Takahata, Yamagata

Demographics

Per Japanese census data, the population of Takahata has declined slightly in recent decades.

History

The area of present-day Takahata was part of ancient Dewa Province. During the Edo period, it was a castle town ruled by a branch of the Oda clan until their transfer to Tendō Domain, and afterwards a portion was controlled by the Yonezawa Domain. After the start of the Meiji period, the area became part of Higashiokitama District, Yamagata Prefecture. The village of Takahata was established on April 1, 1889, with the creation of the modern municipalities system. It was elevated to town status on December 12, 1895, and the kanji used to write its name assumed its present form in January 1905.

Economy

The economy of Takahata is based on agriculture and forestry. The town is noted for its production Delaware grapes and for its wine.

Education

Takahata has six public elementary schools and one public middle school operated by the town government, and one public high school operated by the Yamagata Prefectural Board of Education. .

Transportation

Railway

20px East Japan Railway Company - Yamagata Shinkansen

20px East Japan Railway Company - Ōu Main Line

Highway

– Nanyō-Takahata interchange

Sister cities

Singleton, New South Wales, Australia

Local attractions

site of Takahata Castle
Hinata Caves, National Historic Site
Ōdachi Caves, National Historic Site
Hibakoiwa Caves, National Historic Site
Ichinosawa Caves, National Historic Site