Perfect for Autumn! A 2-Day, 1-Night Trip to Yamagata

Wrapped in crisp air and vibrant autumn foliage, Yamagata’s fall season is a special time filled with the richness of nature and the pleasures of local cuisine. Located in northern Japan, Yamagata is known for its scenic mountains, relaxing hot springs, and delicious local food—a perfect destination to experience authentic Japanese autumn.

A two-day, one-night weekend trip offers the best of everything: admiring the colorful leaves of Mount Zao, tasting local specialties while strolling through town, and finding unique Yamagata souvenirs. A scenic drive through the fiery autumn hills or savoring the region’s signature dishes will surely leave lasting memories. This autumn, plan a short getaway to Yamagata and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and flavors of Japan. Here are three recommended spots for your 2-day, 1-night trip.

Lunch with a View of Autumn Leaves: Zao Sarukura Rest House

The Zao Echo Line is a scenic mountain road that crosses the Zao mountain range, connecting Miyagi and Yamagata prefectures in northern Japan. Along this route lies the popular Zao Sarukura Rest House, well-known for its delicious jingisukan (grilled lamb barbecue). Conveniently located for a stop during your drive, it offers a breathtaking view of the mountains painted in shades of red and gold during autumn.

Here, you can enjoy dishes like jingisukan or soba noodles while breathing in the crisp mountain air and taking in the vast natural scenery. Nearby, there’s also a fishing pond where you can catch and eat your own fish, as well as a sweets shop called “miche.” On sunny autumn days, the outdoor terrace is the perfect place to relax and admire the colorful foliage.

Zao’s landscape changes beautifully with each season, but autumn—with its vivid colors and refreshing atmosphere—makes it one of the highlights of any trip to Yamagata.

Hours	8:30 AM – 5:30 PM Closed days vary by month. Please check the official website for details.
Address	2843-1 Zao, Kaminoyama-shi, Yamagata, Japan
Access	・Yamagata Station West Exit Washington Hotel: walk about 2 min to the Yamagata Station Yamakō Bus Terminal. Take the Yamakō Bus bound for “Zao Onsen” and get off at the final stop, “Zao Onsen.” Then take a taxi for about 15 min to reach the Zao Sarukura Rest House.
URL	http://www.zao-sarukura.co.jp/index.html

Admire the Beautiful Crater Lake: Take the Zao-Katta Lift to “Okama”

Located on the border between Yamagata and Miyagi prefectures, Okama Crater Lake is the symbol of Zao and one of its most breathtaking sights. Surrounded by the three peaks of Mount Kattadake, Mount Kumanodake, and Mount Goshikidake, the round caldera lake gets its name “Okama” (meaning “kettle” in Japanese) from its bowl-like shape.

At an altitude of about 1,700 meters, the lake glows with an enchanting emerald-green hue. Riding the Zao-Katta Lift offers a spectacular view of the autumn-colored mountains below, making you feel as if you’re floating in the sky. In fall, the clear air allows for a panoramic view of the distant mountain ranges—an unforgettable sight that captivates all who visit.

After getting off the lift, it’s just a short walk to the Okama Observatory, where you can easily enjoy a leisurely stroll and take in the stunning landscape. With its dynamic scenery shaped by nature and the ever-changing colors of the lake throughout the seasons, Okama continues to enchant visitors year after year.

Hours	Zao High Line (Toll Road): 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM It takes about 3 min on foot from the parking lot at the end of the road to the Okama Observatory.
Address	Inside Zao Quasi-National Park, Miyagi, Japan
Access	・Yamagata Station West Exit Washington Hotel: walk about 2 min to the Yamagata Station Yamakō Bus Terminal. Take the Yamakō Bus bound for “Zao Onsen” and get off at the final stop, “Zao Onsen.” Then take a taxi or drive along the Zao Echo Line for about 30 min to reach the Zao-Katta Lift. Ride the lift to the summit station and you’ll arrive at “Okama.”
URL	https://www.zao-machi.com/sightseeing_spot/1.html

Shop for Yamagata’s Local Specialties at “Gutto Yamagata”

End your trip with a visit to “Gutto Yamagata,” the largest local specialty shop in the prefecture. This spacious tourism and product center offers around 2,000 varieties of Yamagata’s finest goods—from famous Yonezawa beef and tama konnyaku (ball-shaped konjac) to ready-to-eat imoni (taro and meat stew), local sake, and wine. It’s the perfect spot to find souvenirs that capture the flavor of Yamagata.

Inside, you’ll also find a food court where you can easily enjoy regional favorites like Yamagata ramen and soft-serve ice cream. The wide shopping area is a delight to explore, letting you relax and savor the memories of your trip. Conveniently located for a rest stop during your drive, “Gutto Yamagata” is a popular destination packed with the best of what Yamagata has to offer.

Hours	Food Court: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last order at 5:00 PM) Closed: New Year’s Day (also closed on New Year’s Eve and for maintenance) Business hours and days may change without notice. Please check the latest updates or official social media for details.
Address	68 Omote Zao, Yamagata-shi, Yamagata, Japan
Access	・Yamagata Station West Exit Washington Hotel: walk about 2 min to Yamagata Station. Take the JR Ōu Main Line and get off at “Urushiyama Station.” Walk about 15 min to reach “Gutto Yamagata,” one of the largest local specialty shops in the prefecture. As train service is limited, taking a car or taxi from Yamagata Station (about 10 min) is more convenient.
URL	https://www.yamagata-bussan.co.jp/