Derek Yamashita - Creative Director

Hirashimizu Sake and Ceramics

In the Hirashimizu artisan village area, learn how to make pottery and the finer points of sake tasting from local masters.

The small artisan village of Hirashimizu in Yamagata is a fantastic destination for those interested in traditional Japanese craft and sake.

Enjoy sake brewed in the Shonai region of Yamagata in a special tasting flight session at a sake bar right in front of Tsuruoka Station.

Watch fugu pufferfish be prepared from start to finish and enjoy one of Japan’s most daring culinary delights with a master chef.

Learn how to prepare nigiri and rolled sushi under the guidance of a master chef at Kamo aquarium in Tsuruoka, Yamagata.

Yamagata Wagyu beef is one of the top 5 wagyu in all of Japan with deep flavors and soft and dreamy texture.

Yamagata is the only sake region to possess GI (Geographic Indication) certification. Read on to learn about its characteristics and history!

The sulfuric, healing waters Zao Onsen were discovered over 900 years ago. Bathing options range from rustic open-air baths to luxury ryokan.

Ginzan Onsen is a picture perfect hot spring town nestled in the mountains in the deep countryside of Yamagata Prefecture.

The Yamagata Bunshokan, an elegant historical building once home to the prefectural offices, is open to the public and can be toured freely.