Learn history and folklore! Experience it firsthand! 6 Recommended Tourist Spots in Tono

Tono is one of Iwate Prefecture’s most famous tourist destinations, located in the inland region of Iwate. It’s well known as a place where you can still enjoy ancient Japanese legends, as featured in the book "The Legends of Tono" by folklorist Kunio Yanagita. This book compiles the folktales, anecdotes, and traditions handed down in the Tono area.
Once you step into Tono’s mysterious world, you’re sure to encounter exciting experiences you wouldn’t find in your everyday life. Tono’s beautiful nature will guide you into a healing and peaceful world.
So this time, we’d like to introduce some recommended sightseeing spots in Tono that will help you experience its wondrous and healing adventures.
Aside from the famous Megane Bridge (Miyamori River Bridge), why not head out to explore more of Tono’s fascinating world?

1. Could You Catch a Kappa!? “Kappa Buchi”

Everyone has probably heard of the legendary Japanese creature known as the Kappa. Have you ever wanted to try catching one? You could even say that Kappa are a symbol of Tono! If you visit Tono, Kappa Buchi is a must-see tourist spot.
At Tono’s Kappa Buchi, you might actually have a chance to catch one of these mythical creatures. There’s an old legend that Kappa once frequently appeared in the Tono area, surprising and playing tricks on people.
To catch a Kappa, you need a special permit, which you can buy at Tono’s tourist information centers or roadside stations. There are traps set up using cucumbers by the stream, so if you search patiently, you might be lucky enough to encounter one. If luck is on your side, catching a Kappa and becoming instantly famous might not be just a dream!
Since it’s said that Kappa live here, Kappa Buchi is surrounded by lush greenery and clear water. This atmospheric spot, full of Tono’s mystical charm, is definitely a place you shouldn’t miss when visiting Tono.
Parking is available a little further away along the road.

2. A Nostalgic Rural Landscape: “Tono Furusato Village”

Living in the city can sometimes feel suffocating, right? So what do you do at times like that? Why not leave behind your watch and phone for a while and step into a place that smells like nostalgia?
Tono Furusato Village is the perfect spot for those seeking such an experience. It’s a faithful reproduction of a mountain village from Tono, ranging from the mid-Edo period to the mid-Meiji period. Look around and you’ll see waterwheels and fields—no tall buildings in sight. Since you’re already visiting Tono, why not forget about time for a bit and take it easy?
There are also lots of hands-on activities where you can learn from the “Mamuribito” (guardians of Tono’s traditional culture). You can try farming, dyeing with plants, making bamboo dragonflies, and more—great fun for family trips too!
Why not experience the nostalgic rural landscape of old Tono for yourself?

3. Discover the Life of Tono at the “Tono Municipal Museum”

When visiting Tono, it’s highly recommended to also learn about its history and culture. One of the best places to do this is the Tono Municipal Museum.
The Tono Municipal Museum offers an easy-to-understand explanation of Kunio Yanagita’s The Legends of Tono. In the section called “Journey into the World of Tono Monogatari,” there is a theater screen where you can watch animations based on the folktales featured in the book.
The museum also showcases the harsh natural environment of Tono and the local folk beliefs, making for a rich and informative experience. Visitors of all ages—from children to adults—are sure to be fascinated by the history of Tono. If you’re sightseeing in Tono, this museum is definitely one spot you don’t want to miss.

4. Dive Deep into the World of Tono Monogatari at “Tono Monogatari no Yakata”

When you talk about sightseeing in Tono, Tono Monogatari is a must. If you’re visiting Tono, why not dive deep and become an expert in the tales? That’s where the Tono Monogatari no Yakata (Tono Folktale Museum) comes in.
Unlike the municipal museum, this facility offers a different perspective on Tono Monogatari. One of the highlights is the Mukashibanashi Kura (Folktale Storehouse), where you can not only enjoy videos about folktales but also participate in interactive experiences and explore a picture book corner—making it perfect for families with kids.
There’s also an exhibit dedicated to Kunio Yanagita, the author of Tono Monogatari, showcasing his life and achievements. Plus, you can visit Tono-za, where storytellers narrate the folktales of Tono in person.
If you visit both the museum and this facility, you’ll surely leave as a Tono Monogatari master! With a dining area and souvenir shops available, you might find yourself spending the whole day here without getting bored.

5. Rest Your Tired Body at “Michi-no-Eki Tono Kaze no Oka”

After exploring the town of Tono, you’ll probably want to enjoy a good meal. For that, we recommend Michi-no-Eki Kaze no Oka (Roadside Station Tono Kaze no Oka).
Why not take it slow while gazing at the windmill, the symbol of Kaze no Oka? From the observation deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the flowing river and the beautiful mountains surrounding Tono. The nostalgic scenery is sure to blow away your everyday stress. This is definitely a tourist spot you’ll want to visit.
Inside, there’s a free rest area where you can easily take a break. Relax your tired body and get ready for your next adventure. You might also enjoy browsing the local products at the souvenir hall.
If you run into any problems during your trip, the information desk is there to assist you. It’s an essential stop when sightseeing around Tono.

6. Find Healing and Relaxation at “Takamuro Suikoen” (Takamuro Water Park)

The real charm of sightseeing in Tono is its beautiful nature. Many people visit Tono just to experience it. Takamuro Suikoen is a healing spot where you can enjoy Tono’s recreated natural beauty across a vast 62,000-square-meter space.
As you stroll through the garden, it feels like you have Tono’s stunning nature all to yourself. It’s the perfect place to refresh your body and mind from everyday fatigue.
Not only can you take a peaceful walk, but you can also try fishing here! You can catch fish at the fishing pond and even have them grilled and cooked for you to eat. There’s also accommodation available, so if you want to stay longer and enjoy the scenery, it’s definitely worth considering.
Even if you don’t stay overnight, they have day-use hot spring baths where you can unwind and relax. Be sure to stop by during your trip and enjoy everything this park has to offer.

◎ Summary

There may still be many folktales in Tono beyond what’s written in Tono Monogatari, making it a true hometown of folklore. From trying to catch a kappa to exploring museums, there are countless ways to experience the mysterious world of Tono.
And this is just the beginning—there are plenty of other tourist spots waiting to be discovered. Go explore the places that catch your interest!
You might just encounter something unbelievable, beyond anything you’d expect in your everyday life. By the time you head home, you’ll surely find yourself wanting to visit Tono again.
Be sure to visit Tono, a place filled with wonder and mystery!

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Learn history and folklore! Experience it firsthand! 6 Recommended Tourist Spots in Tono