15 Tourist Spots in Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture! A Town Rich in History with Plenty of Outdoor Activities and Hot Springs

Yonezawa is a city filled with many tourist spots, including gourmet destinations famous for Yonezawa beef and historical sites related to Uesugi Kenshin. It is also popular as a hot spring town, attracting many tourists who enjoy hot spring tours. Yonezawa is known for its many secret hot springs, where you can relax and enjoy the natural surroundings while soaking in the hot springs.
Surrounded by the rich nature of Mount Azuma, you can enjoy mountain climbing and hiking from spring to autumn. In winter, it transforms into a popular ski resort, attracting many visitors. A popular sightseeing plan includes enjoying outdoor activities such as skiing or hiking, followed by a visit to the hot springs.
If you take the Yamagata Shinkansen Tsubasa from Tokyo Station, you will arrive in Yonezawa in about two and a half hours! In this article, we will introduce some of the recommended tourist spots in Yonezawa.

1. Experience the History of Yonezawa at the Most Popular Spot, "Uesugi Shrine"

Uesugi Shrine, dedicated to Uesugi Kenshin, the founder of the Yonezawa clan, is located on the former main keep of the old Yonezawa Castle. This shrine is the most popular historical site related to the Uesugi family.
History enthusiasts and fans of the Sengoku period will definitely want to visit this tourist spot. On April 29th, the anniversary of Uesugi Kenshin's death, a grand festival is held, and the Yonezawa Uesugi Festival takes place until May 3rd, drawing many visitors from across the country. The shrine is open year-round, and admission is free, making it an easily accessible historical spot in Yonezawa.
The bronze statues of Uesugi Kagekatsu and Naoe Kanetsugu, which became even more famous after the 2009 NHK historical drama Tenchijin, are often visited by many people who stop to take photos. Another popular spot is the statue of Takasugi Takanori, famous for the saying "Naseba naru..." ("If you try, it will succeed"), attracting many tourists. Takasugi was a renowned Edo-period ruler known for his ability to reform a struggling domain, and he remains popular today.
Next to the Uesugi Shrine is Keishoden (the Hall of Kagekatsu), where authentic relics related to the Uesugi family are displayed. History buffs should not miss this spot.
In addition, the "Samurai Clan" is a group formed to promote tourism in Yonezawa, performing in samurai armor. If you're lucky, you might come across them, but for those who want to be sure to see them, checking the schedule of the "Yamagata Okutama Samurai Clan" before visiting will make your experience more enjoyable.
The Yonezawa Castle History Garden, located just before the Uesugi Shrine, is a convenient tourist center where you can buy souvenirs from Yonezawa. It’s a perfect stop after visiting the shrine.

2. Enjoy Yonezawa Gourmet at the Registered Tangible Cultural Property "Uesugi Count’s Residence"

The "Uesugi Count’s Residence" is the residence of the 14th generation Uesugi Clan, Count Uesugi Shigenori, and is known as Kakumeikan. This beautifully preserved property is a must-see spot when visiting Yonezawa, and you can also taste local Yonezawa cuisine inside.
The residence features a garden modeled after Hamarikyu Gardens and displays nine registered tangible cultural properties, offering visitors the chance to enjoy Yonezawa’s natural beauty throughout the seasons. The garden is open 24 hours, while the residence is open for tours from 10 AM to 5 PM.
The "Uesugi Count’s Residence" is also a popular spot to enjoy local Yonezawa gourmet, including katemono, a regional dish. Meal sets range from 2,000 yen for "Yukinozen" to 5,000 yen for "Hananozen," giving visitors a chance to taste the flavors of Yonezawa while enjoying the region’s history and atmosphere. You can also savor Yonezawa beef and local sake.
For those interested in gourmet tourism, the tea house that serves Yonezawa’s traditional Japanese sweets is a popular spot. The menu includes matcha with sweets for 750 yen, anmitsu for 600 yen, and condensed milk adzuki soft ice cream for 500 yen. It’s one of the most popular spots for enjoying sweets in a relaxing and elegant atmosphere.
(Information as of January 29, 2017)

3. Yonezawa's Magical Winter Festival: "Uesugi Snow Lantern Festival"

The "Uesugi Snow Lantern Festival" is held every year on the second Saturday and Sunday of February at Matsugamisaki Park in Yonezawa. During the festival, approximately 300 snow lanterns and 1,000 snow caves (bonbori) light up the dark winter night, creating a beautiful and magical atmosphere in Yonezawa.
Additionally, visitors can enjoy a dazzling candle zone near the snow lanterns. A tent village hosts a local product exhibition, where you can taste Yonezawa gourmet that warms you up on cold winter days. The festival is a popular tourist attraction. During the event, shuttle buses run every 20 minutes from Yonezawa City Hall and Yonezawa Station, making the access to the festival very convenient.
It’s a festival that lets you experience the magical beauty unique to winter in Yonezawa. Be sure to visit Yonezawa during the winter season for an unforgettable experience.
(Information as of January 29, 2017)

4. "Uesugi Festival" Recreating the Kawanakajima Battle with 700 Participants

The "Uesugi Festival," held in spring in Yonezawa, attracts many tourists from across the country and has become a seasonal tradition. The festival starts with a grand ceremony and opening parade on April 29, followed by the military ceremony on May 2, and the main event, the re-enactment of the Kawanakajima Battle by the Uesugi army, takes place on May 3.
The opening day's folk dance parade is free to participate in. Joining the festival in Yonezawa is highly recommended. Auditions for the role of Uesugi Kenshin are also held, and anyone, regardless of gender, can apply to be part of the Uesugi army’s armored warriors for a 5,000 yen participation fee. Why not give it a try?
There are also reserved seating areas for the Kawanakajima Battle re-enactment, which include souvenir packages. Tickets for reserved seats are available for 2,000 yen, with 100 to 200 tickets sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Reserved seating with 1,000 seats will be available for sale starting April 1 through the Yonezawa Tourism Association, at the same price of 2,000 yen per seat, including a souvenir drink.
(Information as of January 29, 2017)

5. Eight Famous Hot Springs in Yonezawa: "Yonezawa Hattou"

"Yonezawa Hattou" refers to eight famous and secret hot springs that attract tourists from across the country. You can enjoy Yonezawa's hot spring tourism through plans like a stamp rally where you visit the eight hot springs or stay at inns in these hot spring areas for a longer visit, offering great deals for hot spring lovers.
Ubayu Onsen is a historic hot spring located after a mountain path from JR Touge Station. The open-air bath, where you can enjoy bathing while gazing at the majestic Yonezawa scenery, is also very popular. Namerikawa Onsen is another hot spring along a valley, located beyond the mountain path from JR Touge Station. You can enjoy cloudy hot spring water in an open-air bath or hinoki bath.
Oohira Onsen is located upstream of the Mogami River. You can take a taxi up the mountain path, but the secret hot spring is a 20-minute walk from the drop-off point. It’s one of the must-visit hot springs for those on a secret hot spring tour. Goshiki Onsen is a famous hot spring associated with Naoe Kanetsugu, located about 20 minutes by car from JR Itaya Station along a mountain path. It is said to have been discovered by the legendary figure Enno Ozuno, who is featured in films and dramas involving Shugendo.
Shintakayu Onsen is conveniently located near Tengen-dai Highlands, making it easy to visit after trekking. In winter, it is also a great place to warm up after enjoying skiing at Tengen-dai Ski Resort. It’s a popular hot spring spot where you can bathe while enjoying views of the Shirogane Falls.
Hirogawara Onsen is one of the must-visit hot springs for onsen fans. Located in a primeval beech forest about an hour’s drive from JR Tenoko Station, this is the only place in Japan where you can enjoy bathing in a geyser. Why not extend your trip to experience its healing properties?

◆ One of the Three Great Hot Springs of Ouhou: "Shirabu Onsen"

Shirabu Onsen, also known as Shirabu Takayu Onsen, is one of the three great hot springs of Ouhou and a popular hot spring in Yonezawa. With a long history as a hot spring resort, it is located in the secluded area on the northwest side of Mount Azuma. Shirabu Onsen is nestled in nature, where you might encounter wild animals such as monkeys, raccoons, and even the natural monument Japanese serow if you are lucky.
In winter, many visitors enjoy stopping by Shirabu Onsen after skiing or other winter sports at the nearby Tengen-dai Ski Resort. The footbath is also available for visitors who want to enjoy it even in their clothes.
Shirabu Onsen has several quaint inns, offering various plans such as day-use hot springs combined with accommodations or gourmet hot spring plans featuring Yonezawa’s specialties. It’s not only recommended for a relaxing stay but also a great spot to visit during your Yonezawa sightseeing. Combining skiing and hot springs makes for an ideal winter experience in Yonezawa.

◆ "Onogawa Onsen," Associated with Ono no Komachi, Known for Beautiful Skin

Onogawa Onsen, located in the heart of Yonezawa and linked to the famous poet Ono no Komachi, has a history of over 1,200 years. This famous hot spring, known for its high-temperature source and abundant water, is a popular destination for onsen enthusiasts. It’s a place where you can feel the historical connection, especially since it was also loved by Date Masamune, making it a must-visit when exploring the area’s historical sites.
It’s also known for its scientifically proven skin-beautifying effects, making it a great stop for those on an onsen tour. You can even make radium eggs here, adding a unique Yonezawa food experience to your visit.
The communal bath, "Ami-yu," is famous for the swirling hot spring flowers and its slightly hotter water. Komachi-no-yu, located near Hotaru Park, has an open-air bath and is available for use from 6 AM to 6 PM during spring, summer, and autumn. There are also drinking fountains and footbaths, so you can enjoy the hot springs even in your clothes. In summer, it’s popular for visitors who enjoy seeing fireflies as well.
From late June to early July, the Hotaru Matsuri (Firefly Festival) takes place, and during this period, Komachi-no-yu is open until 9 PM. It’s a great opportunity to combine the festival with a relaxing onsen experience. In winter, the baths are open from 7 AM to 5 PM.
Onogawa Onsen Ski Resort is nearby, making it a perfect stop for skiers looking to relax after a day on the slopes. Additionally, for overnight guests, the "Yume-guri Plan" (1,000 yen) allows access to the baths of 15 inns and two communal baths.
(Information as of January 29, 2017)

6. "Tengen-dai Highlands Ski Resort" with a Longest Ski Run of 6,000m

"Tengen-dai Highlands" offers one of Yonezawa’s most popular ski resorts, where visitors can enjoy a ski run of up to 6,000 meters. The ski resort opens in November for the first ski of the season and remains open for snow sports until early May for spring skiing.
Every third Saturday from December to April is "Ski Kids’ Day," where elementary school-aged children can ride the ropeway and lifts for free, and family members can enjoy a 20% discount on the 1-day ski pass. It’s a great event for families visiting Yonezawa during the winter.
There’s also a parent-child ski package that makes snow sports more affordable for families. A one-day passport for one adult and one child, normally 7,800 yen, is available for just 5,000 yen. This package is available every day from December 10 to April 2, except during the New Year holidays, and is very popular for affordable family ski tourism.
On weekdays, the Ladies' Day offer provides a 1-day ski pass for women at a discount, from the usual 4,500 yen to 3,500 yen. This is a great opportunity for women visiting Yonezawa during weekdays to enjoy the snow-capped mountains at a discount.
Prices for the 1-day ski pass are 4,500 yen for adults, 3,700 yen for students, and 3,300 yen for children. For those who wish to ski for a shorter period, a 5-hour pass is recommended at 4,100 yen for adults.
(Information as of January 29, 2017)

7. "Yonezawa Ski Resort," Enjoy Night Skiing

"Yonezawa Ski Resort" is another popular destination in Yonezawa, with a wide variety of slopes and courses for skiers from beginners to advanced levels. It also offers night skiing, where you can enjoy skiing under the beautiful Yonezawa night sky.
Lift tickets for daytime use are priced at 4,100 yen for adults and are available until 5:00 PM. For night skiing, a night pass is available from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM for 2,400 yen. For those who want to ski for a longer time, the long night pass from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM is a great option.
The Snowboard School Yonezawa is popular not only for beginners but also as a certified JSBA snowboard school that offers well-structured programs for obtaining qualifications.
For tourists, the First Lodge offers free Wi-Fi, making it a convenient spot for resting. There are three rest areas and lodges available for snacks and relaxation. Adjacent to the Yonezawa Ski Resort is the "Pension Village Kirakira Kingdom," with 10 different lodges and pensions, each offering a unique style of accommodation, perfect for enjoying winter tourism in Yonezawa.
(Information as of January 29, 2017)

8. Enjoy the Beautiful Seasonal Scenery with the "Tengen-dai Ropeway" and "Lift"

Starting in June, Tengen-dai, a popular sightseeing spot in Yonezawa, opens its summer mountain season, allowing visitors to enjoy the green season. You can take a 5-minute ride on the ropeway from Yumoto Station to Tengen-dai Highland Station. A sightseeing trip via the ropeway is recommended during pleasant weather, with the autumn foliage season also being a favorite time to visit.
When you disembark from the ropeway, you arrive at an elevation of 1,350 meters. Tengen-dai Highland is the entrance to Mount Azuma, one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains. It is a popular spot for hiking as well as serious mountain climbing.
You can also use the lift during the summer mountain season. The summer lift runs from early June to late October and departs from the Alp Tengen-dai Lift Center, which is accessible by walking from the Tengen-dai Highland Station of the ropeway.
If you take the Shirakaba Lift, you will reach the Nakadate Azuma Observation Point at 1,450 meters in about 6 minutes. From there, you can switch to the Shakunage Lift and reach an elevation of 1,590 meters in 9 minutes. Finally, taking the Tsugamori Lift will take you to the Gomei Peak Observation Point at 1,820 meters in about 15 minutes. While you can enjoy mountain climbing along the way, even those who aren’t confident in their stamina can enjoy a scenic mountain experience by simply using the ropeway and lifts, making it a must-visit spot for sightseeing in Yonezawa.
The Tengen-dai Ropeway operates from early June to early November. The operating hours are from 8:20 AM to 5:00 PM, and the round-trip fare for adults is 1,500 yen. The summer mountain lift one-way ticket for adults is 400 yen. A three-lift round-trip ticket is 2,100 yen.
(Information as of January 29, 2017)

9. Tengen-dai Highland, Famous for Summer Alpine Plants and Autumn Foliage

Tengen-dai Highland is one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains and a must-visit for sightseeing in Yonezawa. The spring snowmelt is beautiful, and the early green season of June, when the ropeway and summer mountain lifts open, offers a stunning view for everyone, even those who are not physically fit. Many visitors come to see a variety of alpine plants, making it a popular spot for photography.
From late September, the autumn foliage begins, attracting many tourists. The best time to see the foliage is around mid-October. To experience the most beautiful colors, visit in the morning when the sunrise enhances the foliage. An early start is perfect for sightseeing.
At the Shirakaba Restaurant located in Tengen-dai Highland, you can enjoy local Yonezawa cuisine like imoni (a Yonezawa specialty stew). There are also plans such as the Asuma Bamboo Shoot Plan or the Tengen-dai Highland Imoni Party Plan, which make the Yonezawa sightseeing experience even more enjoyable. Be sure to check these plans before heading out to get the most out of your trip.
To deal with the mountain’s unpredictable weather and difficult trails, it's best to wear easy-to-remove clothing and comfortable shoes.

10. Visit the Beautiful Waterfalls in Yonezawa and Explore Power Spots

Yonezawa is known for its beautiful waterfalls, which are also popular photography spots. Additionally, Yonezawa’s waterfalls are recommended when exploring power spots in the area.
Namegawa Otaki (Namegawa Great Falls) is one of Japan’s top 100 waterfalls, attracting many visitors especially during the fresh greenery season in spring and the autumn foliage season. Located at the trailhead of the Azuma Mountain Range, it’s also a great healing spot to visit during a mountain climb. You can also walk from Namekawa Onsen, making it an excellent Yonezawa sightseeing route to combine hot springs and waterfalls.
Shirabu Otaki (Shirabu Great Falls) is about a 10-minute walk from Shirabu Onsen. It is not only beautiful during the fresh green and autumn foliage seasons, but also popular as a power spot. If you visit in early summer, you can see the waterfall’s increased water volume due to the snowmelt from Mount Azuma, creating a powerful sight.
Other waterfalls in the Oohira Gorge, such as the Hinofue-no-Taki (Flame Falls), Akataki (Red Falls), and Kurotaki (Black Falls), are located at the source of the Mogami River. The Akataki and Kurotaki can be viewed from the Nishiazuma Sky Valley and are visible from afar in the Futatsu-ryu Gorge.

11. Nishiazuma Trekking with Beginner-Friendly Courses

Mount Nishiazuma in Yonezawa is one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains and a well-known sightseeing spot. For those who want a light trekking experience, a 30-minute course starting from the Tengen-dai Lodge offers a great view of the Hinofue Falls from the waterfall viewing platform, and then return to the lodge.
For those who can walk for about an hour, a recommended course is to walk from the Tengen-dai Lodge to Meido Falls. This waterfall is one of the sources of the Mogami River, and during the course, you can observe alpine plants. Many visitors also bring cameras to capture the beautiful scenery.
Longer model courses take over 4.5 hours. It’s important to check the trekking precautions and submit a climbing plan before setting off. There is also a more accessible 20-minute hiking course for those who prefer a shorter walk. Even for a short distance, be sure to wear comfortable footwear and enjoy Yonezawa’s summer mountain sightseeing safely.

12. Tour the Locations for the Famous Spinning Top in Yonezawa, the Top Producer in Japan

Yonezawa is the number one city in Japan for spinning tops, and became well-known after appearing on Nippon Television's "Tetsuwan Dash" in the DASH Local PR section. On the show, a challenge to spin a 2-meter giant top was attempted. At Onogawa Onsen, various types of spinning tops, such as throw tops and trick tops, are made and sold. These colorful spinning tops also make for wonderful traditional souvenirs from Yonezawa. If you stop by while sightseeing in Yonezawa, you’ll be surprised and delighted by the different types of tops available.
The location featured in the show for the spinning top challenge was the Matsukawa Riverside. If you visit this riverside during the summer, you can enjoy fireworks based on Mount Azuma, a symbol of Yonezawa City, during the Tohoku Fireworks Festival.

13. Popular Event in the "Naseba Naru Autumn Festival": Yonezawa Donburi Festival

The "Naseba Naru Autumn Festival," held for two days at the end of September, features the lighting of Haguro Shrine and concerts, along with a variety of exhibitions and events. Among these, the "Yonezawa Donburi Festival" is a popular event. It is highly recommended for those who want to experience Yonezawa beef.
A limited number of premium donburi made with rare cuts of Yonezawa beef are available for 5,000 yen. This is a rare and exclusive dish that can only be enjoyed at this event. You can also try various preparations of Yonezawa beef, such as Yonezawa Beef Roast Beef and Shigure Don for 1,200 yen, or Yonezawa Beef Sukiyaki Don.
For those who enjoy other Yonezawa gourmet dishes, there are also donburi dishes like Keema Curry Don made with Yonezawa Tengen Pork for 1,080 yen, and Aizu Mini Sauce Katsudon. If you love donburi and want to taste Yonezawa’s local dishes, be sure to visit during this special event.
(Information as of January 29, 2017)

14. Yonezawa Gourmet: More Than Just Yonezawa Beef

Yonezawa is a city known for its rich gourmet offerings, and many visitors come specifically for food tourism. You can enjoy Yonezawa beef in a variety of classic preparations such as sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, steak, and yakiniku at restaurants throughout the city. For a more casual yet indulgent experience, Yonezawa beef can also be enjoyed in donburi style. There are even Yonezawa beef bento boxes available, allowing you to enjoy the delicious beef on your way back to Tokyo after sightseeing.
One of the other popular gourmet items in Yonezawa is carp, raised in the city’s clear streams. Dishes like carp soup sets and carp course meals are highly recommended for food enthusiasts visiting Yonezawa. You can also find carp in sweet vinegar or in vacuum-packed boxes, making it easy to take home.
Yonezawa ramen, made with chicken stock and dried sardines, served with curly thin noodles, is a nationally loved dish. Soba noodles are another local specialty, and the Takanosato Yonezawa Soba Road hosts events celebrating this dish. For those who are on a healthy diet, Yonezawa offers many delicious, nutritious ingredients as well.
Yonezawa is also home to unique local ingredients that can’t easily be found in the capital region, such as snow greens, which are available as pickles and make a great souvenir for pickle lovers. Ukogi, a nutritious vegetable eaten during the spring and early summer, is often served as tempura or simmered dishes in local Japanese restaurants and izakayas.
Kubota eggplant, small in size, is typically enjoyed as quick pickles, and it’s also available as a popular Yonezawa souvenir. Azusayama radish is a thin, spicy radish sold as takuan pickles and can also be found at ryokan buffets.
Yonezawa offers many unique local vegetables, many of which are hard to find outside the region, making them a must-try when visiting.

15. Buy Yonezawa Souvenirs for Yourself or to Share at "Uesugi Castle History Garden"

After enjoying Yonezawa’s attractions, you’ll want to pick up souvenirs before heading home. There are a variety of souvenirs, from sweets to alcohol, available at the "Uesugi Castle History Garden."
One popular sweet is "Yukimaro," marshmallow-wrapped secret beans from Yamagata, which come in a 10-pack for 1,500 yen. Another well-loved item is "Shigure no Matsu," a traditional Yonezawa snack made with blue field soybeans from Yonezawa, perfect for tea time. For those who prefer savory treats, the "Love Rice," a gluten-free bread made from 100% rice in collaboration with Yamagata University and a Yonezawa bakery, is a popular choice, known for its texture and flavor.
For those who prefer not to indulge in sweets, local sake from Yonezawa is a great choice. Carp in sweet vinegar, tenderly prepared, is also a popular Yonezawa souvenir. For meat lovers, Yonezawa beef salami and Yonezawa beef marinated in Tokinami are classic and well-loved souvenirs.
If you’d rather pick something that lasts, the Sagara dolls, especially the cat-and-octopus series, are a big hit. Wooden carvings by Sasano Ittou are also popular, with their charming designs and vivid colors bringing brightness to any space.
Choosing the right souvenir based on the recipient or personal preference makes for a fun part of your journey!
(Information as of January 29, 2017)

◎ Summary

Yonezawa is a city with so many sightseeing spots that one visit is never enough, and it will make you want to come back again and again. As a city with ties to Uesugi Kenshin, the streets are lined with well-preserved historical buildings, and the local pride in Yonezawa is evident in its seasonal festivals.
For those who want to enjoy outdoor activities, there are courses around Mount Azuma that offer different beauty with each season, perfect for both beginners and seasoned adventurers. The fresh greenery in spring and the autumn foliage are particularly popular. In winter, many tourists visit for winter sports, and in spring, the city is bustling with visitors enjoying Yonezawa's beautiful cherry blossoms and the Uesugi Festival.
Yonezawa’s gourmet tourism is also highly popular. Not only can you enjoy Yonezawa beef, but you can also savor seasonal delicacies from Yonezawa. With prices more affordable than in the capital region, combine the region’s fresh produce and hot springs for a personalized Yonezawa experience.

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15 Tourist Spots in Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture! A Town Rich in History with Plenty of Outdoor Activities and Hot Springs