Demographics

Per Japanese census data, the population of Ōkura peaked around 1950 and is now considerably less than it was a century ago.

History

The area of present-day Ōkura was part of ancient Dewa Province. During the Sengoku period, the area was under the control of the Mogami clan. During the Edo period, the village was a river port on the Mogami River and a post station on the pilgrimage route to Mount Gassan. After the start of the Meiji period, the area became part of Mogami District, Yamagata Prefecture. The village of Ōkura was established on April 1, 1889, with the establishment of the modern municipalities system.

Economy

The main industry is agriculture (tomato and buckwheat), sake production, and seasonal tourism to its hot spring resorts. Kokeshi dolls are a noted local handicraft.

Education

Ōkura has one public elementary school and one public middle school operated by the village government. The village does not have a high school.

Transportation

Railways

Ōkura does not have any passenger railway service.

Highways

Local attractions

  • Hijiori Hot Springs
  • Shimizu Castle Ruins

References

  • Official Website