Complete Guide to Iwashimizu (Tozawa Village, Mogami District, Yamagata Prefecture): Postal Code, Origin of Place Name, and Access Information Summary
Iwashimizu (いわしみず) in Tozawa Village, Mogami District, Yamagata Prefecture is a settlement located in the Mogami region of northern Yamagata Prefecture. This article provides detailed explanations of everything related to this area, from basic information such as the postal code and how to read Iwashimizu, to the origin of the place name, historical background, access methods, nearby tourist attractions, and information about delivery services and moving.
Basic Information about Iwashimizu
Postal Code and Reading
Postal Code: 〒999-6312
Reading: iwashimizu
Location: Iwashimizu, Tozawa Village, Mogami District, Yamagata Prefecture
The place name Iwashimizu is read as “iwashimizu.” Throughout Japan, there are other place names with the same characters in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, Yachimata Town in Shiwa District, Iwate Prefecture, and Shinkai Town in Niikappu District, Hokkaido, but all are read uniformly as “iwashimizu.”
Administrative Division
- Prefecture: Yamagata Prefecture
- District: Mogami District (もがみぐん)
- Village: Tozawa Village (とざわむら)
- Oaza: Iwashimizu
Tozawa Village is located in the northern part of Yamagata Prefecture in the Mogami region, a nature-rich area with a population of approximately 4,000 people (as of 2024). The village covers an area of approximately 226 square kilometers, with most of it occupied by forests.
Origin of the Place Name and Historical Background
The Meaning of the Place Name “Iwashimizu”
The place name “Iwashimizu” is believed to derive from its literal meaning, “clear water springing from rocks.” Historically, there have been clear springs in this area that served as precious water sources for local residents.
Located in a mountainous region, Tozawa Village has relied on clear water springing from between rock formations as a valuable water source. It is presumed that this natural gift became established as a place name. The fact that place names called “Iwashimizu” are scattered throughout Japan is thought to reflect similar geographic characteristics common to such locations.
History of Iwashimizu Village
During the Edo period, what is now the Iwashimizu district existed as “Iwashimizu Village.” According to early modern village domain data from the late Edo period, Iwashimizu Village is recorded as an independent settlement belonging to Mogami District.
Following the enforcement of the municipal system in the Meiji period, it underwent repeated mergers with surrounding villages and ultimately became part of present-day Tozawa Village. The settlement developed as an agricultural village, with rice farming and field crops being particularly prosperous.
The Formation of Tozawa Village
Tozawa Village was born from the merger of multiple villages when the municipal system was implemented on January 1, 1889 (Meiji 22). The village name derives from the Tozawa clan, who ruled this area during the Sengoku period. The Tozawa were an influential feudal family in the Mogami region, later transferred to Hitachi Province (present-day Ibaraki Prefecture), but their name remained as a place name.
Iwashimizu district has long developed as an agricultural settlement, and amid the rich natural environment of the Mogami River basin, rice farming and forestry have been the major industries.
Geography and Natural Environment
Geographic Features
Iwashimizu is located in the central part of the Mogami region in northern Yamagata Prefecture. It is positioned in a tributary basin of the Mogami River and is characterized by a basin-like terrain surrounded by mountains. The elevation is approximately 200 to 300 meters, and the area becomes a heavy snowfall region in winter.
The Mogami River is known as one of Japan’s three fastest rivers, and Tozawa Village is famous for its history of river transport. From the Iwashimizu district, you can see the majestic flow of the Mogami River.
Climate
The Mogami region of Yamagata Prefecture belongs to the Japan Sea side climate, known for extremely heavy snowfall during winter. The Iwashimizu district is no exception, and from December through March, snowfall often exceeds 2 meters.
- Summer: Relatively cool with maximum temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius
- Winter: Severe cold with minimum temperatures dropping below minus 10 degrees Celsius
- Annual Precipitation: Approximately 2,000 to 2,500mm (including snow)
- Characteristics: Heavy snowfall region with large temperature variation
This temperature variation is a factor in producing delicious rice and agricultural products.
Natural Resources
As the place name Iwashimizu suggests, this area has abundant groundwater resources. Clear water flowing from the mountains serves not only as irrigation water for agriculture but also as an important element in forming the region’s natural landscape.
Surrounding forests are covered with deciduous trees such as Japanese beech and Mongolian oak, where visitors can enjoy picking wild vegetables in spring and mushroom hunting in autumn. The area is also home to streamfish such as Japanese char and yamame, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.
Access Methods
Access by Public Transportation
Railway
- Nearest stations: “Takaya Station” or “Koguchi Station” on the JR Riku-u West Line
- Approximately 20 minutes from Shinjo Station to Takaya Station
- From the station, use taxi or bus (approximately 15 to 20 minutes)
Bus
- Route buses to Tozawa Village area operate from Shinjo City
- Limited service, so advance confirmation of timetables is necessary
Access from Major Cities
- From Tokyo: Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes via Yamagata Shinkansen to Shinjo Station, then approximately 20 minutes by local train
- From Sendai: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes via highway bus or local train to Shinjo
- From Yamagata City: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car
Access by Automobile
Highway Routes
- Approximately 1 hour via Route 13 from “Higashine IC” on the Tohoku Chuo Expressway
- Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes via Routes 13 and 47 from “Yamagata Kita IC” on the Yamagata Expressway
Major Roads
- Route 47 runs east-west through Tozawa Village
- Approximately 30 minutes from Shinjo city center via Route 47
- Caution required for snow and icing in winter (studless tires required)
Navigation Settings
- Postal Code: 999-6312
- Address: Iwashimizu, Tozawa Village, Mogami District, Yamagata Prefecture
Travel Time Guidelines
- From Tokyo by car: Approximately 5 hours (via Tohoku and Tohoku Chuo Expressways)
- From Sendai by car: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
- From Yamagata City by car: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
- From Shinjo City by car: Approximately 30 minutes
Parcel Delivery and Postal Service Information
Postal Code and Delivery Times
Postal Code: 〒999-6312
Delivery Times from Major Cities (Estimates)
- From Tokyo: Next-day delivery (regular mail)
- From Osaka: Next-day to 3-day delivery
- From Sendai: Next-day to next-day delivery
- From Yamagata City: Next-day delivery
Faster delivery is possible by using express mail or letter packs. However, delivery may be delayed during heavy winter snowfall.
Parcel Delivery Services
The Iwashimizu district has access to major parcel delivery services.
Major Delivery Companies
- Yamato Transport (Takukyubin)
- Sagawa Express (Hikyaku Takubin)
- Japan Post (Yu Pack)
- Seino Transportation
Parcel Delivery Drop-off Locations
Parcel drop-off is available at convenience stores and post offices in Tozawa Village and nearby Shinjo City.
- Convenience stores in Tozawa Village
- Each parcel delivery company office in Shinjo City
- Post offices (multiple locations in Tozawa Village)
Price Guidelines
Parcel delivery rates vary depending on the origin and package size, but within Yamagata Prefecture, 60-size packages start at approximately 700 yen. Shipments to Tokyo and Osaka typically range from 1,000 to 2,000 yen depending on size.
All companies offer discount services and membership programs, so it is recommended to check in advance if you plan to use them frequently.
Private Mailbox Services
Private mailbox services may be available at post offices in Tozawa Village. Please contact your nearest post office for details.
Moving Information
Moving Companies
For moving to the Iwashimizu district, it is convenient to use moving companies that serve Yamagata Prefecture or the Tohoku region.
Major Moving Companies
- Sakai Moving Center (Yamagata Branch)
- Art Moving Center (Yamagata Branch)
- Nippon Express (Shinjo Branch)
- Locally-based moving companies
Moving Cost Estimates
- Single person (Tokyo to Iwashimizu): 80,000 to 150,000 yen
- Family (Tokyo to Iwashimizu): 200,000 to 400,000 yen
- Within prefecture: 50,000 to 100,000 yen
※Costs vary significantly depending on the season and amount of luggage. In particular, prices tend to be higher during the busy season from March to April.
Winter Moving Precautions
Moving during heavy snowfall season requires special considerations.
- Possibility of delays due to snow and icing
- May require 4WD vehicles
- Snow removal costs may apply separately
- Advance road condition confirmation is essential
Moving-in Procedures
When moving to the Iwashimizu district, procedures at Tozawa Village Office are required.
Necessary Procedures
- Moving-in notification (within 14 days of arrival)
- National Health Insurance enrollment (if applicable)
- Child allowance application (if applicable)
- Seal registration
- Resident ID card address change
Tozawa Village Office
- Address: 270 Koguchi, Tozawa Village, Mogami District, Yamagata Prefecture
- Phone: 0233-72-2111
- Reception Hours: Weekdays 8:30 AM to 5:15 PM
Living Environment and Surrounding Facilities
Educational Facilities
Elementary and Middle Schools
- Tozawa Village Tozawa Elementary School
- Tozawa Village Tozawa Middle School
There is one elementary school and one middle school in the village, with school bus transportation support provided.
High Schools
There are no high schools in the village. Students typically attend high schools in nearby Shinjo City.
- Shinjo Kita High School (Shinjo City)
- Shinjo Minami High School (Shinjo City)
- Shinjo Higashi High School (Shinjo City)
Medical Facilities
Medical Institutions in the Village
- Tozawa Village Clinic
- Dental Clinic
General hospitals are located in Shinjo City with emergency medical services.
- Shinjo Municipal Hospital (Shinjo City)
- Yamagata Prefectural Shinjo Hospital (Shinjo City)
Commercial Facilities
In the Village
- Shops (groceries and daily necessities)
- JA Direct Sales Shop (agricultural products)
- Gas stations
In Shinjo City (approximately 30 minutes by car)
- Supermarkets (York Benimar, Max Value, etc.)
- Home improvement stores
- Electronics retailers
- Shopping malls
Daily shopping is possible at village shops, but for large-scale retailers, you need to travel to Shinjo City.
Financial Institutions
- Post office (savings and ATM)
- JA Bank (agricultural cooperative)
Bank branches are located in several places in Shinjo City.
Surrounding Tourist Attractions
Mogami Gorge Basho Line Boat Tour
A representative tourist attraction of Tozawa Village, offering a boat tour experience through the rapid currents of the Mogami River with the skilled steering of the boat captain. The scenic area where Matsuo Basho composed “Gathering the May rains, swift is the Mogami River” is toured over approximately one hour.
- Duration: Approximately 60 minutes
- Operating Period: April to November (closed in winter)
- Price: Approximately 2,500 yen for adults
- Access: Approximately 15 minutes by car from Iwashimizu
Illusory Forest
A mystical forest filled with ancient Japanese beech trees hundreds of years old. A well-maintained forest trail allows visitors to enjoy forest bathing and nature observation.
- Duration: Forest tour 1 to 2 hours
- Best Season: New greenery from May to June, autumn foliage from October to November
- Access: Approximately 20 minutes by car from Iwashimizu
Tozawa Village Central Park
A park in the center of the village known as a famous cherry blossom spot. In spring, approximately 200 cherry trees bloom brilliantly, drawing crowds of flower-viewing visitors.
Kakugawa Onsen
A hot spring facility in Tozawa Village where day-trip bathing is available. The spring quality is sodium/calcium chloride, said to be effective for neuralgia and muscle pain.
- Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Price: Approximately 400 yen for adults
- Access: Approximately 10 minutes by car from Iwashimizu
Tourist Spots in Shinjo City
Shinjo Matsuri
One of the four major festivals in the Tohoku region registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Held annually from August 24 to 26, with gorgeous floats parading through the city.
Mogami Broad Area Exchange Center Yumeria
A multi-purpose facility adjacent to Shinjo Station featuring a tourist information center, souvenir shop, and restaurants.
Shinjo Castle Ruins (Mogami Park)
The site of Shinjo Castle built by the Tozawa clan, now maintained as a park. Also famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot.
Local Specialties and Food Culture
Local Specialties of Tozawa Village
Rice
Delicious rice is produced on the fertile soil of the Mogami River basin and thrives with the region’s significant temperature variation. In particular, branded rice varieties such as “Tsuyahime” and “Yukiwakamaru” are cultivated.
Wild Vegetables
In spring, abundant wild vegetables such as bracken, fatsia shoots, tassel flower buds, and butterbur sprouts are available. Fresh wild vegetables can be purchased at roadside stations and direct sales shops.
Mushrooms
In autumn, wild nameko, maitake, and other mushrooms are harvested.
Buckwheat Noodles
The Mogami region is known as a buckwheat-producing area, and Tozawa Village offers delicious hand-made buckwheat noodles.
Local Cuisine
Natto Soup
A winter staple in Yamagata Prefecture. A nutritious dish made by adding crushed natto to miso soup.
Imoni (Taro Stew)
A representative local dish of Yamagata Prefecture. Made by simmering taro, beef, konnyaku, and green onions in a soy-based broth. Imoni parties are held on riverbanks in autumn.
Imo Stick
A dish made by simmering taro on skewers in soy sauce. Known as a specialty of the Shinjo Matsuri festival.
Relocation and Settlement Support
Tozawa Village Relocation Support Programs
Tozawa Village has implemented various support programs to promote relocation and settlement.
Housing Support
- New home construction subsidy
- Vacant house bank system
- Home renovation subsidy
Child-rearing Support
- Birth celebration allowance
- Childcare fee reduction
- Medical expense assistance (through high school)
- School lunch fee subsidy
Employment Support
- Business startup subsidy
- Support for agricultural successors
For details, please contact the Planning Section of Tozawa Village Office.
Benefits of Relocation
Nature-Rich Environment
Surrounded by beautiful nature throughout the seasons, you can experience the leisurely pace of mountain living that cannot be found in the city.
Child-rearing Environment
You can raise children freely in a natural setting with a warm community that cares for children as a whole.
Food Abundance
Fresh rice, vegetables, wild vegetables, and mushrooms from each season are readily available.
Living Costs
Housing and living expenses are more affordable compared to urban areas.
Relocation Considerations
Harsh Winters
As a heavy snowfall region, snow removal work and heating costs require winter preparation.
Transportation Access
Public transportation is limited, making a personal vehicle essential.
Shopping Environment
For shopping at large stores, you need to travel to nearby Shinjo City.
Employment Opportunities
Employment options are more limited compared to urban areas. Remote work or business startup should be considered.
Motorcycle Courier and Emergency Delivery Services
Using Motorcycle Couriers
Since the Iwashimizu district is located in a mountainous region, same-day delivery motorcycle courier services available in urban areas are limited. If urgent delivery is needed, the following methods are possible.
Available Services
- Motorcycle and light cargo courier services from Yamagata or Shinjo City
- Parcel delivery time-designated service
- Japan Post Letter Pack Plus (next-day delivery)
- Takukyubin timed service (time-slot specified)
Price Guidelines
When using motorcycle courier from Shinjo City, typical charges are around 5,000 to 10,000 yen depending on distance. Charges from Yamagata City are higher.
In cases of high urgency, it is recommended to consult with the delivery company in advance to select the most appropriate method.
Future of Iwashimizu District
Regional Challenges and Prospects
Population Decline and Aging
Like local municipalities nationwide, Tozawa Village is experiencing population decline and aging. The Iwashimizu district is no exception, with youth outmigration being a challenge.
Regional Revitalization Initiatives
Tozawa Village is pursuing various initiatives including tourism promotion, relocation encouragement, and revitalization of local industries. Efforts focus on utilizing Mogami River boat tours as a central tourism resource and branding agricultural products.
Infrastructure Development
Road and communication infrastructure improvements are underway, with optical fiber installation improving remote work environments.
Sustainable Community Development
Tozawa Village aims at sustainable community development while preserving the natural environment. Initiatives in progress include forest resource utilization, renewable energy introduction, and promotion of organic farming.
The Iwashimizu district is expected to adapt to new times while preserving the value of a traditional agricultural settlement as part of these village-wide efforts.
Summary
Iwashimizu in Tozawa Village, Mogami District, Yamagata Prefecture (postal code 999-6312) is an agricultural settlement blessed with the rich natural environment of the Mogami River basin. With a place name read as “iwashimizu,” derived from clear water springing from rocks, this historically significant settlement dating to the Edo period continues life centered on agriculture.
Located approximately 4 hours from Tokyo via bullet train and local train connections, and approximately 5 hours by car, it is a heavy snowfall region with winter snow accumulation often exceeding 2 meters. However, this harsh natural environment produces delicious rice and agricultural products, creating beautiful seasonal landscapes.
Major parcel delivery and postal services are supported, with daily life infrastructure in place. When moving, winter snowfall requires caution, but the village’s relocation support program is well-developed, making it an attractive option for those seeking life in a nature-rich environment.
The area has many appealing tourist attractions nearby, including the Mogami Gorge boat tour and Illusory Forest, making it worth a visit. Those interested in leaving urban hustle behind for a leisurely pace of life in a mountain village should definitely consider visiting Iwashimizu in Tozawa Village.
