A weekend trip to immerse yourself in Yamagata’s culture and cuisine | A recommended itinerary chosen by Yamagata residents: Akayu Onsen
This weekend itinerary offers a relaxing and cultural experience, staying at Yamagataza Takinami in Akayu Onsen, Yamagata. On Day 1, pay a quiet visit to Kumano Taisha Shrine, a place of marriage, and relax with a lunch and sweets made with local ingredients at ichocafe. In the afternoon, stroll through the hot spring town and enjoy the famous Akayu ramen at Ryu Shanghai Honten, before heading to Yamagataza Takinami, a 100-year-old traditional house relocated for lodging. Soak in the hot spring waters carefully tended by the bathkeeper, and soothe yourself with kaiseki cuisine featuring seasonal ingredients from Shonai and Okitama, as well as heartfelt hospitality. On Day 2, enjoy a morning bath in the large open-air bath at Zao Onsen, then shop for souvenirs to take to work at Gutto Yamagata. To conclude your trip, climb the stone steps of Yamadera (Risshakuji) and experience the spectacular view of the Yamagata Basin from the Godaido Hall. “Dewa’s carefully selected Yamagata weekend model itinerary” combines history, hot springs, gourmet food and nature. Finally, return to Akayu Station and gaze out the gentle Yamagata scenery from the Shinkansen window with the afterglow of your trip in your heart.