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Yamagata Prefecture (山形)
Our Recommendation
★★★★★ 4.2/5
Review: Definitely worth a visit if you have time

Yamagata Prefecture, nestled between the Sea of Japan and majestic mountains, boasts a captivating natural landscape. Along its coastline, you’ll find the port cities of Tsuruoka and Sakata, while the inland areas are highlighted by the renowned Zao Onsen. This area is celebrated for its hot springs, ski slopes, and picturesque snow-laden evergreen forests. Yamadera, a mountain temple that inspired a famous haiku poem, offers a serene and spiritual experience. Additionally, the enchanting Ginzan Onsen, situated on the grounds of a former silver mine, beckons visitors with its delightful hot spring retreat and charming atmosphere.

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Yamagata Prefecture (山形)

Our Recommendation
★★★★★ 4.2/5
Definitely worth a visit if you have time

Yamagata Prefecture, nestled between the Sea of Japan and majestic mountains, boasts a captivating natural landscape. Along its coastline, you’ll find the port cities of Tsuruoka and Sakata, while the inland areas are highlighted by the renowned Zao Onsen. This area is celebrated for its hot springs, ski slopes, and picturesque snow-laden evergreen forests. Yamadera, a mountain temple that inspired a famous haiku poem, offers a serene and spiritual experience. Additionally, the enchanting Ginzan Onsen, situated on the grounds of a former silver mine, beckons visitors with its delightful hot spring retreat and charming atmosphere.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Places to visit in Yamagata

Ginzan Onsen

Our Recommendation
★★★★★ 4/5
One of the most popular Onsen spots well worth the visit but make sure to book accomodaition well in advance
Best time to visit: Winter
Duration: 1-2 Days
Price: N/A
Activities: Sightseeing, Onsen

Ginzan Onsen is a traditional hot spring resort located in the Yamagata Prefecture of Japan. It is known for its charming atmosphere, historic wooden buildings, and scenic surroundings, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Ginzan Onsen is a small, quaint resort town surrounded by mountains and forests, . …

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Hoju-san Risshakuji

Our Recommendation
★★★★★ 3.5/5
A historic temple located in a mountainous region in Yamagata.
Best time to visit: All year round
Duration: 1-3 hours
Price: Adults:300 Yen, Child: 200 Yen
Activities: Sightseeing

Risshaku-ji or the Yamadera Temple, is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the region and attracts many visitors both domestically and internationally. The temple was founded in 860 AD and has a rich history and cultural significance that has made it an important part of Japanese heritage.  …

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Shirayama-jima

Our Recommendation
★★★★★ 3/5
Cute island which might be worth the visit if you are in the area
Best time to visit: All year round
Duration: 30 minutes - 2 hours
Price: Free
Activities: Sightseeing

Shirayama-jima, or White Mountain Island, is a beautiful natural attraction located in the city of Higashine in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan. This small, serene island is known for its stunning landscapes and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.,….

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Tsuruoka City Kamo Aquarium

Our Recommendation
★★★★★ 3/5
Consider a visit if you are in the city of Tsuruoka and have time on your hands
Best time to visit: All year round
Duration: 1.5 - 3 hours
Price: Adults 1,000 Yen,, Child: Free - 500 Yen
Activities: Sightseeing,

The Tsuruoka City Kamo Aquarium in Yamagata Prefecture is a fascinating destination for visitors interested in marine life and conservation efforts. Located in the city of Tsuruoka, the aquarium is known for its displays of local marine species, as well as its efforts to educate visitors on the importance of preserving these species and their habitats.

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Potential Itineraries

A Cultural Day Trip to Kamakura

Our Recommendation
★★★★★ 4.5/5
A great travel option if you want to stay close to Tokyo
Number of Days: 1 day
Sub-destination: Kamakura
Best time to visit: All year
Activities:

While prices are generally cheap, this is perhaps not the case with transport costs. If you are seeking to maximize your time with limited money, Kamakura, which served as the capital centuries ago, may be a good idea. 

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1~2 Day trip to Hakone

Our Recommendation
★★★★★ 4.5/5
Experience the Japanese Onsen culture
Number of Days: 1-2 days
Sub-destination: Hakone
Best time to visit: All year
Activities: Onsen, Outdoors

While prices are generally cheap, this is perhaps not the case with transport costs. If you are seeking to maximize your time with limited money, Kamakura, which served as the capital centuries ago, may be a good idea. 

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1~2 Day trip to Nikko

Our Recommendation
★★★★★ 4.5/5
Experience Mother Nature while learning about Japanese History
Number of Days: 1-2 days
Sub-destination: Nikko
Best time to visit: All year
Activities: Onsen, Outdoors

While prices are generally cheap, this is perhaps not the case with transport costs. If you are seeking to maximize your time with limited money, Kamakura, which served as the capital centuries ago, may be a good idea. 

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