Yamagata: Japan’s Hidden Gem Chosen Among the Best Places to Travel in 2026
This blog is brought to you by Hana, our Local Explorer — a travel-savvy voice from our team who specializes in uncovering Japan's seasonal and regional gems.
If you’re looking for a truly authentic Japan travel experience — one that’s peaceful, spiritual, and far from the tourist crowds — Yamagata Prefecture might just be your next destination.
National Geographic recently included Yamagata in its list of “The Best Places in the World to Travel to in 2026”, describing it as a place of “age-old tradition and otherworldly outdoor experiences, without the crowds.”
Read the original article here (National Geographic)
Why Yamagata Stands Out
While cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka draw millions of visitors each year, Yamagata — located about 200 miles north of Tokyo — remains a serene escape where less than 1% of Japan’s travelers venture. Here, you can experience the country’s spiritual side through sacred mountains, quiet temples, and soothing onsen villages surrounded by nature.
Highlights You Shouldn’t Miss
-
Mount Zao – Famous for its winter ski slopes and rejuvenating hot springs.
-
Ginzan Onsen – One of Japan’s most picturesque hot-spring towns, where traditional ryokan inns line a riverside lit by glowing lanterns.
-
Yamadera Temple – A breathtaking mountaintop temple offering panoramic views and a spiritual climb through centuries of history.
-
Dewa Sanzan Mountains – Join yamabushi mountain monks for meditative hikes and waterfall rituals — a truly unique Japan experience.
-
Mount Gassan – With its deep snow, the ski season here can last until early summer.
-
Lake Shirakawa – In spring, melting snow submerges the forests, creating an ethereal scene perfect for guided canoe tours.
Seasonal Magic
Yamagata is stunning year-round, but its seasonal festivals make it even more special.
-
Uesugi Snow Lantern Festival (February) – Over a thousand lanterns and snow sculptures illuminate the grounds of Uesugi Shrine in Yonezawa.
👉 Official Page (Japanese Only) -
Yamagata Hanagasa Festival (August) – Thousands of dancers in colorful kimonos fill the streets with energy and safflower-adorned hats.
👉 Official Page
How to Get There
Yamagata is easily accessible by Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo — just about 2.5 hours via the Yamagata Shinkansen.
You can reach cities like Yamagata, Kaminoyama Onsen, and Yonezawa directly from Tokyo Station.
Check available routes and tickets here:
Book Your Shinkansen to Yamagata on shinkansen-ticket.com
My Take
Having traveled across Japan many times, Yamagata feels refreshingly untouched — it’s one of those rare places where you can still experience silence, spirituality, and snow in perfect harmony.
If you’ve already seen Tokyo and Kyoto, make Yamagata your next stop — a side of Japan you’ll never forget.
What is shinkansen-ticket.com?
Shinkansen-Ticket.com is a Japan-based travel agency specializing in booking Shinkansen and limited express train tickets—including high-demand routes that are often difficult to secure. With nearly a decade of experience, we’ve built a reputation for reliable, flexible, and traveler-friendly service.
We provide both QR code-based tickets for easy station access, ideal for last-minute bookings, and physical paper tickets, which can be delivered to your home abroad, hotel, major post offices, or even a friend’s residence across Japan—perfect for carefully planned itineraries.
Our expertise in Japan’s rail system allows us to offer customized support with a deep understanding of routes, connections, and seating options—including oversized luggage seats, scenic views, and group arrangements.
Trusted by thousands of repeat customers and partnered with numerous hotels and travel agencies, we regularly assist in arranging train tickets for hotel guests and tour clients across Japan.
© 2025 Shinkansen-Ticket.com.
Seat guide
Reserved Seat (Ordinary Reserved Seat)
Your seat is reserved and secured when you book your tickets, allowing you to head to the station with peace of mind.
Think of it as "economy class" seating.
Green Reserved Seat
Enjoy better seats and free blankets. Popular among Japanese business people, executives, and those who prefer a comfortable travel experience.
Consider it "business class" seating.
GranClass
Known as the "First Class" of Shinkansen seats.
Available only on the Hokuriku and Tohoku/Hokkaido Shinkansen lines, these seats offer airline-like amenities and meals (only on select trains).
They are the most expensive option.
Unreserved Seat
You can take any open seat in the unreserved cars on the departure date (no departure time will be indicated on your ticket).
This is the best option if cost is your priority and you are traveling during less crowded seasons or times.
Hana
The Local Explorer
As a licensed travel services manager with over 10 years of experience in the industry, I’ve spent my career helping international travelers discover the charm of Japan’s regions, seasons, and cultural events.
From lavender fields to autumn leaves, I love showcasing Japan’s natural beauty and local festivals—especially those hidden gems you won’t find in every guidebook. My goal is to inspire your next unforgettable journey.