© istock/SeanPavonePhoto
© istock/SeanPavonePhoto

Yamagata


Yamagata Prefecture is located in the northeastern part of the Tohoku Region on the island of Honshu. Its capital city is Yamagata....

Encircled by the Sea of Japan to the west and mountain chains to the east, Yamagata is a prefecture of lavish nature. Often considered as a concealed area of Japan, this region is pretty much off the tourist radar. Home to scenic vistas, world-class ski slopes, some of the best hot springs and ancient temples, Yamagata might take you by surprise. A holy mountain of Yamadera with a temple called Risshakuji, built on a cliff some 1000 years ago, offers breathtaking views and magnificent nature walks. For another spiritual quest, visit Dewa Sanzan, a complex of three holy mountains that form an authentic pilgrimage site. At the foothills of Mt. Haguro, one of the three mountains, you will find tranquility in Gojudo, a five-storey pagoda from 939. If you are into winter sports, in this prefecture you will find Mt. Zao with some of the most challenging ski slopes in Japan. Famous for its Okama crater lake and so-called “snow monsters”, spectacular snow-covered trees, this resort is home to some great hot springs as well.