Exploring Yamanashi Prefecture.
#Yamagata.
Surrounded by mountains, the city of Yamagata certainly has a relaxed feel compared to the more traversed cities in Japan. Yet, in spite of this, the city provides visitors with an array of sightseeing possibilities, especially for those hoping for a taste of traditional Japan in a crowd-free setting.
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Highlights: Old Saiseikan Hospital Building, Kajo Park, Yamagata Castle Ruins, Water Town Shop Nanukamachi 5 Stores (pictured), Yamagata Folk Museum Bunshokan, Yudonosan Shrine, Yamagata prefecture Gokoku shrine, Momiji Park.
#Yonezawa.
Home to the world-renowned Yonezawa Beef, the historic castle town of Yonezawa makes for an ideal side trip for those visiting the Yamagata City area.
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Highlights: Yonezawa City Uesugi Museum, Toko Sake Museum, Yonezawa Castle Ruins, Uesugi Shrine, Mausoleum of the Uesugi Family, Sasano Mingeikan, Sasanodera Temple (pictured), Yamagata University Engineering Department.
#Atsumionsen.
Located along the Atsumi River, charming Atsumi Onsen is an ideal place for a quiet escape. On chilly days, visitors can enjoy a relaxing foot bath by the river, a great way to soak up the surrounding atmosphere. It is also worth noting that the area is home to many cherry blossoms, making it a perfect destination for those visiting during cherry blossom season.
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Highlights: Mokkeyu Foot Bath (pictured), Chitto Motche Foot Bath Cafe, Anbeyu Foot Bath, あつみ温泉 飲泉所 (drinking fountain), 大和屋菓子舗 (confectionery), Atsumi Onsen's Rose Park, 古代布しな織り 柴田屋 (souvenir shop).
#Tsuruoka.
Despite receiving only a few tourists, Tsuruoka has much to offer those who make the effort to visit. The city is home to Chidōkan - a historic Shonai Domain School, and Shogin Tact - notable for its unique architectural design. Visitors are also recommended to visit Okaraya, a small shop selling gifts and treats made with the help of locals with disabilities.
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Highlights: Chido Museum, Taihōkan, Catholic Tsuruoka Church, Kyukazama Jyutaku HEISHINDOU, Shogin Tact Tsuruoka, Chidōkan (pictured), Tsuruoka Art Forum.
#Sakata.
Situated on the Sea of Japan coast, the historic port city of Sakata is an ideal place to spend a day or two. One of the city's most noteworthy sights is the Rice Store Houses, located by the Niida River. Visitors are also highly recommended to visit the Homma Museum, a Japanese art museum featuring a beautiful garden surrounding a large pond.
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Highlights: Homma Museum, Shimohie-Jinja Shrine, Sanno Club, Somaro, Hiyoriyama Park, Homma Residence, Sankyo-Soko Rice Storehouses Site (pictured).