Deep in the mountains surrounded with beautifull nature the Semi hotsprings are believed to be found by Musashibo Benkei who was chased by Minamotono Yoshitsune's older brother Minamotono Yoritomo. Many historical ruins dealing with Yoshitsune are located around this area giving it a historically nostalgic and romantic surroundings. The Oguni river is famous for its Matsubara-ayu (ayu=river fish much like the trout) this fish is know for its beauty and is loved by fisermen all over Japan. Among the cultural treasures in this area there is the house where the famous Haiku-poet Matsuo Basyou and his students stayed for a couple of days , the number 1 ranked Matsu-tree (pine tree) in the nation. If nature and history are your passions this is the hotspring to visit.

Kamewarikoyasu Goddess of Mercy Running from Yoritomo's case Kitano lady who accompanied Yoshitsune was blessed by this goddess. Benkei also prayed to this goddess for a healthy child. The shrine is surrounded by Japanese cedar giving it a quiet but nice surrounding.

Yumae Shrine The protective god of the Semi hotspring founded by Benkei in 1187 (Bunei period 3rd year) Yoshitsune's son Kowakamaru took its first baby bath here, every year this is celebrated on 9/1.

Houjin's House The famous Haiku-poet Matsuo Basyou and his student Sora stayed here where he got the inspirations for the song, "Flees flees , horse piss at my pillow" The architecture is a typical wide living area housing for the time period and the name means "The house of the gardians of the border" It is believed to be built in the Edo period and is claimed as a national cultural treasure.

For details :
Tourism Bureau of Mogami-chou Yamagata-prefecture, Mogami-gun, Mogami-chou, Oaza Mukaimachi 644, zip 999-61 TEL 0233-43-2111