Yamagata is one of those places where you get to go on winter and do some downhill skiing or snowboarding at mt.Zao, after your day out in the snow, when you finally feel tired, maybe even a bit cold if you have faceplanted too much in the snow, you can go to zao onsen and enjoy yourself at the hot springs there, feel how all stress and ache is melted away by the hot water. At summer you can also come to relax to one of the many onsens at Ginzan onsen willage or enjoy the Yamagata Hanagasa dance Festival.
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Ginzan Onsen
An “onsen” village developed when “Ginzan” (The Silver Mountain mine) was flourishing. The nostalgic atmosphere created by the early Showa Era buildings standing alongside the river attracts tourists.
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Yamagata Hanagasa Festival
Performers dance through the city’s major streets while holding “hanagasa” which are patterned after the prefectural flower, the safflower. The elegance and dynamism of the dancers makes it one of the best summer festivals in the Tohoku region.
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Kajo Park
Kajo Park was built on the site of Kajo Castle which had been originally constructed in 1357. Selected as one of Japan`s Top 100 Castles, the surviving outer citadel has been recognized as a National Historic Site. Within its 35.9ha, you will see many cultural facilities including Yamagata Civic Hall, Yamagata Prefectural Museum, and the Yamagata Museum of Art. There is a splendid display of cherry blossoms in mid-April.
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Yamagata Marugoto-kan Beni-no-Kura
Under the theme of “seasonal products and seasonal dishes”, foods rich in Yamagata flavor are offered. Special products are sold in buildings refurbished from five old storehouses formerly owned by feudal clans and visitors can taste meals created from fresh local ingredients. As well, local sake, brand sweets and traditional handicrafts are sold and tourist information is provided. Finally, free rental cycles are also available.
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Zao Onsen
Tohoku’s foremost onsen resort has a history of 1900 years. In this onsen village where the large natural environment of Mt. Zao spreads out, you can enjoy nature walks, and a stroll through the village which has kept its old-fashioned atmosphere. Zao Onsen is famous for its “waters for beautiful skin” which promote blood circulation and good skin. There are also plenty of winter sports held during the season.
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Mt. Zao
Located on the border between Miyagi and Yamagata Prefectures, Mt. Zao is a mountain range with Mt. Kumano as the highest peak located in Yamagata. Also known as a grand natural resort area, it has onsen as well as many places for winter sports. In January and February, you can view the mysterious scenery of the “juhyo”, pine trees enveloped in snow and ice.
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