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A relaxing drive along Yamagata’s Mogami River following in the footsteps of the great poet Matsuo Basho

1days

Only 40 minutes by car from Yamagata Station is the prefecture’s most popular scenic spot. From a famous “yamadera,” or mountain temple, you can look down onto Mogami River and Japan’s largest set of rapids. This relaxing drive plan takes you through some stunning nature while following in the footsteps of Japan’s greatest haiku poet, Matsuo Basho (1644–1694). And, of course, there’s lots of great food along the way.
Take the Shiji Kairo pilgrimage course to witness the beauty of Tohoku’s sacred sites

1days

Shiji Kairo is a pilgrimage course that weaves along four temples in the Tohoku region. It is such a famous and beautiful route that it’s been immortalised in a number of Japanese literary works, such as “Oku no Hosomichi (The Narrow Road to the Deep North)” by Matsuo Basho. Here is a plan to visit Risshaku-ji Temple in Yamagata Prefecture, Zuigan-ji Temple in Matsushima and Chuson-ji Temple and Motsu-ji Temple in Hiraizumi. Experience the pilgrimage as the great haiku poet did.
Yamagata Ginzan Onsen trip that makes you want to dress up

1days

With a hint of Taisho era romance in the air, let's enjoy the Yamagata hot spring area, including Ginzan Onsen. This nostalgic onsen town setting will surely encourage you to adapt to the fashion sense of years past as you eat and walk around the area. Of course, the onsens are what attract the crowds, and if you only take one thing from this itinerary, we say you must take a dip before leaving. Don't forget to spend a comfortable time resting at any one of the peaceful accommodations available.

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What is Yamagata?

Although often overlooked, Yamagata prefecture by no means lacks appeal: the Yamadera temple trail through the mountains, deliciously tender Yonezawa wagyu, and over 100 steaming hot springs, most notably Zao Onsen, await visitors. When winter comes, the snowcapped peaks become dotted with skiers by day and onsen-goers by night, while summer brings the celebration of juicy Yamagata cherries.

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There’s no better way to be introduced to the beautiful Yamagata countryside than by arriving by train. The Yamagata Shinkansen, which takes you from Tokyo up to Yamagata Station in two hours and 40 minutes, rewards passengers with endless picturesque views as you speed through the Yamagata mountains, all covered with a mystical blanket of snow in winter.