Stroll Through Taisho-Era Wooden Multi-Story Inns and Gas-Lit Hot Spring Streets
About this spot
Nestled in the mountains of Obanazawa City, Yamagata Prefecture, this hot spring town features wooden multi-story inns built from the Taisho period through the early Showa era lining both banks of the Ginzan River. Colorful decorative trowel-work murals adorning the exterior walls, cobblestone paths, and gas lamps along the streets—every view embodies the Taisho-era aesthetic. The town gained nationwide recognition as the setting for the NHK morning drama series "Oshin" and has since become one of Tohoku's premier hot spring destinations, attracting visitors from Japan and around the world. The compact town layout makes it easy to explore by crossing the small bridges over the river and comparing the inn architecture on both banks. The town takes on distinctly different moods during the day and at dusk, making you want to walk it twice.
Tips
Accessible by local bus in approximately 40 minutes from JR Oishida Station. By car, use the parking lot at the entrance to the hot spring town (vehicle traffic is prohibited within the town itself). Wear comfortable walking shoes as there are many cobblestone paths and slopes. For a day visit, arriving in the morning allows you to photograph the streets before crowds arrive.
Best time to visit
Approximately 1 hour. It's recommended to experience the town twice—once in the quiet morning for photos and again at dusk when the gas lamps illuminate.
Access & map
〒999-4333 Yamagata Prefecture, Obanazawa City, Ginzan Shinbata, Ginzan Onsen
Model course featuring this spot
Ginzan Onsen (銀山温泉): Strolling Through Taisho-Era Charm and the Silver Waterfall
Yamagata
Explore features & model courses
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