Morioka has two main rivers: the Kitakami River and Nakatsu River, both of which provided the city with natural protection during the warring feudal periods of Japan’s history. The rivers surround the city, so wherever you walk along the outskirts you can see them. In the evening, the lights from the city buildings are reflected on the water staining it with bright colour. Within the city, the restaurants come alive. Whether along the main streets, lined with brightly lit restaurants, or along the glistening riversides, a walk through Morioka in the evening is thrilling and stunning. The JR Morioka Station is easily accessible, especially to JR Pass holders, with direct shinkansen departing from Tokyo regularly.
- 1 min read
Evening in Morioka
Brightly lit streets and glittering rivers
Community writer
The view from Kaiunbashi Bridge on a rainy night is a golden haze
Lamplight by the river
A walk by the river in the evening
Sunset rolling over the tall buildings
Pink clouds over the JR Tohoku Shinkansen, pulling out of Morioka Station
The buildings along the riverside in the early evening
Lights reflected on the river
Morioka’s Kaiunbashi Bridge
Morioka by night
Brightly lit restaurants line the main Morioka streets
The elaborate street lights, hung with colourful flowers
Care for a midnight snack? The vending machines never close
The view from Kaiunbashi Bridge on a clear night is a glistening river
Kaiunbashi Bridge and Morioka city
Join the discussion
Elena Lisina
5 years ago
Morioka looks like a spacious nice city without crowds - I like that!
Thanks folks! Justin, it was actually raining slightly when I took the first photo, which is why the lights look so great.
Chikako Takahashi
11 years ago
Thank you for sharing these lovely pictures from Morioka! I was born there and often miss this peaceful and relaxing town indeed!
Justin Velgus
11 years ago
I love the first photo of Morioka at night!
4 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1Shopping in Ginza: 10 Unexpected Finds at Matsuya Ginza
Tokyo - Sponsored -
2Inside Nagasaki’s Tea World with Nagasaki Ikedoki Tea Tours
Nagasaki - Sponsored -
3Exploring Tokyo’s Food Culture
Tokyo - Sponsored -
4A Spring and Summer Guide to Lake Tazawa, Complete with the Perfect Stay
Akita - Sponsored -
5Exploring Japan Through the Seasons: Three First-Time Classic Tours
Culture -
6A Vegan Visit to Fukuoka
Fukuoka - Sponsored -
7Ozu Castle Town: A Sustainable Destination in Japan
Ehime - Sponsored -
8Explore Hakodate’s Gourmet Food and Markets
Hokkaido - Sponsored -
9Nature, Art, and Culture Along an Ancient Route
Culture - Sponsored -
10Ultimate Fukuoka Food Guide: Hakata Ramen, Yatai Culture & Beyond
Fukuoka - Sponsored
-
1Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2Guide to Suica Cards in Japan
Transportation -
3Akishinodera Temple
Nara -
4Tax-free Shopping in Japan: 2026 Changes
Planning -
5The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
6Punch the Monkey: Japan's Viral Baby Macaque
Chiba -
7May Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
8Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
9Ghibli Museum: How To Get Tickets (2026 Guide)
Culture -
10Japanese Urban Legends
Culture