
Kaminoyama Onsen Hot Spring City
At the base of Mount Zao just south of Yamagata City, lies Kaminoyama Onsen, a hot springs town with many relaxing and luxurious hot spring inns.
As capital of the prefecture and home to Yamagata’s largest metropolitan population, Yamagata City has no shortage of activities, cuisine, nightlife, and lodging accommodations, as well as a variety of sightseeing and historic points of interest to keep visitors busy.
This quaint city sharing the same name as the region has hidden surprises with its traditional soba, spectacular rose garden and the opportunity to have a samurai experience at the birthplace of Iaido.
The Murayama region is a bustling area compared to the rest of the prefecture with many things to do and see. Here are some of our hand-picked recommendations for this area.

At the base of Mount Zao just south of Yamagata City, lies Kaminoyama Onsen, a hot springs town with many relaxing and luxurious hot spring inns.

At the Yamagata Nihonichi Bishuken Fair (lit. “Yamagata: Japan’s Most Delicious Alcohol Fair”), enjoy a wide variety Yamagata-made sakes and wines.

Yamadera is home to Risshakuji, a stunning temple complex built into a the rock face of a mountain, as well as hidden spiritual spots.

Snow Monsters are synonomous with winter on Mount Zao—read on to find out how to access them, the best times to visit, and more!

Nanukamachi, known as Nanokamachi to locals, is one of the main downtown hubs of Yamagata city featuring many cafes and a variety of stores.

In this special collaboration with Yamagata soccer team Montedio Yamagata, we have launched a backyard tour where you can get special access to meet this famous team and see one of their soccer matches at their stadium in Tendo City here in Yamagata.