Ginzan Onsen, a gem in the Tohoku region's Yamagata Prefecture, may be small in size, but it is immense in charm and cultural richness. This renowned onsen town is a picturesque showcase of enduring history, where buildings and ryokan accommodations from the 19th-century Taisho period have been meticulously preserved. These structures lend an authentically Japanese ambiance, setting Ginzan Onsen apart from other spa towns with its unique aura and scenic beauty. In this feature, we will delve into the heart of Ginzan Onsen, highlighting not just its scenic splendor but also the delightful snacks and distinctive souvenirs that make a visit here truly memorable.
- Ginzan Onsen: A Quaint Onsen Town with a Rich History
- City Attractions: A Walk Through History
- Delectable Snacks and Must-Try Treats
- Details
Ginzan Onsen: A Quaint Onsen Town with a Rich History
The town of Ginzan Onsen is not very large and is small enough to be explored on foot in just an hour. It boasts a stream and a waterfall cascading from the mountains. Its limited space for walking is a reminder of its past life as a silver mining town (銀山温泉), which has since been transformed into a scenic tourist haven. The town's unique layout, with original structures and narrow walkways resembling tunnels, offers an intimate connection with nature.
Accommodations in Ginzan Onsen are as unique as the town itself. The residences located alongside the picturesque canal stand out as the town's most photogenic spots. Due to the limited number of accommodations and their popularity, we highly recommend booking your stay well in advance.
City Attractions: A Walk Through History
Ginzan Onsen Town captivates visitors with its atmospheric blend of architectural styles from the late Taisho, Meiji, and Showa eras. Strolling through its streets is like stepping into a bygone era. The town's charm is further enhanced by grocery stores and numerous wooden buildings, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. This picturesque setting is complemented by the unique river that doubles as an onsen, adding a soothing natural element to the town's landscape.
A standout natural attraction is the Shirogane Waterfall in Shirogane Park, a stunning 22-meter high cascade. In winter, it presents a magical frozen spectacle, while in early spring, it transforms into a powerful display of nature's force as the ice begins to thaw and tumble down in large volumes.
Delectable Snacks and Must-Try Treats
Exploring an onsen town like Ginzan Onsen offers a delightful experience beyond the hot springs. Here, the pleasure is not just in the variety of onsen and their unique waters, but also in sampling the famous local desserts. A must-try is the Zunda Daifuku, a local twist on the traditional daifuku. Unlike the commonly known strawberry or red bean versions, the Zunda Daifuku features sweet soybeans, a specialty of Yamagata. This unique treat combines the delicate sweetness of zunda with the soft, chewy texture of mochi.
In Ginzan Onsen, the culinary delights extend beyond the well-loved zunda mochi. These snacks, a must-try for any visitor, often exceed expectations with their flavor.
Another exceptional treat is the Kujira-mochi, the oldest mochi dessert in Yamagata Prefecture. The name Kujira-mochi (久持良餅) intriguingly translates to "long-lasting rice cake." Especially noteworthy in fall are the Kujira-mochi and Sakura Daifuku, both seasonal delights that capture the essence of the season.
Another local specialty is the Dadacha stuffed bean pastry. Originating from Tsuruoka city in Yamagata Prefecture, Dadacha beans are renowned as the “king of edamame beans.” Their exceptional aroma sets them apart from the typical edamame served in izakaya. When these beans are transformed into a dessert, their unique flavor truly shines, offering a taste experience that is both novel and deeply satisfying.
A visit to Ginzan Onsen is incomplete without savoring the iconic manju snacks, a staple in many onsen towns. Here, you'll find a unique twist with Karinto Manju, a variation that stands apart from the usual steamed manju. These delightful treats are fried, offering a crispy exterior that gives way to a soft, fluffy interior, filled with a sweet red bean paste.
Karinto Manju's distinctive preparation method, frying instead of steaming, results in a delectable snack that is best enjoyed fresh and hot. We highly recommend that visitors try this local specialty, which is readily available at souvenir shops throughout the city.
When discussing the renowned products of Yamagata Prefecture, two items stand out: the Tsuyahime variety of rice and the famed sakuranbo, or cherries. Tsuyahime rice is celebrated across Japan for its exceptional quality, second only to the renowned Koshihikari variety. Its popularity as a souvenir is enhanced by its convenient packaging in small sizes.
Cherries are another emblematic produce of Yamagata Prefecture. Their prominence is creatively celebrated in local souvenirs, which often feature cherries in their design. From charming plushies cradling a cherry to various items named after this abundant fruit, these souvenirs are instantly recognizable as distinctively Yamagata.
Even popular characters like Jikawa are depicted holding a cherry. These cherry-themed souvenirs offer visitors a tangible reminder of the lush fruit orchards of Yamagata Prefecture.
In Ginzan Onsen, you'll find a unique selection of beckoning cats, or Maneki-neko, which are not only charming but also believed to attract wealth. These cats are distinguished by their unusually large hands, symbolizing their potent ability to bring good fortune. For those seeking a symbol of prosperity, these lucky cats are readily available for purchase in the city.
The region's rich agricultural bounty extends to a variety of intriguing alcoholic beverages, a testament to Yamagata Prefecture's renowned rice and fruit production. The local rice, known for its exceptional quality, forms the basis of exquisite sake, while the abundant fruit harvest inspires a range of delightful fruit liquors.
One notable example is the watermelon liqueur, beautifully packaged and embodying the flavor of Yamagata's famous watermelons. You'll also find a selection of peach, guava, and grape liqueurs, each offering a unique taste of the region's fruity abundance. A visit to the local souvenir shops in Ginzan Onsen is sure to yield a delightful discovery for every palate, making these beverages perfect take-home treasures.
In summary, Ginzan Onsen is a haven for both onsen lovers and those seeking culinary and souvenir delights. Its winter landscape is enchanting, offering warm onsens amidst snow-covered vistas and a fairy-tale ambiance at night, reminiscent of scenes from "Spirited Away." While night visits in winter require caution due to slippery roads, the experience is truly rewarding. From relaxing in baths to savoring local treats and finding unique souvenirs, Ginzan Onsen is a place of memorable experiences and discoveries.
Details
Access: From Tokyo, take the JR Yamagata Shinkansen to Oishida Station (3 hr, 20 min), then catch a bus to Ginzan Onsen (35 min). The train is covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
Official website: https://www.ginzanonsen.jp
Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QEjACcthBnAeyCar9
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