Nakatsu River runs in central Morioka, Iwate. The water is so clear that you can see the riverbed from over the bridges. The river joins Kitakami River, the 4th biggest river that flows into the Pacific Ocean in Japan.

Every year, during September to October, salmon run upstream for approximately 200km to spawn. It is said that Salmon return to the rivers they were born to spawn. The salmon seen in Nakatsu River too, are those that have returned in several years after maturing out in the Pacific.

The news of the salmon-run tells Morioka the arrival of autumn. Many locals admire the strengths and mystery of life by looking down at Nakatsu River during this period.

Those who come visit Morioka during this period will also be met with autumn leaves. Why not come enjoy the perfect autumn season of Morioka.