Koiwai Farm at the foot of Mt. Iwate is one of Japan’s oldest private farms (established 1891) — 3,000 hectares of grazing land producing milk, cheese and butter. The farm’s raw-milk soft-serve ice cream is legendary, and spring lambing, autumn apples and grand views of Mt. Iwate draw families from across Tohoku.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Shizukuishi, Iwate |
| Hours | ~9:00–17:00 (seasonal) |
| Admission | Makiba-en entry ~¥800 |
| Time needed | 2–3 hours |
| Best time | Spring–autumn; winter illumination |
What to Try
- Legendary raw-milk soft-serve ice cream.
- Farm-made cheese, butter and yogurt.
- Grand views of Mt. Iwate over the meadows.
- Family activities and a winter illumination.
Combine Your Visit
- Photograph the lone Koiwai cherry tree in spring.
- Hike or view Mt. Iwate itself.
- Ski nearby Appi Kogen in winter.
Getting There
- By car: ~15 min from Koiwai/Shizukuishi Station.
- By bus: seasonal buses from Morioka Station.
Tips
Go for the soft serve at minimum — it’s genuinely famous. The Makiba-en area has most of the family attractions and the best Mt. Iwate views.
