Yonezawa Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Located in the Yamagata region of Japan, Yonezawa is a charming city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This hidden gem is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, but it has plenty to offer for those who venture off the beaten path.

Yonezawa's rich history dates back centuries, and visitors can explore its fascinating past through its well-preserved landmarks and museums. One such highlight is the Uesugi Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the Uesugi clan, a powerful samurai family. The shrine's beautiful architecture and serene surroundings make it a perfect place for contemplation and reflection.

For history enthusiasts, the Yonezawa Castle Ruins are a must-visit. Although the original castle was destroyed, the ruins offer a glimpse into the city's feudal past. Walking along the stone walls and imagining the grandeur of the castle transports visitors back in time.

Nature lovers will be delighted by the breathtaking landscapes that surround Yonezawa. The city is nestled in the foothills of the scenic Dewa Mountains, offering ample opportunities for hiking, trekking, and nature walks. One of the most iconic natural attractions in the area is the picturesque Yudonosan Shrine, located on the slopes of Mount Yudono. The shrine is surrounded by lush forests and is a popular destination for pilgrims seeking spiritual enlightenment.

No visit to Yonezawa is complete without indulging in its local cuisine. The city is renowned for its delicious Yonezawa beef, a premium wagyu beef known for its tenderness and rich flavor. Food enthusiasts can savor this culinary delight at traditional Japanese restaurants or try their hand at grilling their own Yonezawa beef at one of the city's yakiniku establishments.

In addition to its historical and natural attractions, Yonezawa also hosts vibrant festivals throughout the year, showcasing the city's lively culture. The Uesugi Festival, held in spring, is a grand celebration of Yonezawa's samurai heritage, featuring parades, traditional performances, and martial arts demonstrations.

Local name: 米沢市 Population: 82 thous. (2019)Area: 211.78 mi²Elevation: 817 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 37°54'36"N, 140°6'40"E

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YamagataJapan

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Yonezawa Top Attractions

Yonezawa Attractions - What to See and Explore

Yonezawa offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Yonezawa City Uesugi Museum, Yonezawa Uesugi clan cemetery, Yonezawa Castle, Ichinosaka ruins. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Specialty museum • Museum
Yonezawa City Uesugi Museum
Yonezawa City Uesugi Museum opened in the former grounds of Yonezawa Castle in Yonezawa, Yamagata Prefecture, Japan, in 2001. The collection of some 18,800 objects includes the National Treasures Scenes In and Around the Capital, by Kanō Eitoku, and Uesugi Family Documents.
Temple • Buddhist architecture
Yonezawa Uesugi clan cemetery
The Yonezawa Domain Uesugi clan cemetery is located in the city of Yonezawa, Yamagata. The cemetery contains the graves of the successive daimyō of Yonezawa Domain over a 390-year period, each housed in its own memorial wooden chapel. The cemetery was designated a National Historic Site in 1984.
Forts and castles
Yonezawa Castle
Yonezawa Castle is a flatland-style Japanese castle located in the center of the city of Yonezawa, southern Yamagata Prefecture, Japan. Throughout the Edo period, Yonezawa Castle was home to the Uesugi clan, daimyō of Yonezawa Domain.

Day trips

Yonezawa – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Yonezawa, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Yama-dera (Yamagata), Fukushima Race Course (Fukushima), Abukuma-do.

33 milesNE
Temple, Buddhist architecture
Yama-dera, Yamagata
Perched on the mountainside in the scenic city of Yamagata, Japan, lies the serene and historic site of Yama-dera, a Buddhist temple complex that has inspired pilgrims, poets, and travelers for over a millennium. Known formally as Risshaku-ji, this temple, whose name...
23 milesSE
Horse track, Gambling, Sport venue
Fukushima Race Course, Fukushima
Fukushima Race Course is a notable destination for horse racing enthusiasts in the city of Fukushima, Japan. This racecourse offers a blend of excitement and tradition, providing a unique experience for visitors interested in the sport of kings.
50 milesSE
Nature, Natural attraction, Cave
Abukuma-do
Nestled in the verdant hills of Fukushima Prefecture, Abukuma-do is a spectacular subterranean wonder that has captivated the imaginations of visitors to Japan. This expansive limestone cave, formed over 80 million years, presents a magical realm beneath the earth...
18 milesS
Nature, Natural attraction, Lake
Goshiki-numa, Bandai-Asahi National Park
Goshiki-numa, a hidden gem nestled within the lush landscapes of the Bandai-Asahi National Park in Japan, is a series of five volcanic lakes known for their stunning and diverse colors. Literally translating to "Five Colored Ponds," these lakes captivate visitors with...
31 milesS
Recreated 14th-century castle and museum
Aizuwakamatsu Castle, Aizuwakamatsu
Aizuwakamatsu Castle, known locally as Tsuruga Castle, stands as a proud testament to Japan's feudal past in the city of Aizuwakamatsu. This historical fortress, encircled by deep moats and towering stone walls, was constructed in the late 14th century and has since...

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Best Time To Visit Yonezawa

Learn when is the best time to travel to Yonezawa weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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May is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Many people also choose to visit in June, July and August.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in February, March, April and May. Most of it rains in July, August and September.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Yonezawa?

The top attractions to visit in Yonezawa are:

What is the best time to visit Yonezawa?

May is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Many people also choose to visit in June, July and August. The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.