Full of Charm! 5 Must-See Tourist Spots in Shirataka Town, Yamagata Prefecture

Shirataka Town is located in the Okitama region in southern Yamagata Prefecture. The Mogami River, a first-class river, runs through the town, which is surrounded by mountains in a basin area—resulting in heavy snowfall during winter. Shirataka is also famous for its cherry blossoms, attracting many visitors during the spring cherry blossom festival.

Additionally, Shirataka is Japan’s top producer of safflower, and visitors can enjoy the annual Safflower Festival, which features experiences such as safflower picking and dyeing. Many tourists even come from outside the prefecture to take part in these rare experiences. From season to season, Shirataka offers attractions all year round. Here are five of its most charming spots.

1. Mogami River Railway Bridge (Arato Railway Bridge)

The Mogami River Railway Bridge, also known as the Arato Railway Bridge, is used by the Yamagata Railway Flower Nagai Line. Built in 1887, it is the oldest active railway bridge in Japan—a true miracle that it still exists today. It is a very popular photo spot for visitors to Shirataka.

Beneath the bridge flows the majestic Mogami River, and in the background rises the Asahi Mountain Range. With a train running through such a beautiful landscape, the view from the lookout point is quintessentially Japanese. Visit when a train is passing for a nostalgic and memorable moment.

A piece of living history that's over a century old—come see this remarkable bridge for yourself!

2. Ton-ton Tonbi Paragliding School

Ton-ton Tonbi Paragliding School is one of Japan's rare permanent paragliding bases, located right in Shirataka. The school offers tandem flights and courses for first-timers, which means anyone can join, even on a whim while sightseeing.

There are both introductory and licensing courses, and the tandem flight with an instructor allows even beginners to enjoy a real flight.

Soaring through the skies with panoramic views of Mt. Shirataka has captivated many who try it once.

This thrilling air adventure is a new way to experience Shirataka—why not spread your wings and enjoy the view from above?

3. Furusato Forest Park

Furusato Forest Park is a place where both tourists and locals can enjoy outdoor activities and forest bathing. The park features a campground, park golf and golf practice ranges, tennis courts, a field athletic course, a sky cycle, a roller slide, and more.

There is also an on-site hot spring lodge called Palace Shofū, which attracts overnight guests. After breaking a sweat, you can relax in the soothing hot spring waters.

This park is perfect for active visitors who want to move their bodies. In fall, don’t miss the New Soba Festival, where you can enjoy fresh Yamagata soba noodles.

4. Dream Farm Direct Market

Dream Farm Direct Market is a beloved local spot that sells Shirataka’s finest ingredients. The store offers fresh local vegetables and fruits, rice, flowers, processed goods, specialty products, and traditional crafts.

During the season, visitors can enjoy strawberry picking at a tourist strawberry farm, which attracts families and tourists from across Japan. You can also find handmade pickles and Haenuki rice, a top-ranked Yamagata variety that has earned the highest taste rating for 14 consecutive years.

Enjoy the taste of freshly harvested products straight from Shirataka’s fields and orchards—it’s a true reflection of the care and passion of local producers.

5. Lively Miyama-no-Sato Nodoka Village

Lively Miyama-no-Sato Nodoka Village is a cozy farm inn built from a 160-year-old relocated sericulture farmhouse. Here you can try soba-making and farming experiences. Next door, you’ll find Miyama Kobo Tsuchi Dango, where you can try pottery, and the Miyama Washi Center, where you can make traditional Japanese paper.

Many fall in love with the hospitality, including sipping local sake around a hearth and enjoying traditional home-cooked dishes from Shirataka. With only four rooms, the atmosphere is intimate and inviting—a peaceful retreat for your weekend getaway.

Enjoy meals made with Shirataka’s vegetables and mountain delights in a relaxed rural setting. It’s a popular spot for city dwellers seeking comfort and healing.

As of December 2023, this facility is temporarily closed.

◎ Summary

Shirataka Town has even more to offer beyond what’s listed here. During the Safflower Festival, you can try safflower picking, dyeing, and even making safflower sake. In autumn, the Shirataka Ayu Festival draws around 30,000 people for salt-grilled sweetfish and imoni stew.

The Ohira Bridge, a suspension bridge featured in the NHK drama Oshin, is another scenic spot offering views of the grand Mogami River and lush greenery. Many people fall in love with Shirataka after visiting and even choose to move there from across the country. After your first visit, you just might be one of them!

Search

Customer Support

Manage Reservation(s)

Search

Customer Support

Manage Reservation(s)

Full of Charm! 5 Must-See Tourist Spots in Shirataka Town, Yamagata Prefecture