Yamagata City has long been a seat of power of the Yamagata Domain in the north, and with that power has come a turbulent history. During the warring period of Japan, the Mogami clan reigned as feudal lords for 275 years from Yamagata Castle, staving off attempts at consolidation from the south. Under Mogami rule, at one point during the Edo period, Yamagata became the fifth largest domain in Japan, its rulers reaping the benefits of a flourishing agricultural industry, with staples such as rice and safflower in high demand across the country.

Today, portions of Yamagata Castle have been beautifully renovated, while much of the castle site continues to be archeologically investigated. Just a short walk from Yamagata station, the castle grounds have been converted into a large, cherry tree-lined park, Kajo Koen, which is also home to several illuminating history and art museums.

Yamagata City has many more historical and cultural intrigues, from the Meiji Era Renaissance-style Bunshokan, Yamagata’s original prefectural headquarters, to the ancient pottery and artisan crafts village of Hirashimizu. What’s more, the city makes for an ideal hub from which you can explore innumerable enchanting towns, villages, and natural getaways within less than an hour’s drive away including Yamadera Temple.

While quaint in comparison to any of Japan’s megacities, Yamagata may have the biggest concentration of bars, restaurants, and izakaya this side of Sendai. And quite conveniently many can be found in the nightlife district just in front of the station. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to try some of the region’s tastiest cuisines, from the humble but filling local stew, imoni, to world-famous Yamagata beef. The area is also famous for its sake with some of the best brewed right in town.