Field Trips

Genbikei Gorge

Carved out over eons by the Iwai River, Genbikei Gorge is one of Japan's most scenic natural monuments. Along its two-kilometer stretch, the emerald-green stream features unique rock formations, waterfalls, and breathtaking seasonal beauty that once enchanted the famous warlord Date Masamune.

A highlight of any visit is the famous "Flying Dango" (Kakko Dango). By placing money in a basket attached to a cable line, visitors can order rice dumplings from a shop across the river. The basket "flies" back over the roaring waters, delivering fresh dango and hot green tea right to your hands.

Chūson-ji Temple

Founded in 850 by the high priest Ennin, Chūson-ji is a historic temple situated atop Mt. Kanzan. In the early 12th century, Lord Kiyohira, the founder of the Ōshū Fujiwara clan, expanded it into a massive complex. Deeply moved by the bitter conflicts of the era, Kiyohira dedicated the temple to placating the spirits of all who died—both friend and foe. His vision was to create a peaceful world based on Buddhist principles, where all travelers would be universally welcomed and blessed.

Although a fire in 1337 destroyed many of its buildings, Chūson-ji miraculously preserves over 3,000 National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. The crown jewel is the Konjikidō (Golden Hall), a dazzling, completely gilded Amida hall that was the first structure designated as a Japanese National Treasure. Together with these priceless masterpieces, which represent the pinnacle of Heian-period Buddhist art, Chūson-ji allows modern visitors to experience the enduring dream of peace nurtured by the ancient dynasty.

Geibikei Gorge

Regarded as one of the 100 Landscapes of Japan, Geibikei Gorge in Iwate Prefecture is a peaceful world flanked by towering 50-to-100-meter cliffs. The bare rock faces transform beautifully with each season, standing over the calm Satetsu River.

Visitors can experience this scenery on a smooth, 90-minute round-trip cruise. These traditional boats are skillfully guided by charismatic boatmen using just a single pole. On the return journey, the boatman sings the traditional Geibi Oiwake ballad, creating an absolutely surreal and magical atmosphere.

Halfway through the cruise, you will disembark for 20 minutes to stretch your legs and try the unique "fortune stone" challenge. You can purchase three stones engraved with blessings (for 100 yen) and try to hurl them into a small hole in the cliff face across the water. If you successfully land a stone inside, you will be blessed with the fortune carved upon it!

Shiogama Seafood Wholesale Market

Shiogama has been an important fishing port for centuries and is especially famous for its high-quality fresh tuna. Located near the rich fishing grounds of the Sanriku coast, the city has played a significant role in Japan's fishing industry and continues to supply fresh seafood throughout the region.

The Shiogama Seafood Wholesale Market is where local fish retailers and restaurants purchase fresh seafood every morning. During your visit, you will experience the lively atmosphere of an authentic Japanese fish market while learning about the region's rich maritime culture and long-standing fishing traditions.

A highlight of the visit is the opportunity to create your own seafood rice bowl (Katte-don) by selecting your favorite sashimi from different vendors. This hands-on experience offers a unique taste of Shiogama's fresh seafood and local food culture.

Matsushima

Matsushima is one of Japan's Three Most Scenic Views and has been admired for its breathtaking landscape for more than a thousand years. The bay is dotted with over 260 small pine-covered islands, creating a unique and picturesque seascape that has inspired poets, artists, and travelers throughout Japanese history.

The area is home to many historic temples and cultural landmarks, including Zuiganji Temple, a National Treasure closely associated with the feudal lord Date Masamune, and Entsuin Temple, renowned for its beautiful gardens, seasonal scenery, and elegant architecture. Together with the bay's stunning scenery, these sites reflect Matsushima's rich cultural and historical heritage.

The streets around the bay are lined with cafés, restaurants, and local shops, where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, regional specialties, and traditional Japanese sweets while exploring the area. This combination of scenic beauty, historic landmarks, and local cuisine makes Matsushima one of Japan's most popular travel destinations.

Arahama Elementary School

Arahama Elementary School has been preserved as a memorial to the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami. Located along the Pacific coast, the school was directly affected by the disaster. More than 300 students, teachers, and local residents successfully evacuated to the upper floors of the building and were safely rescued, making the school a symbol of disaster preparedness and resilience.

Today, the school serves as a disaster memorial museum. Visitors can see classrooms and facilities that have been preserved in their post-tsunami condition, along with exhibits that explain the impact of the earthquake and tsunami, the evacuation process, and the importance of disaster preparedness.

The visit provides an opportunity to learn about the devastating effects of natural disasters while gaining a deeper understanding of Japan's efforts in disaster prevention, recovery, and community resilience.