Highlights of Yamagata City
This 4-day tour is designed as an easy addition to any Japan itinerary for travelers seeking to venture beyond the typical tourist route and discover a more authentic side of Japan. Experience the spiritual beauty of Yamadera Temple, relax in the famous milky-white hot springs of Mt. Zao, and explore the charming streets and local culture of Yamagata City.
The tour combines cultural experiences, local cuisine, natural scenery, and warm hospitality into a seamless travel package.
Tour at a glance
Inclusions:
- All lodging and accommodation fees
- Bullet train tickets to Yamagata
- Breakfast on Days 2 through 4
- Dinner on Days 1-3
- On-trip remote support via WhatsApp or other instant messaging service
- English-speaking interpreter-guide
- Bar-hopping Tour
- Onsen Ryokan Stay
- Guided Hike of Yamadera
Exclusions:
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Admission fees to attractions during self-guided time
- Food and drink in addition to the prix fixe meals included as part of the package
- Optional extensions or customizations to trip
- Other items not explicitly listed as included
We can also provide the following options for an additional fee:
- Add-ons to the tour
- Interpretation in languages other than English
Minimum number of participants
2 (Solo travelers may book, please inquire)
Cost
From ¥216,700 (per person, based an estimated group of 2)
Tour Length
4 days, 3 nights
Tour availability
Year-round
Tour Start/End Location
Yamagata Station
Booking Deadline and Important notes
Dietary Restrictions:
Day 1: Arrival in Yamagata City
Day 1 Tour Highlights
Travel from Tokyo Station to Yamagata Station aboard the Yamagata Shinkansen.
Upon arrival, check in to your hotel conveniently located near Yamagata Station, where you will stay for the next two nights.
The remainder of the afternoon is free for you to explore Yamagata City at your own pace. Guests will receive a curated guide featuring recommended attractions, shops, cafés, and local points of interest.
Suggested activities include a walk through the historic grounds of Kajo Park, the former site of Yamagata Castle, or a leisurely stroll through the traditional shopping streets of the Nanukamachi District.
In the evening, enjoy a guided bar-hopping experience led by a local Yamagata guide. Visit three carefully selected establishments, each featuring regional food and drinks, for a warm introduction to Yamagata’s vibrant local dining scene.
Day 2: Yamadera Temple and Yamagata Wagyu
Day 2 Tour Highlights
After breakfast, travel by train from Yamagata Station to Yamadera Station to begin a guided visit to the renowned Yamadera Temple.
Accompanied by a local guide from the Yamaderans Guide Association, discover the rich history, culture, and spiritual significance of this sacred mountain temple. As you ascend the stone stairway, your guide will introduce the many historic halls, monuments, and viewpoints that have made Yamadera one of Japan’s most treasured religious sites.
Upon reaching the summit, take in breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and countryside before descending back into the temple town.
Enjoy lunch at one of the area’s local restaurants before returning to Yamagata City. The afternoon is yours to relax at your hotel or explore the city further.
In the evening, savor a special dinner featuring Yamagata Wagyu, one of Japan’s most highly regarded wagyu beef brands. Rarely available outside the region, this premium beef is best experienced in its place of origin, prepared by local specialists who showcase its exceptional flavor and quality.
Day 3: Mt. Zao and Hot Spring Retreat
Day 3 Tour Highlights
After checking out of your hotel, travel by bus from Yamagata Station to the famous mountain resort town of Zao Onsen.
Upon arrival, leave your luggage at a traditional ryokan and head to the Zao Ropeway for a scenic journey into the mountains.
Spend the day enjoying the fresh alpine air and spectacular natural scenery of Mt. Zao. Guests may choose to hike to the beautiful Okama Crater Lake (season and weather permitting) or relax at the observation areas and cafés located along the ropeway route.
Lunch reservations can be arranged at local restaurants, where you can sample regional specialties such as Genghis Khan barbecue (grilled lamb), igamochi, and other local favorites.
Later in the afternoon, check in to your ryokan and unwind in Zao’s famous natural hot springs. Change into your traditional yukata robe and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming hot spring town.
The day concludes with an elegant multi-course Japanese dinner at your ryokan, featuring seasonal ingredients and local specialties from across Yamagata Prefecture.
Day 4: Departure
Day 4 Tour Highlights
After breakfast and check-out, take the bus back to Yamagata Station.
From there, you are free to continue your journey through Japan or return to your next destination with unforgettable memories of Yamagata’s culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.
Reservations
You can send a booking inquiry below. After we receive your inquiry, we will confirm if we can accommodate your group and tour dates and contact you from there.
Cancelation Policy
Our cancelation policy for this tour is below.
From booking
20% of total price
2 weeks before date of tour
30% of total price
1 week before date of tour
50% of total price
Less than 1 week before date of tour
100% of total price
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