Tozawa, village in Mogami District, Yamagata Prefecture, Japan
Tozawa is a small village in the Mogami district surrounded by farmland and the Mogami River, which runs from east to west through the area. The settlement contains six restored farmhouses that welcome visitors, along with traditional guesthouses and nearby hot springs.
Tozawa grew over many generations as a farming community where people lived from rice and vegetable cultivation. The village connects to Matsuo Basho, a noted poet who traveled through the region in the 17th century and recorded his experiences in his work Oku no Hosomichi.
The name Tozawa reflects its deep connection to the Mogami River, which shapes daily life and local traditions. Visitors can see this bond in how residents maintain old crafts, gather seasonal plants, and prepare traditional foods that have passed through generations.
Getting to the village is straightforward by taking local trains, then renting a bike or walking through narrow, manageable roads. Friendly locals help travelers find their way, and exploring on foot or by bike at a relaxed pace is the best way to discover the settlement.
The village is known for traditional handmade soba noodles, with visitors able to participate in kneading and cutting. Botamochi, a sweet rice cake filled with red bean paste, is sold at a local shop and is a popular stop for travelers wanting to taste this regional specialty.
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