ABOUT
About this spot
Kaminoyama Onsen, a famous hot spring in Yamagata Prefecture, is a historic spa town that once prospered as the castle town of Kaminoyama Castle and as a post town on the Ushu Kaido road. Long counted among the "Three Pleasure Resorts of Ou," its soft, mildly alkaline waters are cherished as "skin-beautifying waters" and "waters for fertility." The town's greatest charm is the atmosphere of a "hot spring town you can explore on foot." Public baths and free foot baths are scattered around, and we recommend "soto-yu meguri," a bath-hopping stroll through the evocative streets lined with samurai residences. From the foot bath on the hill in particular, you can enjoy a magnificent panorama of the Zao mountain range. In recent years, gourmet spots have also flourished, including wineries serving locally produced wine and cafes where you can try the social-media-famous "Kaminoyama Choux." Its easy access, a single ride from Tokyo on the Yamagata Shinkansen, is another attraction. Reflect on history, be soothed by rich nature and famous waters, and enjoy a supremely relaxing time that suits everyone from adults to children.
Last updated March 27, 2026