【岩手観光】盛岡&一関・平泉を巡る1泊2日王道モデルコース！グルメも観光もこれ1本で完全攻略⁠！

Walk up the gentle Tsukisaka path, lined with centuries-old cedar trees, leading to Konjikido Hall. The sacred atmosphere deepens with every step. Chusonji Temple's Konjikido Hall was built in 1124 by Fujiwara no Kiyohira, who sought to create a peaceful utopia free from conflict after experiencing great loss in war. This philosophy of wishing for peace equally for all, regardless of friend or foe, led to its registration as a World Heritage site. The viewing fee is ¥1,000 for adults. Photography is prohibited inside Konjikido, so you must see its overwhelming beauty, covered in pure gold, and the 900-year-old enshrined remains with your own eyes.

Head to Genbikei Gorge, a stunning natural wonder where the Iwai River's powerful currents have carved a beautiful valley over millennia. The highlight here is the 'flying dumplings' from Kakkou Dango. Place your money in a basket, tap the board, and the basket is retrieved across the river. Soon after, a basket with three types of dumplings (mitarashi, black sesame, and red bean paste) and tea comes flying back! The dumplings are surprisingly large, chewy, and incredibly delicious. Be aware that there's often a long queue, and business hours are irregular, ending when sold out, so check their Instagram before visiting. You can also enter the shop across the river to eat the dumplings there.

Visit Geibikei Gorge, one of Japan's 100 Landscapes, about 30 minutes by car from Genbikei Gorge. While simply admiring the river is nice, the river rafting experience is highly popular. The Geibikei river rafting uses no motors; a boatman skillfully navigates the boat with a single wooden pole, allowing you to enjoy the sounds of water and nature in peace, forgetting the city's hustle. The 2km, 90-minute boat trip takes you past impressive cliffs. The boatman also sings the traditional folk song 'Geibi Oiwake,' its melodious voice echoing beautifully against the sheer rock walls, creating a deeply healing experience for all your senses. Halfway through, you disembark to see the 'Dai Geibi' cliff, over 120m high, and try 'Undama Nage' (lucky ball throwing). For ¥100, you get two small balls inscribed with wishes like 'fortune' or 'love.' If you can throw them into a small hole in the cliff face, your wish is said to come true. It's surprisingly far and the hole is high, making it challenging, but I managed to get one in! On the way back, you can relax and feed the fish.