Morioka

Morioka is a city in Japan currently working to build what is said to be the “dream capital” for the Iwate District. With a population nearing half a million people, the need for a solid plan has finally been filled with a new city development contract being placed into action. The "Morioka: Building Together a Vital, Active Capital City" was put into place in 2005 completely outlining all that needed to be done to make the Morioka perfect.

The industries of Morioka are great with new growth happening rapidly in 2006. Technology, distribution, and company development are on among the top listed plans for the “new” city. Morioka has also devised several plans to bring in more tourists using the natural beauty of the city.

History

Morioka was established as a city when Nobunao, the 26th Lord of the Nambu Clan, began plans the Morioka Castle, in 1597. The plans for the city were great as Nobunao had everything designed in his master plan prior to beginning any construction.

While city growth was quite slow in the earliest stages, it did not take long for many to realize the promising area. Once real growth began it was unstoppable eventually becoming so large many considered Morioka to be the best place to set up shop in all of Japan.

Since this time the city of Morioka has seen many changes including the destruction of the cities caste, Morioka Castle. Happening in 1874, the work needed to repair the castle was far too great so the castle was left as only a memory of what it once was. Today, the Morioka Castle has been transformed into Iwate Park, still bearing its concrete foundation and thick outer walls.

Points of Interest

• Civic Cultural Hall is a newer construction to house concerts, orchestras, town meetings, and cultural activities.
• Morioka Castle Site is the site of the former castle. What is left of the castle can be visited.
• Morioka Zoological Park is filled with animals, both exotic and common, while also displaying a piece of the Japanese lands cultural development. The layout, design, and concept of the zoo are to allow visitors a chance to see how these animals truly live in their natural habitat.

External Links

• Morioka Official Website (English / Japanese)