2 Best Sights in Tohoku, Japan

Ginzan Onsen is known for its unique landscape and distinguished Taisho period (1912–26) architectural design. A flood once destroyed the village in the valley, but it sprung back up with 14 ryokan. A magnificent wooden four-story ryokan from there is depicted in Miyazaki's animated film Spirited Away. The Hanagasa dance shows take place Saturday evenings from May to October. From Yamagata, take a train to JR Oishida Station, then hop on the Hanagasa-Go bus bound for Ginzan Onsen (45 minutes).

If you're interested in pottery, go to this pottery village on the outskirts of Yamagata. It's a bit out of the way but definitely worth a visit if you are spending time in Yamagata. This small enclave of traditional buildings and farmhouses is a step back in time. About six pottery families each specialize in a particular style. You can take pottery lessons and have your handiwork fired, glazed, and, two to four weeks later, mailed back home. The potteries are generally open daily, but the actual hours can be erratic, so definitely check ahead with the tourist information office at JR Yamagata Station before heading out.