Kosugi no Osugi is a massive natural cedar tree standing in the Kosugi area of鮭川村 (Sakegawa Village), Yamagata Prefecture. Estimated to be around 1,000 years old, this ancient tree has a distinctive shape that reminds visitors of Totoro, the beloved character from the animated film My Neighbor Totoro. For this reason, it is affectionately known as the “Totoro Tree.”
Having survived for centuries, the giant cedar has long been revered by local residents as a sacred tree. Its imposing presence in the surrounding forest creates a mysterious atmosphere, making it one of Sakegawa Village’s best-known attractions.
The tree is also associated with a local legend. According to the story, the lord of the Shinjo Domain once encountered a fierce snowstorm while hunting deer. He is said to have taken shelter beneath this great cedar, where he escaped the severe wind and snow.
The most distinctive feature of Kosugi no Osugi is its unusual shape. At the top of the tree, two large branches extend upward like ears, while the lower part of the trunk spreads broadly toward the ground.
The combination of its rounded, body-like trunk and widely extending branches makes the tree look remarkably similar to Totoro. Depending on the angle from which it is viewed, it can almost appear as though a giant Totoro is standing quietly in the forest.
Because this form was created naturally over hundreds of years, it has a unique combination of grandeur and charm that could never be reproduced by an artificial sculpture.
Kosugi no Osugi is a valuable natural cedar estimated to be around 1,000 years old. It belongs to the same type of natural cedar found around the Mogami Gorge and is sometimes referred to as a jindai-sugi, or “ancient cedar.”
Height: Approximately 20 meters
Trunk circumference at the roots: Approximately 6.3 meters
Branch spread: Approximately 17 meters
The tree is impressive not only for its height but also for the enormous width of its branches. Looking up at it from nearby, visitors can appreciate the massive trunk and branches, which bear the unmistakable marks of its extraordinarily long life.
A mountain deity is enshrined at the base of the tree, providing a glimpse into the deep connection between this ancient cedar and the religious traditions of the local community.
Because of its distinctive appearance and spiritual significance, Kosugi no Osugi has been given several affectionate names. It is also known as the “Married Couple Cedar,” “Tree of Good Relationships,” and “Tree of Children and Family Blessings.”
These names reflect local beliefs in the tree’s connection with love, marriage, harmonious relationships, and wishes for children. It is also called the “Kuragawa Great Cedar” and the “Cedar of Good Relationships,” and remains an important symbol of Sakegawa Village.
Kosugi no Osugi has been designated as a cultural property and natural monument of Sakegawa Village in recognition of its remarkable age and value.
The tree is much more than simply a large and old cedar. Its cultural importance comes from its connection with local legends, religious beliefs, and the traditions of the people who have protected it for generations.
The natural surroundings of Kosugi no Osugi are another part of its appeal. In spring, the tree is surrounded by fresh green foliage and vibrant vegetation. During summer, the deep forest provides a cool and peaceful setting, while autumn brings colorful foliage to the surrounding trees.
Visitors can admire the unusual shape that nature has created over many centuries while taking in the quiet atmosphere of the forest. The experience offers a chance to slow down and appreciate the remarkable vitality of an ancient tree.
The Kosugi no Osugi area receives heavy snowfall. From approximately late November through early April, roads leading to the parking area may be closed because of accumulated snow. Visitors planning a winter trip should check the latest road conditions in advance.
There are also private properties in the surrounding area. Please respect signs and do not enter areas where access is prohibited.
The site can become particularly busy during extended holiday periods such as Golden Week in spring and Silver Week in autumn. If you would like to enjoy the tree at a leisurely pace, allowing plenty of time for your visit is recommended.
Kosugi no Osugi, also known as the “Totoro Tree,” is a mysterious giant cedar estimated to be around 1,000 years old. Despite its immense age, it continues to stand proudly in the forest, demonstrating the enduring power of nature.
Its appeal lies not only in its charming resemblance to Totoro, but also in the legends, religious traditions, and natural heritage associated with the tree. Standing beneath the giant cedar and looking up at its enormous branches offers a memorable opportunity to experience the vitality of a tree that has grown and endured for centuries.
For travelers exploring Yamagata’s rural landscapes, Kosugi no Osugi is a distinctive natural and spiritual attraction and one of Sakegawa Village’s symbolic power spots.