Explore the hidden charms of Yamagata Prefecture! Travel Writer Kasumi’s Footsteps and Impressive Experiences
- Experience the beautiful scenery and history of Yamagata Prefecture
- What is Yamagata Prefecture? Its charm seen from basic information
- Cherry picking experience! Yamagata boasts the largest shipment volume in Japan
- Enjoy the snowy scenery of Yamagata while soaking in a hot spring
- Deep dive into the traditions and culture of Yamagata Prefecture
- Enjoy the delicious gourmet food of Yamagata Prefecture
- Introducing hidden spots in Yamagata Prefecture
- summary
- Historical building chosen by Kasumi
Experience the beautiful scenery and history of Yamagata Prefecture
What is Yamagata Prefecture? Its charm seen from basic information
My name is Kasumi, a travel web writer who has traveled all over Japan. Of all the 47 prefectures I have visited, Yamagata has won my heart with its unique charm. Yamagata Prefecture is located in the Tohoku region, and is an area with rich natural scenery and ancient traditions and culture. Here, while introducing the basic information, we will delve deeper into the charm of Yamagata Prefecture.
Superb view! Goshikinuma, an art created by nature
Goshikinuma is a group of beautiful lakes and marshes in Yamagata Prefecture, and its beauty can be said to be top class in Japan. When I visited this place, I was simply amazed at its beauty. Goshiki-numa has different colors depending on the season, so you can discover something new every time you visit. The fresh greenery of spring and the foliage of autumn are particularly recommended times. Many tourists come from all over Japan during the peak of autumn leaves.
Cherry picking experience! Yamagata boasts the largest shipment volume in Japan
Did you know that Yamagata Prefecture is the number one producer of cherries in Japan? On average, Yamagata Prefecture ships about 20,000 tons of cherries annually, accounting for about 60% of the total in Japan. I actually tried picking cherries, but the sweetness and juiciness are exceptional. In particular, “Sato Nishiki”, which is famous as a specialty product, has an unforgettable taste once you eat it.
Enjoy the snowy scenery of Yamagata while soaking in a hot spring
Japan is dotted with many hot spring resorts, but Yamagata Prefecture’s “Shonai Plain” and “Zao Onsen” are special spots where you can enjoy the snowy scenery in winter. I actually enjoyed the snow viewing bath at Zao Onsen, and I still can’t forget the excitement I felt at that time. Relaxing in the warm water while it is snowing is the real pleasure of winter in Japan.
Yamagata Prefecture is packed with many attractions such as beautiful nature, historical buildings, and traditional culture. I would be happy if you could touch the charm of Yamagata Prefecture even a little through this article of mine. Next, we will delve deeper into the traditional culture and cuisine of Yamagata Prefecture.
Deep dive into the traditions and culture of Yamagata Prefecture
Tour the historic Yamagata Castle
Yamagata Castle is a historical building that has existed since the Warring States period and can be said to be a symbol of Yamagata Prefecture. When I visited, I was overwhelmed by its majestic appearance. Inside the castle, you can learn about the historical background, the lifestyle of the time, and historical events, making it a must-see spot for history lovers. In addition, there is a beautiful garden around the castle, where you can enjoy the beauty of each season.
The charm of the traditional craft “Yamagata Zaiku”
Yamagata Prefecture is known for its traditional handicraft “Yamagata Zaiku”. These are metal handicrafts that are made using fine techniques. In particular, there are many practical items such as teaspoon and chopstick rests, which are very popular as souvenirs.
Enjoy the fireworks display and summer in Yamagata
When you think of summer, you think of fireworks festivals. I was also looking forward to the fireworks display in Yamagata Prefecture. The “Shonai Fireworks Festival” held every summer is famous for its scale and beauty. The large fireworks that last for tens of minutes fascinate the viewers. This fireworks display is the largest event in Yamagata Prefecture, attracting an average of over 300,000 tourists.
The traditions and culture of Yamagata Prefecture have been nurtured along with its long history. Each place and event is filled with the thoughts and efforts of the local people, and leaves a deep impression on visitors.
Enjoy the delicious gourmet food of Yamagata Prefecture
Enjoy the taste of winter “Yamagata Beef”
Speaking of Yamagata Prefecture, you can’t miss “Yamagata Beef”. Its softness and deep flavor set it apart from other beef. When I visited, I also enjoyed Yamagata beef steak at the famous restaurant “Niku no Sato”. Once you taste the exquisite taste, you will never forget it.
Have a drink with the local sake “Kajo Senbei”
“Kajo Senbei” is a traditional local sake from Yamagata Prefecture, and you can enjoy its deep flavor. I also enjoyed local gourmet food with this local sake at a local izakaya. In particular, the “Yamagata dashimaki tamago”, which goes well with this sake, is recommended for its mellow taste.
Yamagata Prefecture is a region where you can enjoy not only the beauty of nature, but also many foods and cultures. I would be happy if everyone could feel the charm through my travel experience.
Introducing hidden spots in Yamagata Prefecture
The Mystery of Ou’s Paradise “Mt. Gassan”
“Mt. Gassan” is known as a famous mountain in Yamagata Prefecture, and is a spot with beautiful nature and a mysterious atmosphere. When I visited, I was particularly moved by Gassan Shrine, which is located at an altitude of 1,500m. I was able to worship while feeling divine in the clean air. In addition, seasonal flowers bloom on the mountain trail, and you can enjoy hiking.
The legendary lake “Midagahara Marsh”
Yamagata Prefecture has many beautiful lakes and wetlands, but among them, the Midagahara Wetland is especially recommended. Legend has it that a dragon lives in this lake. In fact, I also felt a fantastic beauty in the scenery reflected on the surface of the lake. In addition, many animals and plants inhabit the surrounding area, and you can enjoy nature observation.
Sunflower field in Higashine
When visiting in the summer, we recommend visiting the sunflower fields in Higashine City, Yamagata Prefecture. Hundreds of thousands of sunflowers are in full bloom here, just like a golden carpet. I was so overwhelmed by its beauty that I forgot to take a picture.
summary
In Yamagata Prefecture, there are not only famous sightseeing spots, but also many hidden spots that are known only to those in the know. When you travel, please visit these spots and feel the deep charm of Yamagata Prefecture.
Thank you for reading to the end. I tried to fully convey the charm of Yamagata prefecture. Please come and experience the beauty and charm of Yamagata prefecture yourself. I hope my article will be of some help to you.
Historical building chosen by Kasumi
Yamagata Prefecture is a place where you can feel the history and culture of Japan. And many historical buildings live on the land. This time, I would like to introduce five historical buildings in Yamagata Prefecture that particularly impressed Kasumi.
Yamagata Castle (Yamagata City)
Kasumi Point: Yamagata Castle was built during the Warring States period, and is a castle where many successive feudal lords lived. The beauty of the castle tower and stone walls, as well as the vast gardens, are especially worth seeing. Its beauty stands out even more during the seasons of cherry blossoms in spring and colored leaves in autumn.
Zaodo (Sagae City)
Kasumi Point: Zao-do, designated as a national treasure, is an ancient temple known for its architecture from the Heian period. The stately wooden architecture and the quiet precincts leave a deep impression on visitors.
Risshakuji Temple (Tateishi Town)
Kasumi Point: This beautiful temple with its back to the mountains is in harmony with the nature of each season. In particular, the view from the precincts and the atmosphere of the stone steps that have been handed down from ancient times have become tourist attractions along with their historical value.
Hagurosan five-storied pagoda (Tsuruoka City)
Kasumi Point: This five-storied pagoda is the tallest in Yamagata Prefecture, and its majestic appearance can be seen clearly even from a distance. At night, it is lit up and you can enjoy a fantastic scenery.
Tozawa Castle Ruins (Tozawa Town)
Kasumi Point: Tozawa Castle once prospered as the residence of the feudal lord Tozawa. Today, it has been turned into a park as a castle ruin, but the vestiges of it still remain and you can feel its history.
These historical buildings are treasures that convey the long history and culture of Yamagata Prefecture. When you visit, you will be able to experience a deeper impression by learning about its history and background.
