【岩手観光vlog】車なしで厳美渓（空飛ぶだんご）から中尊寺金色堂を巡る｜世界遺産と大自然とグルメ｜一関・平泉・盛岡｜体力温存モデルコースΙ毛越寺・盛楼閣・白龍

At Genbikei Gorge, you absolutely have to try the 'Flying Dango.' You put ¥500 in a basket, tap a board twice, and a basket zips across the river from the teahouse on the opposite bank, delivering your dumplings and tea! It's so exciting to watch the basket fly, and enjoying the three kinds of dango—sweet red bean, black sesame, and soy glaze—with the gorge view is the best. Just be careful, the path to the pickup spot can be slippery in the rain.

At Mōtsū-ji, you can walk through a vast Heian-period Pure Land garden, a vision of paradise imagined by people of that era. Don't miss the Dejima-kumi-ishi and Kūchū-tate-ishi stones, which remain in their original form, showcasing Heian-period garden design. Knowing a little about the Ōshū Fujiwara clan's prosperity before visiting really changes how you see the scenery, making the trip feel deep even without covering every corner. We did a moderate clockwise loop.

To visit Chūson-ji Konjikidō, I recommend taking a taxi to the 'Saka-no-ue Parking Lot' to save energy, as it's only a 4-minute walk to the ticket office from there, avoiding the strenuous uphill approach. First, visit the Treasure Hall to refresh your knowledge of Fujiwara history. Then, enter the Konjikidō (¥1,000 admission). Photography is prohibited inside, but the magnificent gold leaf and mother-of-pearl inlay are overwhelming. You truly feel 'enveloped in gold'—it's a moving, first-time experience. The remains of Lord Kiyohira and other lords are preserved inside. On the way back, enjoy a leisurely stroll down the approach, where you'll discover many halls and even a Benkei face-in-cutout panel.

At Pailong, try the famous jaja-men, one of Morioka's three great noodles. Order the small jaja-men (¥630) and a chiitan soup (¥50). The flat udon-like noodles are topped with a special meat miso, cucumber, and other condiments. Mix it all up! You can customize the flavor with garlic, vinegar, and chili oil—I found the vinegar sharpened the taste, and even a little chili oil made it quite spicy but delicious. After finishing your noodles, crack an egg into your empty bowl, beat it, and hand it to the staff. They'll add hot soup to make 'chiitan,' a delicious finishing soup. It's an excellent and unique noodle experience!

At Sakurayama Shrine, you can participate in a unique ritual at Eboshi Rock. Take a 'pure stone' from the designated spot, carry it up the steps, and dedicate it at the base of the huge, over 6-meter-tall Eboshi Rock. This rock was found during the construction of Morioka Castle and has been revered as a symbol of good fortune, watching over the people of Morioka. It's a meaningful and quiet moment.