Yamagata

Travel Guide

A mountain with autumn foliage and a traditional wooden building on top.
A beach with clear blue water, sandy shore, and a town with buildings on a hillside in the background.
A mountainous landscape with a temple on a rock, a valley with houses, and a river.
A cherry blossom tree in full bloom with traditional Japanese architecture in the background.
A town nestled in a valley with a river running through it, surrounded by lush green hills and mountains.

Where to stay in Yamagata

Find the best Yamagata areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Yamagata
Learn more about Yamagata
A snow-covered ski slope with a ski lift, buildings, and mountains in the background.
Photo by SpringField1967
Open Photo by SpringField1967

Zaoonsen

While visiting Zaoonsen, you might make a stop by sights like Zao Chuo Ropeway and Zao Sanroku Ropeway.

Kasumicho

While there might not be top attractions in Kasumicho, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Yamagin Kenmin Hall and Yamagata Castle.

Futabacho

When in Futabacho, you can plan a visit to Yamagin Kenmin Hall and Yamagata Castle, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

A red pagoda on a rock, a valley with houses, and mountains in the background.

Nanukamachi

Though Nanukamachi might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Yamagata Castle and Yamagin Kenmin Hall.

Jonanmachi

Jonanmachi might not have many top sights, but Yamagin Kenmin Hall and Yamagata Castle are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Hotel Metropolitan Yamagata

Hotel Metropolitan Yamagata

3.5 out of 5
Kasumi-cho 1-Chome No. 1 Yamagata Yamagata-ken
$67 nightly
The price is $74 total per night from Dec 3 to Dec 4
$74 total
Dec 3 - Dec 4
Stay at this hotel in Yamagata. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,005 reviews)
"One of the best hotels we have ever stayed at. The room was exceptional with lots of space. The hotel itself is within the railway station complex with easy transport connections. Despite it's proximity to the station we heard no noise whatsoever. We would certainly recommend this hotel ."

Reviewed on Oct 31, 2026

Hotel Metropolitan Yamagata
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Yamagata-ekimae

Daiwa Roynet Hotel Yamagata-ekimae

2.5 out of 5
2-9 Saiwa Yamagata Yamagata
$66 nightly
The price is $73 total per night from Nov 15 to Nov 16
$73 total
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Stay at this hotel in Yamagata. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Popular attractions S-PAL and Yamagata Museum of Science ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (414 reviews)
"I really loved this hotel. It was very clean, the room was fairly spacious, and there were lots of nice amenities."

Reviewed on Oct 23, 2026

Daiwa Roynet Hotel Yamagata-ekimae
Yamagata Nanokamachi Washington Hotel

Yamagata Nanokamachi Washington Hotel

3 out of 5
1-4-31 Nanokamachi Yamagata Yamagata
$49 nightly
The price is $55 total per night from Dec 3 to Dec 4
$55 total
Dec 3 - Dec 4
Stay at this hotel in Yamagata. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and parking (surcharge). Popular attractions Nanukamachi Palaca Weir and Bunshokan are ...
7.2/10 Good! (322 reviews)
"A cosy hotel room with a good breakfast option"

Reviewed on Dec 19, 2025

Yamagata Nanokamachi Washington Hotel
See all 317 properties in Yamagata
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Nature Cottage Akabeko

Nature Cottage Akabeko

3 out of 5
1092-38 Onogawahara Kitashiobara Fukushima
Stay at this cottage in Kitashiobara. Enjoy free parking, laundry facilities, and slippers. Popular attractions Bandai 3D World and Goshikinuma Lake are located ...
Nature Cottage Akabeko
Tabinoteitaku Zao Miyagi

Tabinoteitaku Zao Miyagi

4 out of 5
4-413 Yatsuyama, Togatta Onsen, Zao-machi Zao Miyagi
Stay at this vacation home in Zao. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and hot springs on site. Popular attractions Miyagi Zao Kokeshi Doll Hall and Zao Dairy Farm ...
Tabinoteitaku Zao Miyagi
Tabinoteitaku wa

Tabinoteitaku wa

3.5 out of 5
4-146 Yumoto, Akiu-machi, Taihaku-ku Sendai-shi Miyagi
Stay at this vacation home in Sendai. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and slippers. Popular attractions Sendai Kaleidoscope Museum and Rairaikyo Gorge are located ...
8/10 Very Good! (1 review)
"小さい子どもがいる家族、友人グループで使用するならアリかも！"

Reviewed on Sep 30, 2026

Tabinoteitaku wa
See all properties in Yamagata
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Yamagata attractions

Zao Hot Springs Ski Resort

8.8/10 (121 reviews)
Hit the slopes in Yamagata with a visit to Zao Hot Springs Ski Resort. Discover the area's mountain views and temples.
See properties

Frequently asked questions

Is Yamagata worth visiting?
Yamagata is worth visiting for its standout attractions, including the Zao Hot Springs Ski Resort and historic Yamagata Castle. Travelers can also explore distinct areas like Zaoonsen and enjoy a diverse food scene, with options for both Asian and European dining.
When is the best time to visit Yamagata?
The best time to visit Yamagata is from May through September, when the climate is most pleasant for exploring. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March are a good option, offering a cooler, often snowy, experience perfect for winter activities.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Yamagata?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Yamagata depend on what you want to see:

  • Zaoonsen is known for its scenic access, with the Zao Sanroku Ropeway, Zao Chuo Ropeway, and Zao Sky Cable providing views and transport.

What is Yamagata known for?
Yamagata is known for its outdoor attractions like Zao Hot Springs Ski Resort and the Zao Chuo Ropeway. Travelers can also explore historical sites such as Yamagata Castle. This coastal city, located in Japan on the Sea of Japan and along the Sukawa River, offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
What is a good itinerary length for Yamagata?
A good itinerary length for Yamagata is two to three days to explore Yamagata Castle and take a private day tour in the city, perhaps including the Zao Chuo Ropeway. For an extended stay of four to five days, travelers can enjoy the Zao Hot Springs Ski Resort and consider a multi-day experience like the Geisha Dance and Jellyfish tour. See Yamagata Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Yamagata?
Yamagata offers a mix of historical sites, outdoor adventures, and unique cultural experiences for travelers:


How do I plan a trip to Yamagata?
To plan your trip to Yamagata, search for places to stay on Expedia, perhaps focusing on areas like Zaoonsen. Book your flights, rental car, and activities such as a Private Day Tour in Yamagata City or a visit to Zao Hot Springs Ski Resort in advance. Remember to pair outdoor plans with indoor backups for weather flexibility.
What cuisines can you find in Yamagata?
In Yamagata you can find Japanese cuisine, with a wide array of dishes from traditional sushi and ramen to savory tempura and udon. Travelers can also enjoy various other dining options, including European, Italian, and Latin American flavors.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Yamagata?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Yamagata by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Yamagata with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Yamagata trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Yamagata?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Yamagata can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Yamagata trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Yamagata trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Yamagata trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Yamagata trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Yamagata?
If it's your first trip to Yamagata, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Yamagata hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Yamagata hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Yamagata

A cityscape with a mix of modern and traditional buildings, a river, and surrounding greenery.

Sendai

A person making a heart shape with their hands behind a wooden fence, surrounded by blooming cherry blossom trees.

Tendo

A snow-covered mountain landscape with a ski lift and a green sign.

Zao

A town with red-roofed houses and green mountains in the background.

Kaminoyama

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