Yamagata's Hidden Gems

HISTORY

Yamagata Prefecture, part of Japan's Tōhoku region, has a history from ancient Jomon and Yayoi periods, through samurai rule in the Sengoku and Edo periods, to modernization post-Meiji Restoration. Known for the Mogami clan, Yamagata Castle, Yamadera Temple, and scenic Zao Mountains, it blends rich cultural heritage with natural beauty.























CULTURE

Yamagata's culture includes the Hanagasa and Snow Lantern festivals, imoni stew, cherries, and Yonezawa beef. Traditional crafts like safflower dyeing, Zao Onsen hot springs, and pilgrimages to Dewa Sanzan are notable. The region is also famous for Zao Mountain's ski resorts and "snow monsters" phenomenon.