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Iwate

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Travel guide
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Travel guide

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Best time to visit Iwate

Data source：Meteostat
Last updated：2025-09

Weather in Iwate throughout the year

  • Spring (March–May): Average 4.4–15.6°C, the climate gradually changes from cold to warm. There is still a chance of snowfall in March, and it gradually warms up starting in April. Common activities: Cherry blossom viewing (depending on the cherry blossom variety and blooming time), hiking, mountain climbing. Recommended clothing: Layered clothing, jacket, sweater, long-sleeved shirt.
  • Summer (June–August): Average 20.2–25.9°C, hot and humid with abundant rainfall, especially in July and August. Common activities: Playing in streams, visiting summer resorts, mountain climbing (pay attention to weather changes). Recommended clothing: Light and breathable clothing, rain gear.
  • Autumn (September–November): Average 13.6–21.7°C, the climate is comfortable and pleasant, cool and dry, it's a good season for viewing autumn leaves. Common activities: Viewing autumn leaves, hot springs, hiking. Recommended clothing: Light jacket, long-sleeved shirt.
  • Winter (December–February): Average -1.0–4.4°C, cold and dry, with a high probability of snowfall. Common activities: Skiing, snow activities, hot spring experience. Recommended clothing: Warm clothing, thick coat, waterproof and warm shoes and boots.

Weather in Iwate

Annual average temperature: approx. 12°C / Annual rainfall: approx. 1443 mm / Summer humidity: 70%–80% / Rainiest month: August

Iwate weather by month

Month
Temperature (°C)
Rainfall (mm)
January
-1°C
41
February
-0.1°C
44
March
4.4°C
108.3
April
11.5°C
84.7
May
15.6°C
85.7
June
20.2°C
122.7
July
24.6°C
273
August
25.9°C
305.3
September
21.7°C
156.3
October
13.6°C
71.3
November
7.7°C
76.7
December
1°C
74.3

7-day weather forecast for Iwate

11/4
Wednesday
Overcast
13.9°C/0.4°C
11/5
Thursday
Light drizzle
11.7°C/4.5°C
11/6
Friday
Light rain shower
14.7°C/3.4°C
11/7
Saturday
Light sleet
5°C/0.8°C
11/8
Sunday
Patchy rain nearby
6.3°C/-3.2°C
11/9
Monday
Cloudy
6.9°C/-3.5°C
11/10
Tuesday
Sunny
3.7°C/-4°C

Iwate travel FAQs and useful info

Is Geibikei Gorge worth visiting?

Geibikei Gorge, located in Ichinoseki City, Iwate Prefecture, is a 2-kilometer-long gorge flanked by cliffs over 50 meters high. Designated as Iwate Prefecture's No. 1 "Scenic Spot," it's an unmissable attraction. Visitors enjoy the magnificent gorge scenery from traditional wooden boats, expertly navigated by boatmen using a single pole.

How to get to Iwate Prefecture from Taiwan?

Take a direct flight from Taipei Taoyuan International Airport to Iwate Hanamaki Airport with "Tigerair Taiwan." The flight takes a little over three hours. From Hanamaki Airport, take a bus directly to Morioka city center to immediately experience the city's charm.

What are the recommended sightseeing spots in Morioka?

Morioka City boasts rich history, culture, and natural landscapes. Recommended spots include the solemn Morioka Hachimangu Shrine, Morioka Castle Site Park (Iwate Park) with its beautiful cherry blossoms, the artistic vicinity around Morioka Station, and the Morioka Handcrafts Village and Sakurayama Shrine, where you can experience traditional Japanese crafts.

What are the recommended places to visit in the Hanamaki area?

The Hanamaki area is renowned as the hometown of writer Kenji Miyazawa. Recommended spots include the fairytale-like Kenji Miyazawa童話村 (Miyazawa Kenji Fairy Tale Village), and Kajiyashiki (かじや) for experiencing local delicacies. Don't miss the colorful "Ginga Tetsudō no Yoru" (Night on the Galactic Railroad) mural, the scenic Hanamaki Riverside Park, and the Hanamaki Toy Museum, perfect for family fun.

What are the characteristics of Iwate Prefecture's natural scenery?

Iwate Prefecture features spectacular natural landscapes, with the gorge scenery of Geibikei Gorge being particularly stunning. The prefecture is also abundant in mountains, rivers, and coastlines. With distinct four seasons, each offers unique charm, making it ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and experiencing nature.