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Discover Yamagata: Japan’s mountain oasis


ZAO ROPEWAY


Yamagata might be best known for its snow, but this northern prefecture is a destination for all seasons


With its snow-draped fir trees, steaming hot springs and world-class ski resorts, Yamagata has long been a winter paradise — but that’s all just part of the allure. Located in the lesser-explored Tohoku region, the Yamagata prefecture offers travellers a broad range of experiences to enjoy. Here’s how to get the best out of the northern oasis, at any time of year.


WINTER From December to late April, the Zao Mountain Range offers some of the finest slopes for skiing and snowboarding, with Zao Onsen Ski Resort featuring runs suited to all ages and abilities. Situated on the border between Yamagata and Miyagi Prefecture, the area is famed for its juhyo — a rare phenomenon in which evergreen fir trees collect layers of jutting rime ice, transforming into what appear to be ghostly snow monsters. With more ramen restaurants per


capita than anywhere else in Japan, Yamagata offers an ideal way to refuel after a day on the slopes. Local favourites include rich spicy miso ramen and hiyashi ramen, a chilled variation that offers a refreshing contrast to the winter cold.


Te arrival of sakura (cherry blossom) marks the start of spring across Japan


SPRING As winter loosens its grip, the arrival of sakura (cherry blossom) signals the start of spring across Japan. In Yamagata, the blooms arrive slightly later than in the south, usually peaking in April. The historic grounds of Yamagata Castle in Kajo Park provide a tranquil setting to enjoy the fleeting spectacle, with pale pink blossoms framing moats and stone walls. A boat ride down the Mogami


River is a great way to enjoy the soft spring weather. Boatmen occasionally break into song, making it a relaxing way to admire verdant hillsides, waterfalls and gorges as the landscape reawakens after winter.


SUMMER Summer in Yamagata is the perfect season for hiking, as the snow has finally melted and plant life is beginning to emerge in the mountains. One of the region’s most significant spiritual landscapes is Dewa Sanzan, which symbolise rebirth in Japanese mountain worship. The three peaks — Mount Haguro, Mount Gassan and Mount Yudono — have drawn pilgrims for centuries. While Gassan and Yudono require hiking gear and careful preparation, the 2,446 stone steps leading to Haguro Shrine offer a more accessible ascent through towering cedar forests. Summer is also festival season.


COLD RAMEN


One of the most spectacular events is the Hanagasa Matsuri


in August, when around 10,000 dancers fill the streets of Yamagata, wearing traditional costumes and flower-shaped hats in a vibrant, rhythmic celebration.


AUTUMN One of the best ways to take in Yamagata’s colourful foliage is via the Zao Ropeway, which carries visitors up the slopes of Mount Jizo for sweeping seasonal views. You can also enjoy the autumn


leaves at Yamadera while reflecting on its history. Dramatically clinging to a mountainside, the temple is especially atmospheric at this time of year, when crimson maples frame its ancient halls and stone paths. With cooler air setting in,


Yamagata’s culinary calendar turns towards heartier dishes. The Imoni Festival, held on the banks of the Mamigasaki River in mid-September, celebrates the local stew with a giant hotpot capable of serving 30,000 people — stirred, spectacularly, using cranes and excavators.


PLAN YOUR TRIP Direct flights are available from Heathrow to Haneda Airport (Tokyo). From here, frequent bullet train services run north to several stops in Yamagata, taking between two and three hours. Buses and trains connect most major areas within the prefecture, while visitors keen to explore rural regions may prefer to rent a car using an international driving licence.


For further information Visit yamagatakanko.com/en/


THE MOGAMI RIVER IN SPRING WITH SAKURA YAMAGATA HANAGASA FESTIVAL


GINZAN


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