Iwate is the 'Home of Folklore' in Japan, largely thanks to the Tono region. Its landscape of mountains and valleys is teeming with tales of kappa, zashiki-warashi, and other rural spirits.

Historical Context

The legends of this region were immortalized in 'The Legends of Tono' (Tono Monogatari) by Yanagita Kunio, which collected local oral traditions and established folklore studies in Japan.

Local Folklore

Tono is famous for Kappa (river imps) and Zashiki-warashi (house spirits). Locals treat these beings not as myths but as neighbors in their history.

Notable Locations

Kappa-buchi Pool

A tranquil stream in Tono where Kappa are said to live; visitors can even fish for them with cucumbers.

⚠️ Kappa

Tono Furusato Village

Traditional magariya houses where Zashiki-warashi (child house spirits) are rumored to bring good fortune.

⚠️ Zashiki-warashi

Mount Hayachine

A sacred peak associated with mountain ascetics and the legends of Yamabushi tengu.

⚠️ Tengu

Iwate Knowledge