Ginzan Onsen: A Timeless Hot Spring Retreat
Step back in time at Ginzan Onsen, a charming hot spring town in Yamagata, Japan, with stunning traditional architecture and soothing thermal waters.
Ginzan Onsen is a picturesque hot spring town nestled in the Yamagata Prefecture mountains. Known for its stunning Taisho-era wooden ryokans lining the Ginzan River, gas-lit streets, and nostalgic atmosphere, it offers a serene escape reminiscent of a scene from Studio Ghibli's 'Spirited Away'.
A brief summary to Ginzan Onsen
- Ginzanshinhata, Obanazawa, Ginzanshinhata, Yamagata, JP
Local tips
- Plan your visit in advance, especially during winter, as Ginzan Onsen is a popular destination and accommodations book up quickly.
- Consider visiting during the week to avoid weekend crowds.
- Take a stroll along the Ginzan River at night to experience the magical atmosphere created by the gas lamps.
- If you're visiting for the day, check if any of the ryokans offer access to their baths for non-staying guests.
- Be aware that general vehicle traffic is prohibited in the onsen town, and visitors must use designated parking lots outside the town center.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Tokyo, take the Yamagata Shinkansen to Oishida Station (approximately 3 hours 20 minutes, 12,500 yen). From Oishida Station, transfer to the Obanazawa Bus 'Ginzan Line' (Hanagasa Bus) for a 30-40 minute ride to Ginzan Onsen (1,000 yen, payable in cash). Buses depart approximately every 60-90 minutes. The bus is not covered by the JR Pass. Check the bus timetable in advance as services are infrequent.
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Car
Visitors traveling by car are required to park at designated parking areas outside the town center as Ginzan Onsen is a pedestrian-only zone. From Yamagata, drive for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes to the parking area near the Ginzan Onsen Tourist Information Center (Ginzanshinhata, Obanazawa, Yamagata Prefecture 999-4333). Parking costs 600 yen per visitor. A shuttle bus operates from the Taisho Romankan bus stop to Ginzan Onsen (500 yen round-trip). During winter, parking may be limited due to snow.
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Air
From Yamagata Airport, take the 'Oishii Yamagata Airport Sightseeing Bus' to Ginzan Onsen (approximately 75-80 minutes, 2,000 yen). There are limited round trips per day, so check the timetable in advance. Alternatively, Obanazawa Taxi offers an Airport Liner service.
Discover more about Ginzan Onsen
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Yamagata Castle Inner Citadel Position Agony
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Tohoku University Kawauchi Campus
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Zao Super Slider
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Zao Onsen Ski Resort (Central Run)
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Zao Onsen & Ski Lodge Scole
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Sendai Station
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Ōmiya Ryokan
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Kajo Park
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Momiji Park
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National Treasure Osaki Hachiman Shrine
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Gassan Shrine
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Museum of Natural History, Tohoku University
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The Miyagi Museum of Art
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Dokko Marsh
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Essential places to dine
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Dewa Sushi
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Dewaya
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Mogamitei
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Shojiya
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Koimari
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Kitchen Terrace Couleur
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Komorebi Cafe
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Route 227s' cafe TOHOKU
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Sendai Izumi PREMIUM OUTLETS
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New Culture Boutique ニウ
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S-PAL Yamagata
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Nishikigaoka Hillside Mall
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Shimanuki Honten (Tohoku Folk Crafts and Crafts)
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AER
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Tohoku Standard Market
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Chamonix
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Aelook
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S-PAL II
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Rock'n Roll & Pro Wrestling Bar THE HAGGY
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PUB THE SWAN
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Nakaguro
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HEY
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Bar
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CRAFTSMAN Sendai
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Tempus
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Zao Kokusai Hotel Yamagata
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