels instead of hotels.
  • Eat at local restaurants instead of touristy restaurants.
  • Take advantage of free activities, such as hiking and visiting temples.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Hanamaki and Hiraizumi is in the spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best.

What to Eat

Hanamaki and Hiraizumi are both known for their delicious food. Here are some of the local specialties:

  • Wanko soba: A type of soba noodles served in small bowls. You can eat as much as you want!
  • Jajamen: A type of Chinese noodles served with a spicy miso sauce.
  • Morioka reimen: A type of cold noodles served with a spicy vinegar sauce.
  • Sanriku oysters: Oysters from the Sanriku coast are known for their plump and juicy flesh.
  • Chidori no mi: A type of persimmon that is only grown in Hanamaki.

Where to Go

Hanamaki and Hiraizumi are both home to several beautiful temples and historical sites. Here are some of the most popular attractions:

  • Chuson-ji Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is known for its beautiful Golden Hall and Konjiki-do (Golden Pavilion).
  • Mimizuku Observatory: A birdwatching observatory that is home to a variety of owls.
  • Kitayamazaki Sake Brewery: A sake brewery that offers tours and tastings.
  • Hanamaki City Museum of Art: A museum that houses a collection of contemporary art.
  • Hiraizumi Museum: A museum that tells the history of Hiraizumi.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Hanamaki and Hiraizumi:

  • Is it easy to get around Hanamaki and Hiraizumi?
  • Yes, both cities are easy to get around on foot or by public transportation.
  • Is it safe to travel to Hanamaki and Hiraizumi?
  • Yes, both cities are very safe. However, as with any travel destination, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings.
  • What is the best way to experience Hanamaki and Hiraizumi?
  • The best way to experience Hanamaki and Hiraizumi is to take your time and explore both cities on foot or by bicycle. This will allow you to soak up the atmosphere and discover hidden gems.

*Distance calculation may be aerial distance.

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