The Tohoku region in Japan consists of five prefectures: Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, Yamagata, and Fukushima. Among them, Iwate Prefecture stands out for its beautiful natural scenery, hot springs, and vibrant snow festivals.
Recently, Hanamaki Airport in Iwate began offering direct flights, making it even easier for travelers to visit and boosting the region’s tourism.
In this article, let’s explore some must-buy souvenirs you shouldn’t miss when visiting Iwate.
Iwate Souvenir Recommendation #1: Morioka Reimen
When talking about Iwate, you can’t leave out Morioka Reimen (Morioka Cold Noodles). The most famous version comes from “ぴょんぴょん舎” (PyonPyonSha).
You can enjoy the noodles at the restaurant or buy a take-home set that includes noodles, kimchi, sliced meat, eggs, cucumber, sesame vinegar, and other seasonings.
It’s easy to prepare at your accommodation — perfect if you’re staying in a villa or hotel apartment and want to relive the flavors of Iwate!
Product Information
- Reference Price: 3,780 yen
- Official Website
Iwate Souvenir Recommendation #2: Gomasuri Dango
Gomasuri Dango (Sesame-Filled Rice Dumplings) from Shoeidoh ranks as one of the most popular souvenirs among Japanese people. These dumplings use chewy, short-grain rice grown in the Tohoku region.
They combine two types of carefully roasted sesame seeds and are seasoned with a special soy sauce, creating a sweet, aromatic sesame filling with rich flavors. The texture feels layered, and the sweetness is delicious without being overwhelming!
Product Information
- Reference Price: 756 yen for 8 pieces
- Official Website
Iwate Souvenir Recommendation #3: Tamura no Ume
Shoeidoh offers another popular souvenir, “Tamura no Ume,” which has been a bestseller since the Taisho era, over a century ago.
This treat is shaped like a pentagon, with chewy mochi wrapping a filling of ume paste (premium plum fruit), and it’s then coated with shiso leaves.
The packaging is designed to resemble a plum blossom, making it both visually beautiful and delicious — perfect for enjoying or giving as a gift!
Product Information
- Reference Price: 1,426 yen for 6 pieces
- Official Website
Read:
5 Must-Try Kagoshima Souvenirs That Delight Your Taste Buds!
Iwate Souvenir Recommendation #4: Nanbu Senbei
In the northern part of Iwate Prefecture, you’ll often find Nanbu Senbei, a type of flat cracker made from a mix of flour, water, and salt. The most common flavors are peanut and sesame.
Nanbu Senbei has a simple shape, a light grilled aroma, and a mildly salty taste, making it a traditional snack that is a must-have at local celebrations.
Today, for more variety, you can also find flavors like squid, pumpkin, and apple.
Product Information
- Reference Price: 375 yen for 10 pieces
- Official Website
Iwate Souvenir Recommendation #5: Ganso Ika-Senbei
In addition to Nanbu Senbei, Iwate also offers the super cute Ganso Ika-Senbei! This souvenir is very popular among tourists.
This senbei comes from the coastal city of Miyako. In 1869, during the Battle of Miyako Bay, the first generation of the Sugata family created this snack by boiling squid, mixing it with flour and sugar, and then grilling it to make senbei.
The snack quickly became a hit with soldiers and locals. After generations of refinement, it evolved into the cute squid-shaped senbei we know today.
Product Information
- Reference Price: 324 yen for 7 pieces
- Official Website
Iwate Souvenir Recommendation #6: Iwayado Yokan
Iwayado Yokan is a traditional sweet that has been passed down since the 36th year of the Meiji era (around 1903).
This product still uses traditional methods without any additives or artificial sweeteners. Its consistent quality and flavor have made it beloved by many.
There are four flavor variations: Kokuren (brown sugar), Shiraren (white sugar), Yōkan Kuri (yōkan with chestnuts), and Honren (classic yōkan). Its distinctive feature is a firm texture that remains chewy when bitten.
Product Information
- Reference Price: 189 yen for 70g
Those are some must-buy souvenirs in Iwate Prefecture, Tohoku, Japan. You can find most of these souvenirs at the “FESAN” shopping area located at the station. So, before you board the train, make sure to set aside some time for shopping!
