Yamagata (山形県) is a prefecture that is located in the western part of the Tohoku Region (東北地方), and is known for its scenic mountains and abundance of fruits. One of the cities in Yamagata Prefecture is Yonezawa (米沢市), which has become synonymous with the highly prized Yonezawa beef. But do you know you can also enjoy an authentic, hands-on experience in the city?
Yonezawa: A city rich in tradition
The city of Yonezawa is located in the southern part of Yamagata Prefecture, and is directly accessible from Tokyo and other major cities in Japan by railway thanks to the Yamagata Shinkansen (山形新幹線), which spans between Tōkyō Station (東京駅) and Shinjō Station (新庄駅). Yonezawa Station (米沢駅) is one of the stops along the Yamagata Shinkansen, making it a cinch for visitors to travel to the city.
Safflower: The Symbol of Yamagata
Fun fact: safflowers (ベニバナ) are reddish–yellow flowers that are synonymous with Yamagata Prefecture, and are traditionally used for making dyes even to this day. There are safflower-dyeing workshops that teach how to dye textiles in Yamagata, including in Yonezawa.
Another fun fact: Safflower dyeing is an important part of Yonezawa weaving, a traditional textile weaving method with more than 200 years of history. Visitors taking part in safflower dyeing workshops can enjoy hands-on experience with the dyeing process and appreciate and be part of the city’s history!
Nenju bracelets: A heritage of Yonezawa
Another traditional craft of Yonezawa is making nenju bracelets, otherwise known as nenju-tsukuri (念珠づくり). Nenju (念珠) are Buddhist prayer beads made from natural stones that come in various colours. Visitors can make their own nenju bracelets using prayer beads of their choice. They make cute souvenirs, don’t you think?
There are many places in Yamagata where visitors can make their own nenju bracelets, one of which is Koshi Daikokuten (甲子大黒天), a temple located in Onogawa Onsen (小野川温泉). The temple and the surrounding area are recognised as a “power spot” where visitors can get spiritually rejuvenated, and visitors can learn more about the local tradition and heritage.
Enjoy the local hot springs at Onogawa Onsen
And of course, one of Yamagata’s best offerings to visitors is its plentiful hot springs, and one hot spring area in Yonezawa is Onogawa Onsen. Said to have been founded more than 1,200 years ago, the hot spring area is lauded for its hot spring water which has healing properties, and one’s visit to Yonezawa would not be complete without a hot spring experience.
Traditional lunch at Earl Uesugi Residence
Another historical landmark of Yonezawa is Earl Uesugi Residence (上杉伯爵亭), located between the Yonezawa Castle Ruins and Yonezawa City Uesugi Museum. The building served as a place of residence for Earl Uesugi Mochinori (上杉 茂憲), who was the feudal lord of Yonezawa Domain during the Edo Period. Today, the building houses a restaurant serving ornate, traditional Japanese cuisine using local ingredients.
Earl Uesugi Residence (上杉伯爵亭)
Address: 1-3-60 Marunouchi, Yonezawa, Yamagata 992-0052
Access: 10-minute taxi ride from JR Yonezawa Station (JR米沢駅)
See you at Yonezawa!
Yamagata is a prefecture that is steeped in natural beauty and rich history and tradition, and Yonezawa is one of the best places to appreciate what the prefecture has to offer. From traditional crafts to hot springs, the city makes for an unforgettable experience for all visitors, and is worth checking out if they want to experience something different for a change!
If you want to have a memorable experience in Yonezawa, then we have great news: we have a travel package just for you at JAPAN RAIL CLUB! Just click here and follow the steps to find out more, and we shall see you at Yonezawa soon!
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