Tono City, located in Iwate Prefecture, is renowned as the setting of The Legends of Tono (Tono Monogatari) by Kunio Yanagita. It is a place where the world of Japanese folklore continues to thrive in everyday life. Visitors can explore iconic sites such as Kappa-buchi Pool, traditional thatched-roof Nanbu Magariya farmhouses, and picturesque rural landscapes while experiencing authentic green tourism that allows them to "travel like a local." Through interactions with local residents and hands-on experiences of rural culture, guests can discover the timeless charm of the Japanese countryside.
Tono offers a wide variety of unique cultural experiences, including farm stays, traditional local cooking, folk performing arts, cycling through scenic countryside, and guided walking tours. These programs are ideal for educational tours, international visitors, and group travel, providing flexible itineraries tailored to a wide range of interests and travel styles.
Tono is also one of Japan's leading hop-growing regions, producing hops for beer brewing. Visitors can enjoy locally crafted beers throughout the year, while summer offers the opportunity to tour the lush green hop fields. Combined with Tono's famous Genghis Khan barbecue and other regional specialties, these experiences showcase the area's rich culinary heritage.
From spring to early summer, the rice paddies reflect the sky like mirrors, while autumn transforms the countryside into a sea of golden rice fields. Each season reveals a different aspect of Japan's nostalgic rural landscape. The greatest appeal of Tono lies in its ability to offer meaningful, memorable journeys through its living folklore, traditional way of life, and warm encounters with local people.
We look forward to partnering with travel agencies to create distinctive stay-based and experiential travel programs that showcase the unique character and enduring spirit of Tono.