Goishi Onsen Kairakuso

Suneka of Yoshihama

A small New Year's ritual held on January 15th every year. Suneka, a straw man wearing a strange mask, goes around the houses in the area, praying for the healthy growth of children, a rich harvest, and a bountiful catch. The origin of ``suneka'' is said to be ``sunekawa taguri'', which is used to peel off the skin of the skin on the shins, which is caused by being too lazy to be around irori during the cold winter. The gestures and appearance that warn against lazy or crying children are very regional. The Yoshihama Suneka Preservation Society carries out activities to pass on the history of Suneka, such as lending costumes to children in the area. It was designated as a national important intangible folk cultural property in 2004. On November 29, 2018, "Visiting Gods: Gods in Masks and Costumes," including "Yoshihama Suneka," was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Goyo Onsen

It is the first natural hot spring on the Sanriku coast, located at the foot of Mt. Goyo, and is gaining popularity for its abundant hot water and ``hot springs for beautiful skin.'' The spring quality is a simple alkaline hot spring, which is effective for neuralgia, muscle pain, sensitivity to cold, recovery from fatigue, etc. In addition, the exchange building is equipped with an agricultural, forestry and fishery product direct sales corner, a cafeteria, an exchange hall, and a rest room. The original kibi soft-serve ice cream that can only be eaten here is also becoming increasingly popular.

Ofunato Tsunami Tradition Museum

The Ofunato Tsunami Folklore Museum was tentatively opened on March 11, 2013, two years after the Great East Japan Earthquake. You can see panels displaying videos and photos from the tsunami, and hear stories from storytellers about the evacuation process. You can also travel to the coastal area and listen to storytellers as part of a ``disaster area tour.'' *Reservation required