Yamagata has been selected as one of the "25 Must-Visit Travel Destinations in the World in 2026"!
Recently, the globally renowned travel magazine National Geographic announced its "Best of the World 2026" (October 2025), listing the 25 must-visit travel destinations for 2026. Among these destinations, Yamagata Prefecture was the only location selected from Japan.
Unlike the over-touristed cities of Kyoto and Tokyo, Yamagata is recognized for its hidden charms, where Japan’s original landscapes and spiritual culture thrive in tranquility. The article highlights places like Yamadera, the Three Mountains of Dewa, winter in Zao, Ginzan Onsen, and also introduces Yamagata’s food culture, including local dishes like imo-ni (a potato stew) and its sake brewing traditions.
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/best-of-the-world-2026
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/best-of-the-world-2026/article/yamagata-japan
Global Spotlight on Yamagata: Japan’s Only Destination Selected
Zao Snow Monsters (Juhyo Ice Trees)
The famed juhyo, or “Snow Monsters,” are a natural wonder formed when snow and ice adhere to trees under exceptionally rare climatic conditions found in only a few places worldwide. Some of these awe-inspiring formations reach heights of up to 10 meters. The panoramic snow-covered landscape viewed from the ropeway, combined with the milky-white, high-quality hot springs at the mountain’s base, makes Zao synonymous with the quintessential Japanese winter experience.
Ginzan Onsen
Nestled in a mountain valley, Ginzan Onsen traces its origins to the Nobesawa Silver Mine, which flourished in the early Edo period. Its nostalgic townscape, imbued with Taisho-era romance, offers a rich and atmospheric charm throughout the four seasons. Renowned for its heavy snowfall in winter, the town becomes especially enchanting at dusk, when softly glowing gas lamps illuminate the streets. Visitors are transported into a scene reminiscent of a fairy tale.
Yamadera (Risshaku-ji Temple)
Beloved by the famed poet Matsuo Basho, this ancient temple is one of Tohoku’s most sacred mountains. The approach consists of 1,015 stone steps, said to cleanse worldly desires with every step upward. From the summit—often referred to as a “temple in the sky”—visitors are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. In winter, the snow-draped rock faces and temple halls create a scene of solemn and majestic beauty.
Reservations can be made up to six months in advance.
Reservations are only accepted via the official website.
Room reservations and room availability cannot be made via email.
Please check the official website for the latest room availability and reservations.
HOTEL
Ginzanso is a traditional Ryokan (Japanese Inn) that is located about 5 minutes away from Ginzan onsen. Providing its customers with a relaxing luxury experience, through the hot bath spa and delicious Japanese cuisine, the hotel has been recognized for its excellent service by the Japan National Tourism board.
| Plan (2 person) |
Price / Person |
| Standard room |
19,800 yen~ |
| Deluxe room |
23,100 yen~ |
Note: The prices listed above are approximate. It may change according to the season and it will gets cheaper if there are more than 2 people.
ACCESS
We recommend you to rent a car. However, you can reach the facility by taking Tohoku Shinkansen (bullet train) to Oishida station (JR大石田駅) and then taking a local bus to Ginzan Onsen.
We even offer shuttle bus service 3 times a day to and from Oishida station. If you inform us beforehand, we can make arrangements for you.
Ginzanso Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a parking lot?
There is a free parking lot. Hotel guests do not need to reserve parking
For details, please refer to the URL below.
https://www.ginzanso.jp/access/
Where is the nearest station?
JR Oishida Station is the nearest station.
There is a free shuttle bus (from JR Oishida Station at 11:10, 13:40, 15:45) available at the hotel. Please make a reservation in advance if you would like to use the shuttle service.
There is also a route bus from Oishida Station to Ginzan Onsen. The bus stop for the route bus is right next to Ginzanso.
Can I use a credit card?
The types of credit cards that can be used are VISA, Master, JCB, Diners, American Express, and UnionPay.
Is there an open-air bath?
It is located at Ginzanso.
Can I use the internet?
Free wireless LAN is available throughout the building.
Can you tell me about the availability of rooms?
See the REERVATION page. You will see the latest room availability.
How much is the accommodation fee?
Can I smoke in the room?
All rooms are non-smoking. There is a smoking area in the lobby on the 4th floor.
What time is dinner?
The final start will be at 19:00.
Can I change the food I don't like?
We will omit ingredients that you are allergic to.
If you don't like the ingredients, you can change it to a different one for an additional 1,100 yen. After changes, the contents of the meal will be left to the kitchen. Please contact us at least 3 days before your stay. However, changes to vegetarian or halal menus are not possible.
