Nishikawa, Yamagata

Demographics

Per Japanese census data, the population of Nishikawa peaked around 1950 and has declined considerably since then. It is now less than half what it was a century ago.

History

The area of present-day Nishikawa was part of ancient Dewa Province. After the start of the Meiji period, the area became part of Nishimurayama District, Yamagata Prefecture. The town of Nishikawa was established on October 1, 1954, by the merger of the villages of Kawadoi, Nishiyama, Hondōji and Ōisawa.

Economy

The economy of Nishikawa is based on seasonal tourism and forestry.

Education

Nishikawa has one public elementary schools and one public middle school operated by the town government. The town does not have a high school.

Transportation

Railway

Nishikawa is not served by any passenger rail service. The nearest station is Uzen-Takamatsu Station in the neighboring city of Sagae.

Highway

24px|link=|alt=E48 Yamagata Expressway : Nishikawa IC, Gassan IC

Local attractions

Iwanesawa Sanzan Shrine
Mizugatoro Dam
Mount Asahi
Mount Gassan
Sagae Dam