Takamatsu no Ike Pond

Takamatsu no Ike Pond is one of the best places to escape the hustle and bustle of Morioka City. Located on the outskirts of Morioka, the pond provides visitors a relaxing retreat complete with wildlife and views of Mt. Iwate. The pond has been voted as one of the 100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots in all of Japan, and provides extensive walkways to ensure everybody can enjoy their beautiful color during full bloom. During the winter, the pond is also home to approximately 60,000 birds including swans, osprey and ducks. During the summer, Ducks dominate the pond as they fight for visitors' attention in the hopes of getting some food scraps. Although the pond is not one of Morioka's most famous attractions, it's still worth a visit for those who may be in the area. The pond is located off Route 4, a 15 minute bus ride from Morioka Station.