[Natagiri Toge mountain pass] On May 17, 1689, or July 3 in the solar calendar, Matsuo Basho and Kawai Sora stayed at the home of a Hojin border guard in Mogami Town. They then crossed the Natagiri Toge mountain pass, said to be the most difficult part that Basho chronicled in his "Narrow Road to the Deep North" travelogue, and headed for Obanazawa City. This mountain pass marked its 330th anniversary in 2019 and is a valuable historical site to remember Matsuo Basho's journey. The name of the pass, "Natagiri Toge," is said to have originated from its shape, which resembles the shape of the Natagiri hood worn during mountain work and hunting in the past. Today, a paved road (old road) is maintained to the top of the mountain, but the "historical road" that Basho followed has been maintained as a promenade. The path is a winding mountain road, which is also called "27 turns," covered fully by the Japanese beech forest and unspoiled nature. Near the summit of the mountain, there is a parking lot, toilets, and a simple rest area. There are also pavilions near the Kodakara Jizo statue (guardian deity for pregnant women), the Komochisugi cedar tree, and the stone monument for the Natagiri Toge. You can also spend some relaxed time in nature while contemplating the time of Basho.

A thematic journey in the Tohoku region:Okuno Hosomichi・The History of Michinoku