The Iwate Prefecture is located in the west central part of the Tohoku (Northeast) region of Japan, and its capital city is Morioka.  During the Feudal Period, Morioka prospered as the castle town of the Nambu clan and there are still many historical sites in the neighboring districts.  Today, Morioka is the terminal of the Tohoku Shinkansen railway.  The Iwate prefecture is rich in natural beauty such as gracefully shaped Mt. Iwate and many scenic places designated as National Parks including the pristine Towada Lake and the skiers' paradise of Hachimantai Plateau. The Rikuchu Coast, famous for its rugged "rias" type coastline, eroded into many inlets and grottos, cliffs and stone columns, lies to the east. 

Many different types of hot springs are everywhere in this prefecture, and we relaxed in the Japanese style hotel rooms in the evening.  All of us dressed in Yukata (Kimono made with cotton cloth), sat on the Tatami floor where dinner and Sake were served.

After a while, music and dancing by the local Geisha girls started on the stage. 

Thank you Professor Izaki for the memorable and enjoyable experience.