A Quiet Winter Journey in Yamagata | Ginzan Onsen, Yamadera & Zao Snow Monsters

A quiet solo journey through winter Yamagata.
In this video, I visit three iconic winter destinations: Yamadera (Risshaku-ji Temple), Ginzan Onsen, and the Zao Snow Monsters.
The journey begins at Yamadera, a historic temple associated with the poet Matsuo Basho. After climbing 1,015 stone steps, I enjoy the view from the cliffside Godaido Hall.
Next is Ginzan Onsen, a nostalgic hot spring town lined with wooden ryokan from the Taisho and early Showa eras. I stay at Ginzan-so, enjoying a private onsen room.
The journey ends at Zao, where I ride the ropeway to see the famous Snow Monsters.
Join me in discovering the quiet beauty of winter in Yamagata.
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⏱️ Video Timeline
00:00 Opening
01:21 Journey Begins: Arrival at Sendai Airport
02:53 Yamadera (Risshaku-ji Temple)
05:41 Yamadera Local Food: Imoni Set Meal at Izumiya
08:12 Ginzan Onsen: Stay at Ginzanso (Room with Semi-Open-Air Bath)
09:27 Ginzanso Dinner: Traditional Kaiseki Cuisine
11:26 Ginzan Onsen Night View & Snowy Scenery
Day 2
14:13 Ginzan Onsen: Morning Snow Scenery
15:05 Ginzanso Breakfast
17:11 Zao Snow Monsters & Zao Ropeway

🌎 Locations (Google Maps)
📍 Yamadera
https://maps.app.goo.gl/dAbCYgtSfN668...
📍 Izumiya (Restaurant)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Mk322i9f3bqQQ...
📍 Ginzan Onsen
https://maps.app.goo.gl/TsP2XyhKLetxt...
📍 Ginzanso
https://maps.app.goo.gl/zmFNonUnfE1Ab...
📍 Zao Ropeway
https://maps.app.goo.gl/JJV3HU6FZQAkk...