Yamagata is a prefecture located in the Tohoku region of northern Japan. It is known for its breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains, stunning cherry blossoms, and traditional cultural attractions. From the hot springs in Zao Onsen to the historical sites like Yamadera Temple, Yamagata offers a wide variety of activities and attractions for travelers. The region is particularly renowned for its delicious food, including the famous Zunda Maki, a sweet sticky rice cake filled with sweet edamame paste. Yamagata is a great place to visit for those looking for a unique cultural experience, delicious food, and stunning natural beauty.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
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| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Tendo: Located in the center of Yamagata Prefecture, Tendo is a picturesque town known for its hot springs and traditional culture. It is home to several historic sites including the Tendo Onsen, the oldest hot spring in Japan, and the Tendo Shinto Shrine.
2. Yonezawa: Located in the north of Yamagata Prefecture, Yonezawa is a charming city surrounded by mountains and rivers. It is known for its traditional cuisines, hot springs, and festivals. It is also home to Uesugi Shrine, a nationally important cultural property.
3. Zao: Located at the foot of Mt. Zao, Zao is a popular ski resort town. It is known for its hot springs, ski resorts, and beautiful scenery with a backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
4. Higashine: Located in the southeast of Yamagata Prefecture, Higashine is a small city surrounded by nature. It is known for its clear streams, hot springs, and historic sites such as the ruins of a medieval castle and the Higashine Castle Museum.
5. Sagae: Sagae is a small rural town located in the west of Yamagata Prefecture. It is known for its traditional festivals, hot springs, sake breweries, and stunning scenery. It is also home to many historic sites such as the ruins of a samurai castle and the ruins of a former government office.
1. Yamadera (山寺): Yamadera is an ancient temple complex built in the year 860 and located on the slopes of Mount Ou. It's a popular tourist spot due to its spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the quaint village below.
2. Gassho-style Village of Shirakawa-go: Shirakawa-go is an UNESCO world heritage site, famous for its traditional gassho-style houses, which are built with steep thatched roofs to protect against heavy snowfall. It's a great place to learn about local culture and history.
3. Zao Primeval Forest: Zao Primeval Forest is a protected national park, known for its untouched ancient forests that are home to some of the largest and oldest trees in Japan. It's a great place for nature lovers to explore.
4. Zao Onsen: Zao Onsen is one of the most popular hot spring resorts in Japan, known for its unique sulphuric springs and breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
5. Tendo Onsen: Tendo Onsen is a traditional hot spring town located in the south of Yamagata prefecture. It's known for its 'magnet' hot spring waters, which are said to have medicinal properties.
1. Zunda Mochi: Zunda mochi is a traditional snack made from sweetened edamame paste, which is then formed into a ball and covered with a layer of roasted mochi.
2. Gyutan: Gyutan is a popular dish in Yamagata, made from grilled beef tongue. It is usually served with soy sauce or a special sauce called tare.
3. Sansai: Sansai is a dish made with wild mountain vegetables. It is usually served with a soy sauce-based dipping sauce.
4. Soba Noodles: Soba is a type of thin, buckwheat noodle, and is often served cold with a dipping sauce.
5. Yamagata Apples: Yamagata is known for its delicious apples, which are among the best in Japan. They are usually eaten as a snack or dessert.