【Like Spirited Away】The Hidden Gem of Ginzan Onsen

Ginzan Onsen is a hidden hot spring located in Yamagata Prefecture. It takes about 2.5 hours to get there from Yamagata by combining bus and train rides. 🕰️Operating Hours: Day-use hot springs: 9:00 AM–1:00 PM or 3:00 PM Dining spots: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM After the last bus departs at 6 PM, the area transforms into a world solely dedicated to hot springs. While the inns operate until late at night, most dining options close by evening. 【Recommended Itinerary】 Day 1: Spend the morning sightseeing in Yamagata City or nearby areas. Arrive at Ginzan Onsen around 3:00 PM and check into your inn. Enjoy a relaxing bath and a delicious meal. As dusk approaches, the area lights up, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere. Day 2: Check out (10:00–11:00 AM). Explore day-use hot springs or unwind at a foot bath. Indulge in a variety of street food options! 【Recommended Spots】 1. Notoya Ryokan A historic inn with a large signboard. Cross the nostalgic red bridge to reach it. The exterior alone is worth admiring! 2. Shirogane-yu The only public bathhouse in the area. For just 500 yen, you can enjoy a natural hot spring. Be cautious, as the water is quite hot! 3. Shirogane Falls and Silver Mine Cave Trail A walking trail that takes less than an hour to complete. Experience the mysterious "Summerless Wind" that keeps the area cool even in midsummer, and explore caves reminiscent of the bustling Taisho era. Don’t forget to snap a photo in front of Shirogane Falls! 🤳 【Recommended Food】 1. Nogawa Tofuya Savor exquisite tofu while soaking your feet in a foot bath by the river. The piping hot fried tofu is a must-try! Be sure to arrive early, as it often sells out. 2. Sake Chabo Kurie A hidden café located at the back of a souvenir shop. It offers a stylish menu and a serene spot to enjoy the view from the highest point in the village. 3. Izu no Hana This spot offers a variety of dishes, from soba noodles to shaved ice. Perfect for a leisurely break. ⏳ 【Recommended Hotels】 The area is home to many historic inns, all of which feature hot springs. You can’t go wrong with any choice! ✨ 【Instagram-Worthy Spots】 1. From the middle of the bridge… Capture the iconic Taisho-era romantic scenery! Watch the clouds for a perfect shot. 2. Kosekiya Ryokan Another renowned historic inn! Don’t miss the intricate "Kote-e" plaster art depicting seasonal scenes and the famous safflower merchants of Yamagata. 【Additional Tips】 - The area is hilly with narrow paths. While strollers and wheelchairs can pass, cars must be parked before entering the hot spring area. - While there are cobblestone paths, the trail beyond the waterfall is dirt. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.