Spots List

Filter

Filter

Prefecture

    Confirm

    Category

    Season

    Zao Onsen
    Yamagata

    Zao Onsen

    Yamagata’s pride, Zao Onsen, is one of Japan's most prominent ancient hot spring towns with a 1,900-year history. Known as the "Springs of Beauty" due to its highly acidic waters, it is also a premier mountain resort where visitors can enjoy world-famous "Snow Monsters" (frost-covered trees) and vast ski slopes in winter. The charming town, filled with rising steam, traditional inns, and public baths, continues to fascinate travelers from around the globe with its seasonal beauty, local cuisine, and restorative waters that heal the body and soul.

    • Yamagata
    • Sightseeing
    • Accommodation
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
    • Winter
    Yamagata Prefecture
    Yamagata

    Yamagata Prefecture

    Yamagata offers a perfect mix of spiritual heritage and scenic beauty. Climb the sacred Dewa Sanzan mountains, visit the temple of Yamadera perched on a hillside, or soak in the nostalgic hot spring town of Ginzan Onsen. The region is also famous for its sweet cherries, La France pears, and hearty local cuisine.

    • Yamagata
    • Area Info
    • Sightseeing
    • Accommodation
    • Food
    • Activities
    • Nature
    • Festivals & Events
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
    • Winter
    Mount Yudono (Dewa Sanzan)
    Yamagata

    Mount Yudono (Dewa Sanzan)

    Mount Yudono, the ultimate sacred site representing the "Future" (new life) within Yamagata's Dewa Sanzan, follows a mystical ancient rule: "Do not speak, do not ask." Visitors enter the hallowed grounds barefoot, feeling the divine realm directly against their skin. It preserves an extremely rare form of nature worship where, instead of a main shrine building, visitors worship a giant reddish-brown rock from which hot spring water gushes—revered as the very source of life. Surrounded by the silence of a steep ravine, one can reflect deeply and undergo a powerful spiritual experience akin to the rebirth of the soul. For...

    • Yamagata
    • Sightseeing
    • Nature
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
    Mount Gassan (Dewa Sanzan)
    Yamagata

    Mount Gassan (Dewa Sanzan)

    Mount Gassan, standing 1,984 meters at the center of Yamagata Prefecture, is a sacred peak representing the "Past" (the world of the afterlife) as part of the Dewa Sanzan mountains. For centuries, it has been a center for deep mountain worship where white-clad ascetics (Yamabushi) undertake the "journey of rebirth." Beyond its spirituality, it offers perennial snow that allows for summer skiing and marshes filled with rare alpine plants. The magnificent panoramic view from Gassan Shrine at the summit, overlooking the Sea of Japan and the Shonai Plain, combines mystical silence with an overwhelming scale of landscape. For international travelers...

    • Yamagata
    • Sightseeing
    • Nature
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
    Yamagata City
    Yamagata

    Yamagata City

    Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture, is a captivating destination where deep historical heritage—such as Yamadera (Ryakusheji Temple), with its breathtaking views at the top of over 1,000 stone steps, and the Yamagata Castle Ruins (Kajo Park), with its grand restored gates—coexists with overwhelming natural beauty like Zao Onsen, home to mystical "Snow Monsters" in winter and sulfur springs renowned for their skin-beautifying effects. Visitors can also indulge in seasonal gourmet delights, including Japan's top-produced sweet cherries, melt-in-your-mouth Yamagata Beef, and the traditional autumn riverside dish "Imoni" (taro soup). It is one of Tohoku's premier destinations, where you can experience traditional Japanese...

    • Yamagata
    • Area Info
    • Sightseeing
    • Food
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
    • Winter
    Zao Snow Monsters (Juhyo of Mount Zao)
    Yamagata

    Zao Snow Monsters (Juhyo of Mount Zao)

    The Juhyo — or “Snow Monsters” — are a world-famous natural wonder created by the unique weather and vegetation of the Zao Mountain Range.These ice-covered trees, born from the power of nature, are a true treasure of Yamagata.Their breathtaking beauty attracts visitors from around the globe, eager to witness this phenomenon with their own eyes.Be sure to experience the magical transformation of the Juhyo as they change from day to night.

    • Yamagata
    • Sightseeing
    • Winter
    Zao
    Yamagata

    Zao

    Yamagata Zao is one of Japan's premier year-round resorts, where you can simultaneously enjoy dynamic nature and historic hot springs.The biggest winter highlight is the "Juhyo" (Snow Monsters), a rare natural masterpiece found in only a few places worldwide. The sight of conifers covered in snow and ice, transforming into giant monster-like figures, is breathtaking, and the nighttime illumination is truly mystical. It is also a famous ski resort; on courses stretching up to 10km, you can have the special experience of skiing right through the Snow Monsters.At the foot of the mountain lies Zao Onsen, a renowned hot spring...

    • Yamagata
    • Sightseeing
    • Accommodation
    • Food
    • Activities
    • Nature
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
    • Winter
    Shinjo Higashiyama Yaki
    Yamagata

    Shinjo Higashiyama Yaki

    Traditional pottery from Shinjo City, Yamagata Prefecture, known for its simple elegance, soft glaze, and the warmth of handmade craftsmanship.

    • Yamagata
    • Sightseeing
    Nitta Textile Art Inc
    Yamagata

    Nitta Textile Art Inc

    A traditional textile company from Yonezawa, Yamagata, known for its craftsmanship in silk weaving and natural dyeing.

    • Yamagata
    • Sightseeing
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
    • Winter
    Goshōgake Onsen
    Akita

    Goshōgake Onsen

    Goshōgake Onsen, located in Hachimantai, Akita Prefecture, is a single-inn hot spring resort known as a tōji-ba (hot spring cure resort) since ancient times.Its main feature is $9text{ unique}$ and highly effective baths, including the famous "Doroyu" (Mud Bath) where volcanic mud is applied to the entire body, as well as Box Steam Baths (Hako-Mushiburo) and Waterfall Baths (Utase-yu). Nearby, the Goshōgake Nature Research Trail—where steam and mud erupt—offers a dynamic geothermal area for walking, often called the "Yellowstone of Japan."It is also an ideal base for sightseeing along the Hachimantai Aspite Line, allowing visitors to enjoy both hot spring...

    • Akita
    • Sightseeing
    • Accommodation
    • Nature
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
    Fukenoyu Onsen, Fukenoyu
    Akita

    Fukenoyu Onsen, Fukenoyu

    Located at an altitude of approximately $1,100text{ meters}$ in Hachimantai, Fuke-no-yu Onsen is the oldest established hot spring in the Hachimantai Onsen Village. It features $2text{ types}$ of source springs and an ondol (geothermal floor heating) area for heat therapy, and is known as the "Hot Spring for Conception."The outdoor mixed-gender bath features $3text{ types}$ of tubs—a square box bath (Masuburo), a barrel bath (Taruburo), and a rock bath (Iwaburo)—offering a $360text{-degree}$ panoramic view that is unmatched elsewhere. Visitors can enjoy fresh greenery in spring, a starry sky in summer, and vibrant autumn colors. The cuisine features creative Deep Mountain...

    • Akita
    • Sightseeing
    • Accommodation
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
    Oga Onsen
    Akita

    Oga Onsen

    This hot spring village has been known as the main accommodation base for Oga since the early Showa period (around the $1920text{s}$–$1930text{s}$). It has long been popular among common people as a hot spring cure resort (tōji-ba).Containing salts similar to seawater, it is also called "Netsu no Yu" (Hot Bath) because the body resists cooling down after bathing. It offers high heat retention and is also beneficial for achieving beautiful skin.

    • Akita
    • Sightseeing
    • Accommodation
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
    • Winter
    Akinomiya Onsenkyō Akinomiya Sansō
    Akita

    Akinomiya Onsenkyō Akinomiya Sansō

    This inn at Akinomiya Onsen features colorless and odorless hot spring water that has a refreshing feel on the skin. Due to its transparency, it is also known as "Kagami-yu" (Mirror Bath).Befitting the hometown of the famous poet Ono no Komachi, the exterior has a highland resort feel, while the interior features colors reminiscent of the Heian period. The inn boasts a large public bath where you can enjoy $7text{ different types}$ of baths, and a fusion of Japanese and Western cuisine (Washoku-Yōshoku Settchū Ryōri). Depending on the season, it serves as a smart resort hotel or a cozy, warm...

    • Akita
    • Sightseeing
    • Accommodation
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
    • Winter
    Doroyu Onsen Okuyama Ryokan
    Akita

    Doroyu Onsen Okuyama Ryokan

    Doroyu Onsen is a traditional hot spring that dates back to the feudal domain era (Han-sei period). Its simple and rustic atmosphere, nestled in a small, slightly opened basin deep in the mountains, is overflowing with the feel of a hidden hot spring (hitō).

    • Akita
    • Sightseeing
    • Accommodation
    • Nature
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
    • Winter
    Oku Oyasukyō Ōyu Onsen Abe Ryokan
    Akita

    Oku Oyasukyō Ōyu Onsen Abe Ryokan

    This is a hot spring inn located in the depths of Oyasukyō Onsen, amidst the mountains at the uppermost stream of the Minase River on the western foothills of Mount Kurikoma, where steam rises from the ground.The hot spring is said to have first opened during the Bunka era ($1804text{–}1817$), and it retains its traditional appearance, offering a hot spring experience that harmonizes perfectly with the surrounding natural scenery.

    • Akita
    • Sightseeing
    • Accommodation
    • Nature
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
    • Winter
    Sukawa Onsen Kurikoma Sansō
    Akita

    Sukawa Onsen Kurikoma Sansō

    The autumn leaves viewed from the large observation bathhouse at an altitude of $1,100text{ meters}$ are truly spectacular. Soaking completely in the milky-white, cloudy hot spring water while feeling the cool breeze coming off the mountains on your cheek is exhilarating. You can also enjoy the restaurant, accommodation options, open-air baths (rotenburo), and the large public baths (daiyokujō).

    • Akita
    • Sightseeing
    • Nature
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
    Kisakata
    Akita

    Kisakata

    Kisakata, located in Nikaho City, Akita Prefecture, is a scenic area once praised by Matsuo Bashō in his Oku no Hosomichi (The Narrow Road to the Deep North) as the "Matsushima of the East."It was once a bay dotted with countless islands, but it dried up due to the uplift caused by an earthquake in $1804$. Today, it is a rice paddy area dotted with the remaining traces of the islands, known as the "Ninety-Nine Islands (Kujūkushima)."You can enjoy a panoramic view of this unique landscape and the magnificent Sea of Japan from the observation deck at Roadside Station Kisakata...

    • Akita
    • Sightseeing
    • Nature
    • Spring
    Yokote Kamakura Festival
    Akita

    Yokote Kamakura Festival

    The Kamakura Festival in Yokote City, Akita Prefecture, is a traditional event held during the Little New Year, with a history of about $450text{ years}$. It takes place annually on February $15text{th and }16text{th}$.Inside the snow domes (kamakura) built throughout the city, children enshrine the Water Deity and invite visitors in with the phrase, "Kamakurakko sa haittetanse" (Please come into the Kamakura). Inside, amazake (sweet sake) and mochi (rice cakes) are served, allowing guests to enjoy a fantastic and warm atmosphere illuminated by snow lanterns.Even outside the festival period, visitors can experience a real kamakura year-round at the Yokote Fureai...

    • Akita
    • Sightseeing
    • Activities
    • Festivals & Events
    • Winter
    Tazawako Ski Resort
    Akita

    Tazawako Ski Resort

    The resort features $4text{ snow}$ parks within the slopes. Items such as kickers, banks, and rails are installed, catering to all levels from beginner to advanced skiers and snowboarders.Access is excellent, just a $30text{-minute}$ bus ride from Tazawako Station.Visitors will be overwhelmed by the view of Japan's deepest lake, which can be seen from the vast slopes.

    • Akita
    • Activities
    • Winter
    Kanto Festival
    Akita

    Kanto Festival

    The Akita Kantō Festival is one of the Three Great Festivals of Tohoku, along with the Aomori Nebuta Festival, and is designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, held annually in Akita City from August 3rd to 6th.It is a traditional Neburi-nagashi (sleep-driving away) event where the entire Kantō pole is likened to an ear of rice and the lanterns to straw bags of rice, praying for a bountiful harvest. The greatest attraction is the skillful performance of the bearers (sashite), who deftly balance and manipulate the massive Kantō poles (Ōwaka) weighing approximately $50text{ kg}$ and adorned with...

    • Akita
    • Festivals & Events
    • Summer
    Kakunodate Samurai Residences
    Akita

    Kakunodate Samurai Residences

    Kakunodate Samurai Residence Street, located in Semboku City, Akita Prefecture, is known as the "Little Kyoto of Michinoku" and is designated as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.The street, lined with heavy, black-painted wooden fences, retains samurai residences from the early Edo period. The most famous feature is the approximately $400text{ weeping}$ cherry trees (Shidarezakura) over $300text{ years}$ old that bloom in spring, creating a spectacular contrast between the black walls and the pale pink blossoms during the flowering season.Residences of high-ranking samurai from that era, such as the Ishiguro House and the Aoyagi House, are...

    • Akita
    • Sightseeing
    • Activities
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
    • Winter
    Oga Peninsula
    Akita

    Oga Peninsula

    Oga Peninsula in Akita Prefecture is known for its traditional culture and magnificent coastline.The "Namahage of Oga" culture, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, is the most famous feature, and you can experience its powerful presence at the Namahage Museum and Oga Shinzan Folklore Museum. Nyūdōzaki Cape, the northernmost tip of the peninsula, is a spectacular spot offering views of a black and white lighthouse and the blue sea.From Mount Kanpū, which is entirely covered in grass, you can enjoy a $360text{-degree}$ panorama, and Godzilla Rock at sunset is also popular. With attractions like the Oga Aquarium GAO and hot spring...

    • Akita
    • Sightseeing
    • Activities
    • Nature
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
    • Winter
    Nekobari Rock
    Akita

    Nekobari Rock

    The Nekobari Rock (literally "Root-Spreading Rock") is a massive, strange rock quietly located upstream of the Babame River. It is a mysterious rock, approximately $6text{ meters}$ tall, where the roots of several giant trees cling to its top, making it look like a small forest. It was named Nekobari (meaning "spreading roots" or "separated roots") because the roots of these trees stretch out like waves, connecting the rock to the distant ground. The sight of these roots tenaciously striving to connect with the separated earth conveys the resilience of nature and the strong will of life to survive.

    • Akita
    • Sightseeing
    • Nature
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
    • Winter
    Shūsenko Lake and Hōsenko Lake
    Akita

    Shūsenko Lake and Hōsenko Lake

    It is known for the mysterious scenery of the "Submerged Forest" which appears when the water level drops, particularly from early May to mid-June as the snowmelt progresses. This fantastic view of fresh green trees standing in the lapis lazuli surface of the lake attracts many photographers.On the shores of Hōsenko Lake, there is the symbolic Carillon Tower (Bell of Happiness) and an observation deck, making it an ideal spot for a picnic during the seasons of fresh greenery and autumn leaves.

    • Akita
    • Sightseeing
    • Nature
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
    1 … 233 234 235 … 245