Understand

Hiraizumi, during the reign of the Fujiwaras (866-1184), was once a rival to Kyoto in terms of grandeur and sophistication. Today, the only remnants of its former glory are the temples of Chusonji and Motsuji, which unfortunately lie mostly in ruins. However, Hiraizumi still holds great reverence for the renowned haiku poet Matsuo Basho. In fact, Basho is idolized here more than anywhere else. Everywhere you turn, you'll come across statues, monuments, and inscribed copies of his famous haikus. Even local coffee shops proudly display their "As mentioned in Narrow Road to the Deep North" banners. Immerse yourself in the spirit of Basho and explore the poetic charm of Hiraizumi!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing