Explore Yamagata: 23 Popular Sightseeing Spots

Yamadera, officially known as "Hojusan Risshakuji," is a historic temple of the Tendai Buddhist sect. It is home to the "Konpon Chudo," Japan's oldest temple building made of beech wood and designated as an Important Cultural Property. The temple complex features about 1,000 stone steps leading to the Oku-no-In (Inner Sanctuary), with various temple halls situated along the path. One of the highlights is the "Nokyodo," the oldest structure in Yamadera, dramatically perched atop a steep rock. The famous haiku poet Matsuo Basho composed his renowned poem, "Silence, and the cicadas’ cry sinks into the rocks," during his visit here. This power spot in Yamagata Prefecture is said to sever bad ties and foster good ones.

The Yamagata Prefectural Museum "Bunshokan" is a historic building constructed in the Meiji Era, originally serving as the Yamagata Prefectural Office. It features stunning Neo-Renaissance architecture, with a striking contrast of red bricks and white stone. Inside, you’ll find fascinating exhibits about Yamagata’s history and culture, including traditional crafts and folklore materials. The well-maintained garden offers a beautiful view of seasonal nature. Bunshokan is also a popular filming location for movies due to its captivating design.

The Zao Ropeway connects three stations in the Zao Onsen area of Yamagata City: Zao Sanroku Station, Juhyo Kogen Station, and Jizo Sancho Station. In summer, it welcomes tourists and hikers, while in winter, it attracts skiers and visitors eager to admire the stunning snow monsters (frost-covered trees). The Sanroku Line runs from Zao Sanroku Station to Juhyo Kogen Station in approximately 7 minutes. The Sancho Line connects Juhyo Kogen Station to Jizo Sancho Station in about 10 minutes. Enjoy breathtaking views throughout the year, including:

Spring: Witness the fresh greenery sprouting as the snow melts.
Summer: Experience the "Summer Night Cruising," where you can gaze at countless stars under the refreshing evening breeze.
Autumn: Marvel at the vivid autumn foliage from above.
Winter: Observe the rare phenomenon of snow monsters, illuminated during the spectacular "Juhyo Light-Up."

At Jizo Sancho Station, there is a sky-high restaurant where you can dine while enjoying panoramic views of the ever-changing natural beauty.

Kamo Aquarium, the only aquarium in Yamagata Prefecture, is renowned for its extensive jellyfish exhibits, earning it the nickname "Jellyfish Dream Pavilion." The main attraction is the "Jellyfish Dream Theater," a 5-meter-wide tank that is among the largest in the world. Inside, around 2,000 moon jellyfish drift gracefully. The aquarium's restaurant offers unique jellyfish-based dishes, such as Jellyfish Ramen and Jellyfish Ice Cream, which are both healthy and popular among visitors. With over 50 species of jellyfish on display, the aquarium holds a Guinness World Record. Don't miss the "Jellyfish Ice Cream," famous for its crunchy texture that is surprisingly addictive!

The Haguro Five-Story Pagoda stands elegantly at a height of 29 meters, with its extended eaves resembling the wings of a swan in flight. Originally constructed during the Heian Period by Taira no Masakado, it was reconstructed approximately 600 years ago. This pagoda is the only National Treasure-designated structure in Yamagata Prefecture. Its beauty harmonizes with the scenery throughout the four seasons, and the sight of the pagoda covered in snow is especially popular. Nearby, you'll find the "Grandpa Cedar," a massive tree over 1,000 years old. The serene and majestic atmosphere of the area perfectly complements this National Treasure, with the snow-adorned pagoda offering a mystical charm.

Uesugi Shrine, dedicated to the legendary warlord Uesugi Kenshin, was established in the early Meiji period on the site of the main keep of Yonezawa Castle. It continues to serve as a spiritual hub for the people of Yonezawa, drawing many visitors during New Year's celebrations and other events. The annual "Yonezawa Uesugi Festival" takes place from April 29th, Kenshin's memorial day, to May 3rd. The shrine's treasure hall, Keishoden, houses a rich collection of cultural artifacts related to the Uesugi clan. This is a must-see destination for history enthusiasts.

Takahata Town, known as the "Land of Mahoroba," is the largest producer of Delaware grapes in Japan. Located here, Takahata Winery is renowned for crafting wines that highlight the unique characteristics of its grapes and the region's climate. The winery has won numerous awards at various competitions. Its signature wine, Mahoroba no Kifujin ("The Noble Lady of Mahoroba"), is known for its elegant and pleasantly sweet flavor. Visitors can enjoy a free tour of the winery, purchase exclusive wines available only at the winery shop, and try a wide variety of wine samples!

Located at the foot of Mount Gassan, Studio Sedic Shonai Open Set is a vast outdoor filming location that has hosted numerous movies and TV dramas. Visitors can stroll through different themed areas, such as a fishing village, farming village, post town, and a Sengoku-era castle gate area. The site was also used for filming the popular series "The Hero Yoshihiko." Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of iconic films and historical settings!

Built in 1893, Sankyo Soko is a historic rice storage facility and a symbolic landmark of Shonai, Japan's renowned rice-producing region. These nine white-walled storehouses, capable of holding over 10,000 tons of rice, still operate today. The rows of zelkova trees behind the warehouses are a testament to traditional methods for mitigating summer heat. Visitors can explore the Sakata Tourism and Souvenir Center "Sakata Yume-no-Kura", located within the facility. The warehouses were also a filming location for the famous Japanese TV drama Oshin. The zelkova-lined walkway behind the warehouses is a must-see for its impressive size and charm.

Founded in 1947, the Homma Museum of Art was established to inspire hope and pride in people during the post-war period through Japanese art appreciation. The museum features a wide range of exhibitions, including ancient and modern art as well as historical artifacts. In addition to its permanent collection, special exhibitions are held regularly, offering visitors a variety of experiences. Admission also includes access to the nationally designated scenic spot, the Homma Clan's Detached Residence Garden (Tsurumai Garden), and the Seienkaku Residence. The museum showcases an impressive collection of calligraphy, sculptures, and local historical materials, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts.

Nestled quietly in the mountains, Wakamatsu Temple has long been cherished under the name "Wakamatsu Kannon." It is renowned as a temple for blessings in love and relationships. Recently, a nationwide rumor has spread that "shaking hands with the chief priest leads to success in love," making it an even more famous and powerful matchmaking spot. The "Three Temple Pilgrimage of Dewa," which includes this temple, is especially popular among young women. Many celebrities have also shared stories of finding love after visiting and shaking hands with the priest!

Experience the majestic flow of the Mogami River, famously immortalized in the haiku by Matsuo Basho: "Gathering summer rains, it swiftly flows—the Mogami River." The Mogami Gorge Basho Line Boat Cruise offers a serene journey along this iconic river. Relax on a traditional boat as you enjoy stunning views, accompanied by the boatman's melodious songs and engaging stories. The cruise spans approximately 12 km from Furukuchi Port (the former Tozawa Domain Boat Guard Station) to Kusanagi Port, taking about 1 hour. This delightful activity is available year-round. In winter, you can enjoy the special kotatsu boats—boats equipped with heated tables to keep you cozy while admiring the snowy scenery. Perfect for solo travelers too—don’t miss this unique experience!

Yusa Town is renowned for its abundant natural spring water, and Doburoku Falls stands out as one of its most famous attractions. The falls are fed by underground streams from Mt. Chokai, creating a mesmerizing sight as water gushes out from the mountainside. The name "Doburoku" reflects this unique phenomenon. This spot is also revered as a shrine dedicated to a deity of safe childbirth. The water here is highly praised for its taste, attracting not only locals but also visitors from afar. Nestled within a tranquil cedar forest, the area features two waterfalls separated by a small sacred grove. The left waterfall is said to pair perfectly with coffee, while the right one complements Japanese green tea. The serene and mystical atmosphere of the site is ideal for rejuvenating both body and soul.

Juroku Rakan Iwa are a group of stone-carved Buddhist figures created in 1868 by the head priest of Fukuura Kaizen Temple. They were built to honor the spirits of fishermen who lost their lives to the rough waves of the Sea of Japan and to pray for maritime safety. In total, there are 22 statues, including the 16 Rakan (disciples of Buddha). This site is a valuable historical and cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view from the observation deck, which also features monuments engraved with poems. The spot is especially stunning at sunset. Every year in late July, the "Juroku Rakan Festival" is held, and during this time, the statues are beautifully illuminated at night. The location has been selected as one of the "Top 100 Historical and Cultural Heritage Sites in Japan."

Sagae City is known as "Japan's No. 1 Cherry Town," and Michi-no-Eki Sagae Cherry Land is a facility that highlights this specialty. It offers a wide variety of seasonal products and crafts from across Yamagata Prefecture, with a special focus on cherries. Visitors can also explore Japan’s first Cherry Museum, which provides insights into cherry cultivation and history. Don’t miss the famous handmade ice creams, featuring cherry flavors, premium Yamagata rice ("Tsuyahime") ice cream, and over 10 types of fruit-based ice cream. You’ll find plenty of souvenirs and food options, but our top recommendations are Yamagata gelato and kebabs.

Kajo Park, a beautifully maintained urban park built on the site of Yamagata Castle, is a designated National Historic Site and a popular spot for cherry blossoms and sightseeing. Yamagata Castle, once the largest flatland castle in the Tohoku region, featured three concentric moats and earthen walls surrounding its Honmaru, Ninomaru, and Sannomaru areas. The castle's origins date back to 1356 when Kaneyori Shiba, the first lord of the Mogami clan, established it. The current structure largely reflects the design of Yoshiaki Mogami, the 11th lord, during its peak prosperity of 570,000 koku. The castle was also nicknamed "Kasumi-ga-jo" (Castle in the Mist) due to its strategic concealment during the Hasedo Battle, a local counterpart to the famous Sekigahara Battle. The Higashi-Otemon Gate, reminiscent of the gates of Edo Castle, has been used as a filming location for movies and commercials.

Ginzan Onsen, famously featured in Japanese dramas and anime, is one of the most popular hot spring towns in the Tohoku region. The town is known for its charming atmosphere, with traditional wooden inns from the Taisho era (1912–1926) lining both sides of a river that runs through the heart of the town. The best time to visit is winter when the snow-covered scenery harmonizes beautifully with the warm glow of the town's gas lamps at night. The soft lights illuminating the retro architecture against the snow create a magical, dreamlike ambiance.

Yonezawa Castle, a circular fortification consisting of Honmaru (main compound), Ninomaru (second compound), and Sannomaru (third compound), is the birthplace of Date Masamune, a famous feudal lord. It served as the residence of the Date family for approximately 200 years until it was taken by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. During the Edo period, it became the administrative center of the Yonezawa Domain, home to historical figures such as Uesugi Kagekatsu and Uesugi Yozan. Today, the Honmaru site houses the Uesugi Shrine, while the Ninomaru site features the Yonezawa Uesugi Museum (formerly the Uesugi Count's Residence). The Matsugasaki Shrine, dedicated to Uesugi Yozan, is located nearby. Additionally, the Yonezawa Library preserves maps of the castle town from 1725 (Kyōhō era) and 1811 (Bunka era).

The Sakata Seafood Market is conveniently located right next to Sakata Port and offers fresh, delicious seafood caught in the Sea of Japan. On the first floor, Sugawara Fish Shop specializes in locally sourced fish and provides cooking advice. They also offer convenient packaging services for takeout. The eat-in corner, Kuikoiya Wan, opened in December 2016 and provides a casual space to enjoy fresh seafood dishes. On the second floor, the restaurant Kaisen Donya Tobishima serves meals like seafood rice bowls and boat-style platters. While dining, you can enjoy stunning views of Sakata Port. The wood deck and terrace also offer panoramic views, making it a great spot to watch the Tobishima ferry depart.

Tamasudare Waterfall, discovered and named over 1,200 years ago by the revered Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi following a divine revelation, is a must-visit natural wonder in Sakata City. With a height of 63 meters and a width of 5 meters, this stunning waterfall cascades straight down from a steep cliff, offering a breathtaking spectacle of nature's power. The waterfall is especially enchanting during its night illumination events held during Japan's Golden Week (early May) and the Obon season (mid-August), when the waterfall is bathed in magical lights, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. In winter, from late January to mid-February, visitors can witness the rare phenomenon of a frozen waterfall, known as "Hyobaku," which transforms the falls into a spectacular icy sculpture. Tamasudare Waterfall is a place of beauty that changes with the seasons—perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a unique experience in Japan.

Yonezawa City, nestled in Japan's Tohoku region, is blessed with abundant mountain spring water, high-quality rice, and a stable low-temperature climate—perfect for sake brewing. For over 400 years, Kojima Sohonten, the brewery behind the renowned sake "Toko," has been crafting exceptional sake in this area. A distinguished sake brewery, it once served as the purveyor to the Uesugi clan and was the only brewery allowed to produce sake during the Edo period, even when sake-making was otherwise prohibited due to rice shortages during famines. Just a short walk from Kojima Sohonten, you'll find the "Sake Brewery Museum: Toko no Sakagura," one of the largest sake museums in the Tohoku region. Inside, visitors can experience the charm of a sake brewery from the Meiji era. The museum showcases a variety of traditional tools passed down through generations, used for sake brewing. The brewing cellar, a former production site, has been transformed into an immersive exhibit that vividly recreates the sake-making process of the past. The museum also features an on-site shop operated directly by the brewery. Visitors can enjoy free tastings of select sake or try premium and award-winning varieties for a small fee. With guidance from the knowledgeable staff, you can discover a sake that perfectly suits your palate, creating a memorable part of your trip.

Nestled along a mountain stream, the Zao Onsen Open-Air Bath is one of the most popular hot spring facilities in the Zao Onsen area. This large open-air bath can accommodate up to 200 people at once. The upper part of the bath is for women, while the lower part is for men, following the flow of the stream. Surrounded by lush forests, the bath features pools made from natural stones, offering two types of hot springs: a warm bath and a hot bath. Relax and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere while enjoying the breathtaking natural scenery.

Experience the rich history and natural beauty of Zao Onsen, believed to have been established over 1,900 years ago and recognized as one of Yamagata Prefecture's oldest hot springs. This highly acidic sulfur spring is renowned for its health benefits, including relief from cuts, burns, chronic skin diseases, diabetes, high blood pressure, and arteriosclerosis. Known as the "Hot Spring for Beautiful Skin," it has been cherished for centuries. At Shinzaemon-no-Yu, you can immerse yourself in 100% natural hot spring water directly sourced from the spring. Enjoy the open-air baths while taking in the breathtaking seasonal views of the Zao mountains. For those with sensitive skin, there are gentler bathing options such as "Shi-Roku no Yu" and "Kame Yu," as well as indoor baths. Relax and rejuvenate in a setting designed to provide tranquility for all visitors.