[Yamagata ] A place that Matsuo Basho loved! Five attractive installation spots in the Yamagata Prefecture area
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2024-08-02
Yamagata Prefecture is located on the Sea of Japan side of the Tohoku region. The entire prefecture is mountainous, and even today it can be said to be a region rich in nature, with many of Japan's original landscapes remaining. "It is said that Matsuo Basho, the famous haiku poet known for his work Oku no Hosomichi (The Narrow Road to the Interior) "spent much of his time in Yamagata Prefecture, and the fact that the prefecture produces 70% of the nation's cherries may also be a characteristic of Yamagata Prefecture. Did you know that there are many Instagram-worthy spots in Yamagata Prefecture? In this article, we will introduce five popular spots in Yamagata Prefecture that will make you want to press the shutter button again and again.
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Ginzan Onsen
In Yamagata Prefecture, there is a hot spring resort with a retro atmosphere that makes you feel as if you have wandered into the world of the movie "Spirited Away ". That is Ginzan Onsen. This area once prospered as the Nobezawa Silver Mine in the Edo period (1603-1868), but with the decline of silver mining, it was transformed into a hot spring resort. Just strolling around the area looking at the rows of hot spring inns is an exciting experience, and it is a recommended ryokan town that is sure to become an Instagram-worthy destination.
Although it is an unexplored spot located somewhat deep in the mountains off the main road, it became nationally known as the filming location for the national drama "Oshin (NHK) ", which was broadcast in 1983. The Taisho Romantic landscape had a great impact even at that time and must have attracted many people.
Ginzan Onsen is characterized by its unique atmosphere of Taisho Era architecture combined with Western culture. The scenery, which makes you feel as if you have stepped back in time, is ideal for immersing yourself in a sense of the extraordinary. At dusk, gas lamps beautifully illuminate both banks of the Ginzan River. Furthermore, the snowy scenery seen in winter is also exceptional. It is no exaggeration to say that this is a spot filled with the fascinating beauty of Japan.
The impressive hot spring resort area is a great spot for strolling and has a lot to offer. Cafes, souvenir stores, and footbaths using the hot spring water are all within walking distance, making it perfect for sightseeing. In addition, there is a wide variety of specialties, such as curry buns, that are perfect for eating and walking around.Hanasakiyama Observatory
Hanasaki-yama, located just behind the Hayama Onsen spa resort in the Hayama district of Kaminoyama City, is home to the Hanasaki-yama Observatory ", which is a classic installation spot for couples. " With a great view from the observatory and a bell that encourages romantic fulfillment, it is a highly popular and attractive place for a potential date night out.
The observatory is located halfway up Mt. The view includes the urban area of Kaminoyama, Yamagata City, and the Zao mountain range stretching to the left and right in the distance. It is the perfect place to spend a refreshing moment with your loved one while enjoying the spectacular view.
It is no exaggeration to say that many visitors come to "to ring the bell of happiness ". It is said that if a couple rings the bell together, their love will be fulfilled, and the sound of the bell together will remain in their memories forever.
The neighborhood is known as a filming location for the movie "Departures ". In particular, the building known as "Kamiyama Concerto Kan "was used as the home of the main character in the movie. It will be a good memory of your trip if you visit the area while remembering each scene of the movie.
Wu Hat Shan Park
Nanyo City is home to Akayu Hot Springs, one of the most popular hot springs in Yamagata Prefecture, and Eboshiyama Park in the same area is well known for its cherry blossoms. This is also a popular tourist destination filled with seasonal attractions, not only in spring, and a visit is sure to be Instagram-worthy.
Eboshiyama Park is located just up the mountain from the hot spring resort of Akayu. The distance between the two parks is not that great, and you can walk to the park with your yukata on. While enjoying the hot spring baths and gourmet food in the hot spring resort area, you can also easily enjoy the freshness and variety of nature.
Eboshiyama Park is famous as one of the most sacred places for cherry blossom viewing, ranking either first or second in Yamagata Prefecture. The most notable points are the overwhelming volume and rarity of the cherry blossoms. The number of varieties of cherry trees in bloom is as many as 25, and the total number of cherry trees in the entire park is about 1,000. "It is called "Eboshiyama Senbonzakura (Thousand Cherry Trees) "," and it is no wonder that the park is crowded with cherry blossom-viewing visitors every year between mid-April and early May. It would not be an exaggeration to say that a visit to Akayu Onsen in spring would be incomplete without a visit to Eboshiyama Park.
The charm of Eboshiyama Park is not limited to cherry blossoms in the spring season. In early summer, the fresh green foliage is vibrant to the eyes, and when visiting in autumn, the red-colored leaves convey the beauty of the changing seasons. The combination of the abundant nature and the hot spring resort overlooking the park makes for an impressive landscape that will grace the pages of your memorable trip.
White Mountain Island
Speaking of the Sea of Japan side of the Tohoku region, you may have an image of rough waves and inhospitable people. There is an uninhabited island on the Yura Coast of Tsuruoka City that overturns this image of ruggedness. Its name is Hakusanjima, and it is known as the symbol of the coast.
Hakusan Island is commonly referred to as "the Enoshima of Tohoku ", and if you know the real one in Kanagawa Prefecture, it is easy to see why. If you look toward the ocean from the shore, you will recognize a small island with a beautiful triangular silhouette floating about 100 meters offshore. And then there is the distinctive bridge that spans the island. These are just the things that remind us of the peaceful atmosphere of Enoshima.
Visitors can enjoy strolling across a 170-meter bridge, just like the real Enoshima. The pathways are well-maintained, allowing visitors to freely walk around the compact island, and the 263 steps lead up to the Hakusan Shrine at the top, where they can enjoy the expansive view of the Sea of Japan.
One of the better ways to enjoy Hakusan Island is to view the scenery from the outside of the island. Yura Beach in particular, "selected as one of Japan's 100 best beaches ", is known for its beautiful sunsets. What is even better is the view of the island at night. Why not take a picture of beautiful Hakusan Island floating in the dark night using the rapidly evolving dark-camera capabilities of smartphone cameras in recent years?
Tarumi Site
"Yamadera ", commonly known as "Hoshuzan Risshakuji Temple ", is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Yamagata Prefecture. The temple is known as a very venerable temple, opened by an imperial decree of Emperor Seiwa, who also appears on the front page of Japanese history. The Kaisandō Hall built on top of the cliff is a beautiful building that symbolizes Risshakuji Temple, but what we will introduce here is the Tarumizu Ruins located further in the temple. Located about 15 minutes on foot from the entrance of the mountain path, it is a natural formation with outstanding impact.
As you continue on the nature-rich mountain path further from Risshakuji Temple, the surroundings suddenly change. Looking around, you find yourself in a fantastic place with huge rocks with many holes in them, reminiscent of a beehive. You must be at a loss for words to express your excitement at these natural formations, which you are not accustomed to seeing in your daily life. The combination of the simple torii gate and the white rock surface seems to be linked to the traditional Japanese temperament of being frugal and sturdy. No wonder it was used as a place for ascetic practices.
The Tarumi site is also known as "Mine-no-ura "and is also called "Urayamadera "because it is located further back from the Yamadera. It has a history of over 1000 years and until the Taisho Era, Yamabushi actually practiced their training here. Visitors are sure to be captivated by the impressive scenery and atmosphere that attracts people to this power spot.
Tarumi Ruins is an outdoor installation spot, so you will need to be prepared for trekking when you visit. It takes approximately one and a half hours to make a loop around Mine-no-Ura, and approximately one hour just to go up to the Tarumi Ruins and turn around. Therefore, it is essential to wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing that will protect your skin on the mountain path. This is a light climb, so do not let your guard down.
summary
These are five of the most attractive Instagram-worthy spots in the Yamagata Prefecture area. We hope that you were able to catch a glimpse of the rich individuality of these places, from sightseeing spots that remind you of people's longtime activities to places where you can enjoy the rich artistic forms created by nature. Yamagata Prefecture is also conveniently accessible from the Tokyo metropolitan area by Shinkansen bullet trains and buses. Why not consider Yamagata Prefecture as one of your next travel destinations?
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