Explore Kamiyama Town in Miyagi Prefecture – 5 Recommended Tourist Spots to Enjoy Abundant Nature

Kamiyama Town is home to the symbol of Kamiyama, Yakurai Mountain, and features the mountainous Senkata, from which the Naruse River and Tagawa flow, creating a lush rural landscape. The lakes are even home to the natural monument "Tetsuo Fish." In this article, we introduce 5 recommended tourist spots in Kamiyama Town, full of charm.

1. Yakurai Garden

Yakurai Garden is located at the foot of Yakurai Mountain, the symbol of Kamiyama Town. Covering an area of approximately 50,000 square meters, it is one of the largest tourist attractions in the Tohoku region. In its 8 themed gardens, visitors can enjoy about 400 species of plants—such as moss phlox and rapeseed blossoms in spring, roses in summer, and cosmos in autumn.

The garden also hosts various events, including the Rose Fair, Cosmos Fair, an area for interacting with rabbits, and pony riding experiences. It can also be used as a venue for outdoor weddings amid beautiful flowers. Enjoying a wedding ceremony in nature is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

The garden also offers a restaurant serving local vegetables from Kamiyama, and shops selling flower seedlings, cosmetics, jams, and other goods—ideal for souvenir shopping. Although the garden is closed during winter, you can enjoy skiing instead, so be sure to visit in your favorite season.

2. Yakurai Yakushi-no-Yu

"Yakurai Yakushi-no-Yu" is a day-use hot spring facility in Kamiyama Town. It is popular among visitors who stop by on the way to Yakurai Mountain or Yakurai Garden. Here, you can fully enjoy a variety of baths including a large public bath, open-air bath, family bath, and sauna. There are also private rooms, a large hall, and a karaoke room, making it a facility you can enjoy all day.

Located in a nature-rich area around Yakurai Mountain, the open-air bath offers views of Yakurai Mountain's scenery, which changes with the seasons. Soaking in the hot springs while admiring Kamiyama's nature is a delight for both body and mind.

The spring water at Yakurai Yakushi-no-Yu is a sodium-calcium chloride spring that relieves travel fatigue with its warming properties. There is also a dining area and a shop, so be sure to check those out as well.

Tourism in Kamimachi mainly centers around the Yakurai Mountain area. Since the attractions are relatively concentrated, it is easy to visit multiple sightseeing spots. While touring Kamimachi, take some time to warm up and relax in the hot springs for a moment of healing.

3. Yakurai Souvenir Center “Yama no Sachi Center”

Yakurai Souvenir Center “Yama no Sachi Center” is a market selling local specialties such as highland radish from Yakurai, tara buds, udon, and warabi (bracken ferns) among other mountain products. Local farmers also sell fresh vegetables and fruits grown in the area. One of the most popular items is gelato. You can try unique flavors like edamame and wasabi gelato.

A wide range of processed products such as dried fish is also available, making it a treasure trove of souvenirs. Fresh vegetables are especially popular; if you visit in the afternoon, they are often sold out, so arriving in the morning is recommended if you want to secure some.

4. Yakurai Water Park

Surrounded by the symbol of Kamiyama, Yakurai Mountain, blue skies, and green fields, "Yakurai Water Park" is a popular attraction. It features a children's pool, a wading pool, water slides, and a flowing pool, making it popular with both children and those who want to enjoy water activities.

There are also hot springs and a jacuzzi, allowing you to relax and recover from exercise on the spot. Since it is adjacent to the Yakurai Souvenir Center and Yakurai Yakushi-no-Yu, you won't have any trouble finding places to eat or shop for souvenirs. The local specialty beer "Yakurai Beer" is also recommended as a souvenir.

5. Arasawa Wetlands

Arasawa Wetlands were formed by a landslide during the glacial period about 40,000 years ago, creating a complex terrain with numerous ponds and wetlands. The vast Arasawa Wetlands are home to over 530 species of plants, about 85 species of birds, and more than 50 species of dragonflies, making it one of the richest habitats for flora and fauna in Miyagi Prefecture.

It is especially famous as a gathering area for water hyacinths. With boardwalks throughout the wetlands, you can take a relaxing stroll surrounded by nature, listening to the chirps of birds, the sounds of insects, and the rustling of trees and leaves in the wind. It is a refreshing walk. At the entrance, the “Arasawa Nature Center” provides exhibits and a workshop where you can learn about Kamiyama’s nature. From the observation deck, you can experience the lush nature up close.

◎ Summary

Even if you aren’t familiar with Kamiyama Town, you might have heard of “Yakurai.” From forest bathing to hot springs and a variety of activities, the area around Yakurai Mountain offers something for everyone. It is a place where families, couples, and friends can all have a great time. Enjoy the crisp air and natural beauty of Kamiyama Town throughout the seasons. Please plan your trip to this nature-rich town and experience its refreshing atmosphere firsthand.

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Explore Kamiyama Town in Miyagi Prefecture – 5 Recommended Tourist Spots to Enjoy Abundant Nature