Yamagata: A Year-Round Destination
Yamagata Prefecture offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and delectable cuisine. From the snow-kissed mountains of winter to the vibrant cherry blossoms of spring, the region presents a diverse and enchanting landscape.
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of lush forests, explore charming historical towns, and indulge in the local delicacies, including world-renowned beef and fresh produce. Yamagata promises an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a harmonious escape throughout the year.
Diversity and preservation of seeds.
There are more than 60 heirloom species of vegetables and fruits cultivated in Tsuruoka.Through the centuries, Tsuruoka’s producers have developed the knowledge that allows them to detect and select the seeds that present the best genetic features to resist climatic changes and diseases.
Giving colors, shapes, and tastes to history
Our chefs strive to find new ways to convey our region’s history through the language of food. Chef Ito Shinkichi has been developing new shojin-ryori menus for more than 15 years. In 2021, Chef Suda Takeshi invented the ‘Kitamaebune menu,’ a menu that tells the history of the Kitamaebune boats.
Around Mt. Gassan, in the middle of the prefecture, are Mt. Zao, Mt. Chokai, and Mt. Azuma. These are mountains are listed among “Japan’s One Hundred Most Famous Mountains,” and the area is rich in scenic beauty.
Yamagata Prefecture is a hidden gem for food lovers! They’re famous for their delicious Yonezawa beef, which is super tender and flavorful. It’s so good, it’s gaining popularity outside of Japan, but it’s still considered a special treat.
To wash it down, you can try some of Yamagata’s amazing sake, made from special rice grown in the area. It’s like liquid sunshine!
Given the widespread popularity of sake in Japan today, it is difficult to imagine that as recently as 800 years ago, even a small quantity was considered a rare luxury. Conversely, in modern Japan, sake is readily available in a variety of establishments, from casual eateries to upscale bars, each offering a diverse selection with distinct flavors and characteristics.
While all 47 prefectures in Japan produce their own unique sake, it is noteworthy that only Yamagata Prefecture has been awarded an official Geographic Indication (GI) by the World Trade Organization, a testament to the exceptional quality and character of its sake.
While Yamagata’s food and drink scene is definitely on the rise, it’s still a bit of a secret to many people around the world. But if you’re lucky enough to try their food, you’ll understand why it’s such a special place!
The Dewa Sanzan, the “Three Sacred Mountains of Dewa,” have been a holy site of Shugendo for more than 1400 years now. This old nature-worshipping spirituality led to new culinary practices that spread down the mountains into the homes of the people living in the plains.
Many of our farmers refuse to let go of the ancestral ways of producing their vegetables, such as the slash & burn technique to preserve the original taste of their products. Our farmers and chefs regularly teach centuries-worth of knowledge to share the benefits of ancestral agriculture.
Shonai, Yamagata
Yamagata Prefecture