Tohgatta Bridge/ Kokeshi Bridge
Nature
It is a bridge over Matsu River flowing through Tohgatta Onsen. It is a famous bridge as large "Kokeshi" are built on both sides of the bridge.
A bridge you pass on the way from Tohgatta Onsen Town to Nanokappara Kogen via National Road No.457 crosses over Matsu River, which flows into Shiroishi River. Because there are rustic giant Kokeshi dolls, it is known as the "Kokeshi Bridge". The view from the bridge, Zao Mountain Range and seasonal scenery of Matsu River are simply magnificent.
The Tohgatta Bridge, over Matsu River which flows into Shiroishi River, is commonly known as the Kogashi Bridge. On this bridge, huge Kokeshi are welcoming visitors by having Zao at the background. These kokeshi were built in the four corners of the bridge in Showa 46 (1971). Since then, they have been watching tourists as a symbol of the traditional Kokeshi production area. Tohgatta Kokeshi has a relatively small body, while its plug in type head is comparatively large. The painting patterns are often hand-drawn flowers and others, such as the desgin of chrysanthemums, plum patterns, and grain patterns. It is said to be the most gorgeous Kokeshi among the various strains. Using a raw log mainly cut out from Zao mountain, a single Kokeshi maker carries out all processes by themselves and handmakes one by one. It says that the heart of the maker appears in the expression of Kokeshi. You can experience painting at Miyagi Zao Kokeshi Hall, so how about trying to make your own kokeshi? "
- Postal Code
- 989-0916
- Address
- Tohgatta Onsen, Zao Town, Katta-gun, Miyagi prefecture
- Access Method
- By bus: From JR Shiroishi Zao Station, take Miyako Bus bounding for Tohgatta Onsen (Duration 47 minutes). Get off at Tohgatta Onsen Yunomachi and walk for 3 minutes