✓ Joining us on our Whatsapp Channel: 💬 Explore and Escape!.
Booking through us:
✓ 🏩 🛌 Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget: Booking.com | Agoda.com
✓ 🍹⛱️ Deals on Private xfers, SIM Cards, City tours, Day trips : 📍🗺️ GetYourGuide | 🛵🧳 Klook
There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Yonezawa.
Nestled in the heart of nature’s emerald embrace, Yonezawa beckons with open arms, inviting you to explore its mystical serenity and uncover its hidden treasures.
Let the serene mountains, tranquil streams and lush meadows guide you on a journey of discovery as you immerse yourself in the charm and grandeur of this enchanting Japanese city.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Yonezawa:
1. Uesugi Shrine
Uesugi Shrine, located in Yonezawa, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the Uesugi clan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a traditional Japanese garden and pond, as well as a variety of buildings and torii gates.
Don’t miss: Be sure to see the main hall, which houses a statue of the famous samurai Uesugi Kenshin. Also, make sure to check out the Kannon-ji Temple, located within the shrine grounds.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting in April, don’t miss the Uesugi Spring Festival, which includes traditional Japanese music performances and tea ceremonies. And, if you’re interested in local history, consider visiting the nearby Uesugi Museum.
2. Yonezawa Castle Ruins
Yonezawa Castle Ruins is a historic site situated in Yonezawa city, Yamagata prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The castle ruins offer a glimpse into the rich history of the region, with well-preserved stone walls and ruins of castle gates.
Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll around the park while admiring the impressive views of the city from the top of the hill.
Don’t miss: The ruins of the castle gates and the stone walls are a must-see. The Honmaru (main castle keep) and Sannomaru (secondary castle keep) are also popular among visitors.
Insider travel tips: – For a truly immersive experience, visit during the Yonezawa Uesugi Festival held in mid-spring.
3. Yonezawa City Uesugi Museum
The Yonezawa City Uesugi Museum is a history and art museum located in Yonezawa City, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the exhibits that showcase the history of the Uesugi clan, a powerful feudal family during the Edo period.
The art collection includes hundreds of pieces of artwork, such as pottery, calligraphy, and armor. There are also interactive displays that provide a hands-on experience of the museum’s exhibits.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the carefully crafted replica of the Uesugi Castle.
The replica is incredibly detailed and gives visitors a glimpse into what life was like inside the castle walls during the Edo period.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the museum’s website for current exhibitions and special programs. Guided tours are available in English and Japanese, and visitors can also rent audio guides.
Don’t forget to stop at the museum shop for unique souvenirs, including books, postcards, and replicas of pottery and armor.
4. Yonezawa Park
A beautiful urban park located in the center of Yonezawa City, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the park to admire its natural beauty and impressive landscape design, with a large pond and various walking paths.
There are also athletic facilities including a stadium, baseball field, and tennis courts.
Don’t miss: The traditional Japanese garden, located within the park, features a stunning teahouse and koi pond. In the summertime, the park is host to various festivals and events, including a popular fireworks show.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing afternoon taking in the views of the park.
For a unique experience, try to visit during cherry blossom season or when the autumn leaves are at their peak for an unforgettable display of nature’s beauty.
5. Yonezawa City Museum
Yonezawa City Museum is a local history museum located in Yonezawa City, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum showcases the history and culture of Yonezawa City through exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can learn about the local samurai clans, traditional crafts, and famous historical figures.
Don’t miss: One of the key exhibits at the museum is the “Uesugi Kenshin Room,” which displays the personal items and armor of the powerful samurai lord.
The museum also features a beautiful Japanese garden outside.
Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Mondays and holidays.
6. Kajikazawa Hachiman Shrine
Kajikazawa Hachiman Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Yonezawa, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can see the beautiful cherry blossoms in spring or the magnificent autumn foliage in fall. You can also take a pleasant walk around the shrine grounds.
Don’t miss: Do not miss the chance to try the local specialty, soba noodles, made with the pure water from the nearby mountains.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting during the summer festival in late July, make sure to stay for the fireworks display over the nearby river.
Also, be aware that the shrine is located on a steep hill, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some uphill walking.
7. Matsugasaki Park
Matsugasaki Park is a picturesque park located in Yonezawa City, Japan.
What to see or do: – Take a leisurely stroll around the park and enjoy its beautiful natural surroundings.
Don’t miss: – The park’s cherry blossom season in early April, where the cherry trees around the pond burst into pink and white blooms.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the park early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter and more peaceful experience.
8. Bunshokan Museum
Bunshokan Museum is a historical museum located in Yonezawa, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the exhibits that showcase the history of the Uesugi Clan and Yonezawa City. The displays feature artifacts, art, and historical documents that give visitors insight into the cultural heritage of the area.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the famous suit of armor worn by Uesugi Kenshin, a notable samurai warrior from the Sengoku period.
The museum also houses a collection of antique weapons, including swords, bows, and guns.
Insider travel tips: The museum offers guided tours in English, making it an excellent destination for English-speaking visitors looking to learn more about Japanese history.
Plan to spend at least an hour exploring the exhibits and taking in the museum’s stunning architecture.
9. Matsugasaki Shrine
Matsugasaki Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Yonezawa, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a peaceful stroll on the shrine grounds and admire the unique architecture of the main hall and gate. You can also pay your respects and offer a prayer at the main shrine.
Don’t miss: The beautiful cherry blossom trees in full bloom during spring are a sight to behold. Also, the Torii gate made of Japanese cedar trees is the largest one in Japan, measuring at 17m in height.
Insider travel tips: The shrine is located a little off the beaten path, so it’s best to go by car.
If you’re visiting in autumn, don’t forget to try the local specialty, Yonezawa beef, which is considered one of the best wagyu beef in Japan.
10. Akayu Onsen
Akayu Onsen is a hot spring resort located in Yonezawa, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy soaking in the natural hot spring waters at one of the many public baths or ryokans (traditional Japanese inns).
The area also offers hiking trails and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: Sampling Yonezawa beef, a high-quality Japanese beef that is locally raised and prized for its marbling and tenderness.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the fall to see the stunning autumn foliage in the surrounding mountains. Some ryokans also offer Kaiseki ryori, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner, which is an unforgettable culinary experience.
11. Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery
Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery is a renowned whisky distillery located in Yonezawa, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a free tour of the distillery to learn about the history of whisky making in Japan and witness the whisky making process.
Visitors can also sample some of their award-winning blends.
Don’t miss: The tasting sessions where visitors can sample some of the distillery’s exclusive range of blended and single malt whiskies, including the famous Taketsuru brand.
Insider travel tips: Book a guided tour in advance as the distillery can get quite busy during peak season.
Be sure to check out the on-site whisky shop where you can purchase limited-edition bottles of Nikka whisky, including some exclusive collector’s items.
The distillery is located in a beautiful natural setting, so take a scenic walk around the area and enjoy the stunning views.
12. Komatsu Mountain Park
A beautiful park located on the slopes of Mount Komatsu in Yonezawa, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy a scenic hike through the lush forests and around the park’s ponds and waterfalls. Take in panoramic views of Yonezawa from the observation deck.
Relax in the park’s hot springs and foot bath. Visit the nearby Komatsu-ji Temple, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.
Don’t miss: The park’s stunning autumn foliage, which typically peaks in late October to early November. The annual Komatsu Fire Festival held every August, featuring traditional Japanese performances and fireworks.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Take advantage of the free shuttle bus that runs between the park and Yonezawa station. Stay overnight in the park’s lodging facilities for a truly immersive experience.
13. Oyama Shrine
Oyama Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in Yonezawa, Japan. It was built in 860 AD and is dedicated to Oyama Tsumugi-no-mikoto, the kami (deity) of silk culture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful shrine grounds, which include a grand torii gate, a haiden (worship hall), a komainu (guardian dog) statue, and a scenic stone staircase leading up to the main building.
The shrine also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Oyama Tsumugi Festival in May.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the famous Oyama Noh stage located on the shrine grounds. It is considered one of the oldest Noh stages in Japan and is designated as a National Treasure.
Insider travel tips: – If you visit during the Oyama Tsumugi Festival, be prepared for large crowds and limited parking. Consider taking public transportation or arriving early.
14. Kajikazawa Fudo Temple
Kajikazawa Fudo Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Yonezawa, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors to the temple can explore the beautiful grounds and buildings, including the main temple hall that houses a statue of Fudo Myoo, a fierce-looking deity who is said to protect against evil.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the temple’s gardens, which are particularly stunning in the fall when the leaves change color.
Insider travel tips: If you visit in February, you can witness the temple’s annual Setsubun festival, during which visitors throw beans to drive away evil spirits and pray for good fortune in the coming year.
And don’t forget to try the local specialty, Yonezawa beef, which is said to be some of the best in Japan.
15. Yonezawa Ski Resort
Yonezawa Ski Resort is a popular ski destination located in Yonezawa city, nestled in the mountains of Yamagata prefecture in Japan.
What to see or do: The ski resort features 12 well-groomed slopes that cater to skiers and snowboarders of all levels, from beginner to advanced. There is also a terrain park for those who are looking for some extra fun and thrill.
The resort offers rental equipment, ski and snowboard lessons, and even a kids’ snow park, making it a great destination for families.
Don’t miss: While skiing or snowboarding, make sure to take in the stunning scenic views of the mountains and absorb the peaceful and tranquil surroundings.
Don’t miss the chance to try some of the local delicacies such as Ramen noodles, Soba noodles, and other local dishes at the nearby restaurants.
Insider travel tips: Avoid the busier weekends and holidays to fully enjoy the ski resort without the crowds. The resort also offers night skiing which is a unique experience and definitely worth trying while you’re there.
Lastly, make sure to visit the nearby Uesugi Shrine, one of the most impressive shrines in Northern Japan surrounded by beautiful gardens.