Yamagata Hidden Gems
Mountain temples, cherry orchards and one of Japan's highest densities of hot springs, ringed by the sacred Dewa Sanzan peaks.
4 spots
Climate & Best Season
Hot, humid summers in the basin (among Japan's hottest records) and deep winter snow in the mountains. Cherries in June, snow monsters in February.
Famous For (Food)
- Cherries
- Yonezawa beef
- Imoni (taro stew)
- Cold ramen
Signature Sights
- Yamadera (Risshaku-ji)
- Dewa Sanzan pilgrimage
- Ginzan Onsen
- Zao snow monsters
Kajo Park — Yamagata Castle Ruins and Cherry Blossoms
Kajo Park occupies the site of Yamagata Castle, once one of the largest feudal castles in the Tohoku region. Built in th…
Yamagata Hina Dolls — Historic March Doll Festival
The Hina Matsuri (雛祭り, Girls' Day or Doll Festival) on March 3rd is celebrated throughout Japan, but Yamagata takes spec…
Kumano Taisha Shrine — Giant Thatch Roof and Rabbit Deity
Kumano Taisha is a Shinto shrine founded over 1,200 years ago, famous for its massive thatched roof (茅葺屋根, kayabuki-yane…
Bunshokan — Taisho-Era Red Brick Cultural Hall
The Bunshokan (文翔館) is a Western-style brick building constructed in 1916 to serve as the Yamagata Prefectural Office an…