The above picture is the Notoya Ryokan (能登屋旅館) at Ginzan hot spring. The ryokan has a history of about 500 years and is now running by the 14th generation of the family. The hot spring name ‘Ginzan ‘comes from Silver mine nearby as it once brought great prosperity to the village.
This gorgeous traveling spot became famous when one Japanese legendary drama, Oshin was broadcasted, as Ginzan hot spring was used as shoot location.
Oshin is one of the most watched drama in Japanese history and was broadcasted in 68 other countries. The episodes follow the life of a girl born in poor countryside village, Shin Takakura (Oshin). In the story, Oshin visits Ginzan hot spring to meet her mother before she goes to service as apprentice.
You can visit the river where Oshin left from her mother. Besides, you can buy kokeshi doll(traditional wooden doll) featured in the drama.
It is also said that the Ghibli anime ‘Spirited Away’ took inspiration from Ginzan Hot Spring.
You can see the white view covered up with snow on January and February, please check your visiting day and take a reservation as first as you can!
Oshin’s film was mainly shot in Yamagata Prefecture located in north part of Japan.
From economical aspect, it’s said that Yamagata Prefecture was relatively poor and it all originated from Edo period, at that time feudal lord of Yamagata area lost provincial war, and they were deprived of vast wealth. It effected a citizen’s life. However the hard situation made Yamagata people strong, especially women who support family. That situation totally fits like Oshin story.
I’d introduce some other places where Oshin visited.
Sakata city: After apart from her mother, Oshin goes to this town. Since here is very far from urban area, time goes slowly. You’ll feel as if you slipped back in time! Sakata city offers visitors driving course of different Oshin filming locations. You can check the course from their homepage.
Now that we mentioned a couple Oshin film sets, please don’t forget to visit other tourist attractions! There are waterfalls, art museums, temples and shrines and many more! Those places are not well-known among tourists, but it’s worth visiting.
Japanese traditional style garden “Seienkaku” (清遠閣)
Homepage in English
http://www.homma-museum.or.jp/facilities/Ginzan Hot spring
Sakata City
Comments