Head to the very center of Iwate Prefecture and you’ll find Tono, a relatively quiet city tucked away in a valley surrounded by mountains. What Tono lacks in size it makes up for in old stories and traditional cultural activities coming from the city’s strong links to folklore. Most famous as the birthplace of the kappa, you’ll find the imp-like mythical creature in all corners of the city luring in innocent passersby as they discover this magical little city. Despite its many attractions, the city isn’t particularly well set up for those without a car so if you plan on getting the train into Tono, be ready to enjoy an active day of cycling or a good few hours walking.
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![A Day Out in Tono]()
A Day Out in Tono
Before setting off to discover the many folktales of Tono, it’s best to start the day on a full belly and there’s no better way of achieving that result than with a healthy serving of lamb barbecue. With many of the best tourist spots a good distance from Tono Station, if you’re arriving by train be sure to make a beeline for Tono Meat Center a 30-minute walk from the train station. Providing delicious jingis kan, or lamb buffet to its hungry customers since 1965, Tono Meat Center offers both lunch and dinner on a cook-your-own barbecue set at your table as well as being home to a deli that is open 10:00 am - 8.30 pm.
- Tono Shokuniku Center
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- Iwate Pref. Tonoshi Matsuzakichoushiraiwa 20-13-1
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![A Day Out in Tono]()
A Day Out in Tono
A trip to Tono isn’t complete without visiting the Denshoen facility in the east of the city. Giving an insight into the traditional lifestyles of the people of Tono, the collection of reconstructed thatched roof farm houses are home to numerous historical facts to be uncovered and activities to get involved with. For a mere 310 yen (or less for children), you can enter the site and discover more about Tono’s history of folklore at the museum about the unforgettable Tales of Tono before trying your hand at local customs and craft-making from the past including making traditional toys.
![A Day Out in Tono]()
A Day Out in Tono
Just a 5-minute walk from Denshoen you’ll find Joken-ji temple. Founded in the early 15th century, this Soto sect Buddhist temple is most recognisable for the kappa statues you’ll find on the grounds. Known for their fondness of water, and even more so for their mischievous character, the kappa at Joken-ji carry bowls of water on their head which are believed in this case to be used for putting out fires.
![A Day Out in Tono]()
A Day Out in Tono
With mythical creatures on the mind, it’s time to take a trip to Kappa-buchi Pool just across the river from Denshoen and the Joken-ji Temple. Legend has it that kappa have always lived in water, be it pools, rivers, or lakes. While the kappa are said to do a good job of protecting the nearby temple, the cheeky water imps are. Though a sighting of a kappa is somewhat unlikely, the tree-lined waterside paths are peaceful and pretty and a great chance to get into the local folktale spirit of Tono.
![A Day Out in Tono]()
A Day Out in Tono
A 35-minute stroll east from Kappa-buchi Pool will bring you to the rather picturesque Takamuro Suikoen Park, a complex bursting with eateries, indoor activities, and accommodation. The park’s handy location right next door to Tono City Waterworks gives it not only the benefit of pretty water features but also easy access to water for running the park’s reputable hot springs, some of which are heated with solar power. If you’re planning on staying the night in Tono, this is your best bet with a number of hotels to choose from including a night in a traditional Edo style building.
- たかむろ水光園
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