2026 Yuza Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

Mt. Chokai in winter, but it was covered in clouds. #Mt. Chokai #Inaho Express #Sea of ​​Japan

We reached the summit on the first day and were excited to do the same on the second day, but there was a very strong wind blowing at Mihama hut. We decided to retreat quietly because we didn't want to get injured. On the way down, we enjoyed the beautiful view of the coastline of the Sea of ​​Japan below us. #Mountain climbing #Mt. Chokai

There are many famous snowfields in high mountains in Japan. The snowfield of Mt. Chokai is one of them. Despite it being early summer, there is still a lot of snow remaining, and a cool air is in the air. You can walk through this snowfield, but be sure to use chain spikes or light crampons. There are also traces of fallen rocks and holes here and there, so we recommend that you basically follow the trail. Even on the trail, you will pass through some snowfields. #MountainClimbing #Mt.Chokai #SnowScenery #SnowGrey

This mountain hut is located on the mountainside of Mt. Chokai, right in front of Lake Chokai. On the route up from Kisakata side, the only other hut is at the summit, so it is used as a relay base. If you stay here for a night, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Sea of ​​Japan in the evening. #Mt.Chokai #MountainClimbing

It's a strange sight, with snow still remaining here and there even though it's early summer. Snowfields are common on high mountains, but perhaps because of Mt. Chokai's high altitude and the location, where the temperature doesn't rise that much, there are still snowfields here and there. Once you get here, you'll be able to enjoy a fun climb while looking at the summit of Mt. Chokai, your goal. #MountainClimbing #Mt.Chokai

After climbing the first slope of Mt. Chokai and reaching the ridge, you will reach a point overlooking the round crater below. This is Lake Chokai. Because we came so early in summer, parts of the lake were still frozen. From Lake Chokai, climbing Mt. Chokai becomes really fun. #MountainClimbing #Mt.Chokai

Mount Chokai stands symbolically on the border between Akita and Yamagata prefectures, in an area facing the Sea of ​​Japan. Its magnificent shape is also known as Dewa Fuji or Shonai Fuji, and it has been selected as one of Japan's 100 famous mountains. It is extremely well-known and is undoubtedly a mountain well worth climbing, but the climb takes a long time and involves walking across snowy fields. Be sure to be well prepared when you go. #MountainClimbing #MountChokai #Yamagata #Akita

Mt. Chokai is a famous peak in Tohoku. It is a very windy mountain because it is close to the sea, but as the season progresses, it is completely covered in snow. The base of the mountain is still covered in autumn leaves, so it is a strange sight where you can enjoy both autumn leaves and snow scenery at the same time. This is a view that can only be seen during this season. #autumn leaves #snow scenery #Mt. Chokai

#Overseas Travel The Takase River, a waterway that cuts through the heart of Kyoto, is a historical asset dating back to the Edo period. Along the riverbank, temples like Tokugawa-ji Temple and Kiyomizu-ji Temple, once the residences of high priests, line the river, allowing visitors to experience Japanese spiritual culture while strolling. Access is a 15-minute walk from Kyoto Station, and a walking path runs along the river. Recommended times are cherry blossoms in spring (April) and autumn foliage in autumn (November), with the seasonal colors reflected in the river's waters creating a spectacular scene. Popular activities include relaxing on the Takase River benches, exploring the traditional Sanjo Kehan ​​market, and connecting with the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Trail. Be sure to bring an umbrella and waterproof shoes, as the riverside atmosphere is even more captivating on rainy days. The Takase River is a vibrant cultural space that connects Kyoto's past and present.

#TravelWithPochiKatsu Maruike Pond in Yuza Town, Yamagata Prefecture The emerald green spring is so beautiful.

Located deep in the mountains of Yusa Town, at the foot of Mount Chokai in Yamagata Prefecture, "Dohara Falls" (Dohara no Taki) is a serene and picturesque destination. A shrine is enshrined halfway up the mountain, and from the rocky area behind it, spring water from Mount Chokai gushes out and flows down, forming two waterfalls that cascade on either side of the shrine. The name "Dohara" comes from the resemblance of the water gushing out from the mountainside to a "dohara" (belly). The waterfall has a drop of about 3 meters. Depending on the season or rainfall, the water volume varies, and during my visit, it was slightly modest. Nevertheless, the abundance of negative ions makes it a wonderfully refreshing spot! The shrine houses a statue of Fudo Myo-o, and the moss-covered rocks at the base of the waterfall are adorned with various Buddhist sculptures. There is a free water-drawing station at the base of the waterfall, where locals frequently come to collect fresh spring water. ＜Dohara Falls＞ 📍Location: Yoshide, Yusa Town, Akumi District, Yamagata Prefecture 💰Admission free, water collection free (bringing your own bottles is recommended) 🅿️Free parking (Note: No public restrooms available) 🚗Access: About 10 minutes by car from JR Yusa Station, about 20 minutes by car from Sakata Minato IC on the Nihonkai-Tohoku Expressway, and about 20 minutes by car from Maruike-sama.

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip Maruike-sama, a mysterious spring located at the foot of Mt. Chokai in Yamagata Prefecture A pond filled only with spring water, 20m in diameter and 3.5m deep Thanks to the clear, beautiful spring water, the fallen trees do not rot, and the sight of them lying on the bottom of the water as they are is truly fantastical This pond has been worshiped as a sacred object by the local community since ancient times, and is carefully protected A shrine is enshrined on the lakeside, and you can also pray there It can be reached in a 5-minute walk from the parking lot, and there is a promenade around the pond Admission is free 📍Location: 57 Naoyo Arakawa, Yuza-cho, Akumi-gun, Yamagata Prefecture 🗓️Open 24 hours, free admission, free parking available 🚗Access: About 5 minutes by car from JR Fukiura Station, about 25 minutes by car from Sakata Minato IC on the Nihonkai Tohoku Expressway #Yamagata Prefecture #Spectacular view #Spring-fed pond

Among the many roadside stops we’ve encountered on our Japan road trip, Roadside Station Chokai Flat definitely stands out as one of the biggest and most lively. This rest stop isn’t just a place to stretch your legs — it’s almost like a mini food and produce market. There were ramen stalls, BBQ fish stands, and rows of fresh local produce, likely brought in by farmers from nearby areas. The variety was impressive, and everything felt fresh and authentic. The washrooms were clean and well-maintained, as expected in Japan. I noticed quite a few local drivers and workers grabbing quick bites or shopping for fresh goods — a sign of how popular and practical this stop is, not just for tourists but also for locals. Whether you’re on a long drive or just want to sample some local flavors in a relaxed, casual setting, this is a great place to drop by. #summervacay #RoadsideStationChokai #MichiNoEkiJapan #JapanRoadTrip #TohokuTravel #JapaneseRestStop #LocalEatsJapan #FarmFreshJapan #ChokaiFlat #BBQFishJapan #RamenStopJapan #japan #japantrip #tohoku #travel #tohokutrip

Mount Chō at 2,677 m is a mountain located in Japan. It is part of the Hida Mountains in Chūbu-Sangaku National Park, and is located in the cities of Azumino and Matsumoto in Nagano Prefecture. It is located to the south of Mount Jōnen on the ridgeline of the Jōnen Mountain Range. According to the grading of Mt. Shinshu, Mt. Chogatake has a technical grade of B (depending on the location, it may pass through streams, cliffs, snowy streams, etc., so climbing experience is required). It is also possible to make a day trip from the Mimata trailhead, but basically we recommend staying overnight at Chogatake Hütte. Let's plan a mountain trip according to your physical strength and level.

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Yuza for a day trip, and it was an absolutely delightful experience. The journey itself was breathtaking, with scenic views that set the perfect tone for the day. Our first stop was the charming cafe, *Gallery and Tearoom Sui*. As soon as we arrived, the stunning views around the cafe took my breath away. It’s nestled in a beautiful location, offering panoramic vistas that make for a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The owners of the cafe were incredibly kind and supportive, making us feel right at home. The space itself is warm and inviting, ideal for anyone looking for a moment of tranquility. One of the highlights was a small forest nearby, where there’s a quaint little cabin that functions as a library. It’s the perfect spot for some quiet reflection or reading, adding to the overall serenity of the area. After a relaxing time at the cafe, we drove to *Maruike Pond*, which was equally mesmerizing. The crystal-clear water, surrounded by lush nature, made it feel like a hidden paradise. The peace and natural beauty of the area were exactly what I needed to unwind. Overall, this trip to Yuza was a perfect getaway—whether you're traveling alone, with a partner, or as a family. The combination of beautiful landscapes, lovely places to visit, and kind locals made it an unforgettable experience. Highly recommend!

Located on the border between Yamagata and Akita prefectures, it faces the Sea of ​​Japan and has an elevation of 2,236 meters! It's rare to find a mountain facing the sea✨ One of the mountains in Tohoku, also known as "Dewa Fuji"! If it's clear, you can see the Sea of ​​Japan from the Hokotate Observatory at the 5th station! I climbed up to the 7th station! At the relay point on the trail, 7th station Mihama, at an elevation of 1,700 meters, there is Lake Chokai, and the scenery is incredibly beautiful! There are lots of cute flowers blooming on Mt. Chokai, such as Chokai thistle and Chokai bran! It was fun climbing while looking at the flowers! I was nervous because it was my first time climbing, but I was really grateful that they taught me how to breathe and adjusted my walking speed to suit me😭 ⚠︎ The parking lot was full even at 6:30 a.m. on a Sunday💦 I couldn't find a spot that was open, even when parking on the street💦 Please go and check it out! #Mount Chokai #Mountain climbing #Lake Chokai #Nikaho City #Kisagata #Akita #Akita trip #Nature and spectacular views

① #Mototaki Underground Water Address: Mototaki, Seki, Kisakata-machi, Nikaho-shi, Akita Access: 15 minutes by car from Kisakata Station Opening hours: Open every day ② #Roadside Station Nemuno-Oka Address: 73-1 Oshiokoshi, Kisakata-machi, Nikaho-shi, Akita Access: 6 minutes by car from Kisakata Station Opening hours: 9:00-21:00 ⇨The observation bath is very popular✨ It's great to soak in the bathtub while watching the sun set over the Sea of ​​Japan! A new Montbell store has recently opened, and you can now rent e-bikes! ③ #Mt. Chokai Address: Fukiura, Yuza-machi, Akumi-gun, Yamagata Access: 30 minutes by car from Kisakata Station Mt. Chokai is located on the border between Yamagata and Akita! When it's sunny, you can see a very beautiful view! ④ #GuesthouseFumoto Address: 4-5 Yokooka Maeda, Kisakata-machi, Nikaho-shi, Akita Access: 15 minutes by car from Kisakata Station Full of plans for workcation and enjoying nature◎ ⑤ #Kinpo Shrine Address: Kotaki, Kisakata-machi, Nikaho-shi, Akita Access: 15 minutes by car from Kisakata Station Sweets shop opening hours: 10:00-17:00 Nikaho-shi, Akita-ken has lots of great spots! For your next trip✌️ #FuriTabi #Nikaho #AkitaTourism #Akita #NikahoCity

Some people don't often choose Yamagata as a travel destination, but there are many wonderful places in Yamagata! This time, we will introduce a refreshing spot in the northern part of Yamagata Prefecture that is perfect for summer! The place is "Maruike Pond" and "Ushiwatari River (Baikamo)" in Yuza Town, Yamagata Prefecture. Maruike Pond is a spring-fed pond that looks bright blue, and Ushiwatari River is a clear stream that flows nearby. ✨ When it comes to blue ponds, Hokkaido and Aomori may be famous, but this one is not as big as them, but it also has a beautiful blue color. 🟦 Ushiwatari River is home to Baikamo, a water plant that can only grow in clear water. 🌱 You can't see it now, but in May and June, the flowers bloom and pop out of the water, swaying gently with the flow of the water, which is a truly healing sight. 😍 In autumn, it is also a place where salmon swim upstream, and the sight of them swaying gently with the flow of the water is also a delight. 🐟 More than enough! There are probably still many people who don't know about it! Please go and feel relaxed! In the same town of Yuza, there is an ancient temple that gives off an incredible atmosphere! That temple is "Eisenji Temple". I've introduced it in another post! Information 📍Maruike Pond and Ushiwatari River Address: 57 Naoyo Arakawa, Yuza Town, Akumi District, Yamagata Prefecture Access: 40 minutes by car from Shonai Airport 1.5 hours by car from Shinjo Station Opening hours: None Cost: None #Sakura2024 #DomesticTravel #BreathtakingViewsofJapan #YamagataTourism

When you go to the countryside, there are spots that are still unexplored even for tourism! This time, I will introduce "Eisenji Temple" in Yuza Town, Yamagata Prefecture. By the way, Eisenji is written as "Yosenji" and pronounced "Yosenji". Its history dates back to the 7th century, and it was moved to its current location around 1400. The highlight of the temple is the moss-covered stone steps and red gate, as shown in the top image. The way the moss grows on the stone steps makes it seem like no one has stepped on them since they were built, making it a very mysterious place. I couldn't find a "No Entry" sign, but the atmosphere is so overwhelming that no one enters. If you go there, please do not enter these stairs to preserve the scenery! There is a path in the temple grounds that you can go to without going through these stairs, so it's okay. If you go further into the temple grounds, you will find old stone monuments, stone statues, towers, and other sights that you can only see in manga and movies! It's a difficult place to get to, but I hope you will definitely see this sight! I think it's quite a high hurdle to go just for this place, so there's one more place I want you to visit in Yuza Town! That's "Maruike-sama" I've posted about it separately, so please take a look at that too! That's all! What do you think? It may not be an easy place to choose for sightseeing, but how about a trip to experience an ancient temple on a trip away from crowded places? ~~~~~~Information~~~~~~📍Eisenji TempleAddress: 3 Naose Nakamichi, Yuza-machi, Akumi-gun, Yamagata PrefectureVisiting hours: Free to worshipCost: Free *Parking availableCaution: The mountain behind is quite steep, so be careful when you go⚠️~ ...

Chokaisan Omonokimi Shrine, the Ichinomiya of Dewa Province, located in Yamagata Prefecture. There are several goshuin stamps that can be obtained at the shrine office of Fukiuraguchinomiya Shrine! Among them, there is Maruike Shrine, and if you look it up, you can walk there‼ ️ And there is still a lot of time before the train🚃. I thought, "Let's go!" and went on foot. The entrance is at the back of a country road further away from the station. As you walk while looking at Chokaisan, you will see the Ushiwatari River. Because salmon🐟 are hatching here, there is a picture of salmon🐟 on the bridge + Maruike✨ If you go further down the road, you will see Maruike! It is surrounded by trees, and the light hitting the pond gives it a beautiful emerald green color😆 Breathtakingly beautiful💖Really pretty💚💙 There were amulets at the shrine, so I left my first offering and received one❗️ ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ ꕥShrine name: Maruike Shrine ꕥAddress: Yuza-machi, Akumi-gun, Yamagata Prefecture Naoyo Arakawa 57 ꕥAccess 🚉Fukiura Station → 20 minutes walk ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ #besttrip2023 #Mt. Chokai #Shrines and Temples #Shrines Tour #Yamagata Tourism

Yamagata edition of the nationwide Ichinomiya pilgrimage. Mount Chokai Omonokimi Shrine is the Ichinomiya of Dewa Province. There are two locations: Warabioka and Fukiura. These two are village shrines, and the main shrine is on the summit. First, we travel by taxi 🚕. Mount Chokai is an active volcano 🌋, so people have prayed to it to calm eruptions. Later, the idea of ​​it being a blessing from the mountain was born. The "monokimi" in the shrine's name has a strong purifying effect, as it avoids impurity. It is also the guardian deity of agriculture, food, clothing and shelter, as mentioned earlier. But at Warabiokaguchinomiya, there were hardly any people in the grounds! It also had a slightly gloomy atmosphere. Because there were no people around, spider webs were strung up everywhere, making it very difficult to get through! However, the atmosphere emanating from the shrine seemed very clear✨ Finally, when I was finishing my prayers, another worshipper and someone cleaning the grounds showed up😮💨 Since I'd come all this way, I wanted to see everything✨ So I tried to go up to the ruins of the former main hall. The stairs were long, unbalanced and narrow, making it especially difficult to go down💦 (There's no way I could wear heels‼️) When I got to the top, there was a monument commemorating the training in the mountains. After that, I continued on, but the path was unclear❓ It seemed a bit suspicious, and I wasn't sure I'd be able to come back, so I gave up and turned back. The atmosphere felt a little gloomy, but the longer I stayed there, the more familiar I became with the shrine. ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ ꕥShrine name: Mt. Chokai Omonoki Shrine Warabiokaguchinomiya ꕥAddress: 51 Matsugaoka, Kamiwarabioka, Yuza-cho, Akumi-gun, Yamagata ꕥAccess 🚕 About 10 minutes from Yuza Station ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ #besttrip2023 #Mt. Chokai #Shrine tour #Shrines and temples #Solo trip

Mount Chokai Omonokimi Shrine is the Ichinomiya of Dewa Province, located in Yamagata Prefecture. There are three shrines in total: the main shrine at the summit of Mount Chokai, and Warabioka and Fukiura in the Satomiya. Fukiuraguchinomiya, one of the Satomiya shrines, has two main shrines behind its worship hall. On the left are Gassan Shrine, which enshrines Gassan-no-kami, and Fukiurano-Kuchinomiya, which enshrines Omonokimi-no-kami. These two shrines are known as Ryosho-miya! The vibrant vermilion-painted main shrine and the worship hall with its solemn atmosphere. It was amazing whether you looked at it from up close or a little further away😊✨ ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ ꕥShrine name: Mt. Chokai Omonoki Shrine Fukiuraguchinomiya ꕥAddress: 1 Fukiura Nunokura, Yuza-machi, Akumi-gun, Yamagata Prefecture ꕥAccess 🚉 Fukiura Station → About 6 minutes walk ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ #besttrip2023 #Mt. Chokai #Shrines and Temples #Shrine Tour #Solo Travel #Yamagata Tourism