Yamagata

Welcome to Yamagata! This large prefecture is located along the Sea of Japan in the southwest of the Tohoku region. Yamagata is widely recognized for its nature, especially the spectacular snow-covered trees referred to as “snow monsters.” The prefecture is also known for its agricultural products. Yamagata Prefecture is the largest producer of cherries and pears in Japan. A large number of other kinds of fruits such as grapes, apples, peaches, melons, persimmons, and watermelons are also produced. Yamagata Prefecture is accessible via bullet train from Tokyo. Alternatively, you can fly to Sendai Airport in nearby Miyagi Prefecture and take local trains into the area

Destinations

Yamagata Prefecture has four main regions. The Murayama region is home to the prefectural capital, Yamagata city that hosts onsen towns such as Ginzan Onsen and Zao Onsen. The Okitama region is known for its Yonezawa beef. The Mogami District is where visitors can relish in abundant nature, and the Shonai region offers the freshest seafood from the sea.

Group Meals

We arrange a wide array of meal choices for you, from Japanese traditional set meals, all you can eat, to local and seasonal specialties. Join us in exploring the taste of Japan!

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Local Specialty

Different regions have their own traditional recipes and agricultural farming system. Many of the regional dishes can only be tasted in the original area they came from.

Imoni

A Japanese stew consisting of sato imo (mountain potatoes), vegetables (taro root, konnyaku, green onions), and thin slices of beef or pork. The ingredients are slowly cooked in a sweetened soy sauce broth. This soup is traditionally eaten in the autumn in the Tohoku region, particularly Yamagata. Tourists flock to Yamagata for Imoni Festival where a massive six-meter cauldron of imoni is served for 30,000 guests.

Yonezawa Beef

Along with Matsusaka Beef and Kobe Beef, Yonezawa Beef is said to be one of the top three Wagyu beef brands in Japan. The rich flavor and marbling of Yonezawa beef is the result of a long-term fattening method in which cows are raised on a diet of rice straw. The drastic differences between day/night time in Yamagata resulted in a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth meat texture. The best way to enjoy Yonezawa Beef is sukiyaki.

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Experience

Whether this is your first time visiting, or returning, make sure to participate in these unique activities, that cannot be done elsewhere!

Onsen (Hot Springs)

Yamagata has the prettiest onsen in the country–Ginzan onsen, and the legendary Kaminoyama Onsen. Ginzan Onsen, which literally means silver mountain, is located in an isolated area between the mountains and lined with traditional buildings. The view is extremely breathtaking and unforgettable. Soaking in a hot spring reduces stress and improves sleep quality.

Cherry Picking

Cherries were introduced to Yamagata in 1876, and the prefecture now produces 70 percent of all Japan’s cherries. Yamagata cherries are large, juicy, and very sweet, and have a long shelf life. Depending on the program, the all-you-can-pick cherry session costs around 1,000-3,000 yen. Cherry-picking season is best enjoyed in late May or early June.

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