Top 3 Places to Eat in Hiraizumi

Written by Alexander Kopp, Sandra Frank, Sophie King
19/08/2025
Chūson-ji Benkeido in Hiraizumi, Iwate prefecture, Japan
663highland, Wikimedia Commons

Hiraizumi's dining scene offers a tranquil culinary journey, primarily showcasing traditional Japanese cuisine that complements its rich historical and cultural heritage, appealing to those seeking authentic local flavors.

1. Ekimae Bashokan

Cuisine: Wanko Soba (Buckwheat Noodles)

Ekimae Bashokan provides a quintessential Wanko Soba experience, a regional specialty. Guests are presented with multiple small bowls of soba, served with various accompaniments such as vegetables, katsuobushi, and pickles. The restaurant offers both traditional Japanese floor seating and standard tables, creating a comfortable environment for all diners. It is renowned for the quality of its soba noodles.

Price: Approximately 2,000 - 3,000 JPY (around $13-$20 USD) per person for a set.

Getting There: The restaurant is conveniently located just a one-minute walk from Hiraizumi Station.

2. Hiraizumi Rest House (Restaurant Gen)

Cuisine: Local Iwate Cuisine, Maesawa Beef, Mochi

Situated at the entrance to Chuson-ji Temple, Hiraizumi Rest House's Restaurant Gen offers a spacious dining area. It prides itself on dishes utilizing locally sourced Iwate ingredients, including the acclaimed Maesawa beef. Patrons can enjoy set meals such as the 'Tsukimizaka Gozen' or the 'Mochi Gozen', which features local specialty mochi. It is a suitable choice for groups and families.

Price: Lunch typically ranges from 1,000 to 1,999 JPY (around $7-$13 USD) per person, with the Tsukimizaka Gozen priced at 1,870 JPY.

Getting There: The rest house is approximately a 20-minute walk from Hiraizumi Station and is located directly in front of Chuson-ji Temple.

3. Kanzantei Restaurant

Cuisine: Soba (Buckwheat Noodles), Cafe, Sweets

Kanzantei Restaurant offers a pleasant respite, serving soba noodles and a selection of sweets, including creamy tiramisu. It provides a serene atmosphere with scenic views, often described as a 'sky oasis.' This venue is ideal for those seeking a lighter meal or a delightful cafe experience after exploring the nearby historical sites.

Price: Lunch generally costs between 1,000 and 1,999 JPY (around $7-$13 USD) per person.

Getting There: Located within the Chuson-ji Temple area, it is about a 40-minute walk from Hiraizumi Station, making it a convenient stop during a visit to the temple.

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