Taking pride in the city's four hundred year old history, the citizens of Morioka have carefully preserved the many historic buildings and locations which speak to us from the past. The town was founded by the twenty-sixth Load of Nambu, Nobunao, who began construction of both the town and castle. Morioka is often called "the City of Forest" and is the home of the famous poet. Three lovely rivers merge near the center of the town and Kitakami mountains is seen to the east. Nakatsu River has been especially loved by citizens. An annual summer "ayu" fishing event includes the whole family when many beautiful flowers are blooming on the river banks.