morioka, iwate

Morioka (盛岡市; -shi) is the capital city of Iwate prefecture, Japan. As of 2003, the city has an estimated population of 287,672 and the density of 588.11 persons per km². The total area is 489.15 km². The city was founded on April 1, 1889.

History

Morioka is in the territory of Emishi people in the ancient time. Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, who was ordered to conquer Emishi, built Shiwa Castle here in 803, and the region gradually became under the imperial control. At the end of the Heian period, Morioka was under the control of Oshu Fujiwara Clan based on Hiraizumi, the south of Morioka. The clan was destroyed by shogun Minamoto no Yoritomo, and Kudo Clan replaced it. During the Muromachi period, Nambu Clan expanded its territory from the north, and built Kozukata Castle here. Kozukata changed its name to Morioka in 17th century. In Boshin War, Morioka made pro-shogunate alliance with Aizu, and fought against the imperial force.

Geography

Morioka is located in Kitakami Basin. Kitakami River, the longest river in Tohoku, runs through the city. Beautiful Mount Iwate is in northwest of the city.

Transportation

Morioka Station was the original northern terminal of Tohoku Shinkansen. The line was extended to Hachinohe in 2002, but the station keeps its significant role in the traffic of northern Tohoku. Akita Shinkansen also branches off at the station.

Culture

Morioka attracts tourists with local noodles such as jajamen, reimen, and wankosoba. Brewing is also a thriving industry of the city.

Notable persons

Authors

Politicians

External links

Official website in Japanese

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