Iconic Kanayama landscape: white-walled storehouses lining a waterway where koi swim
About this spot
A water channel flowing through central Kanayama Town, captivating with white-walled storehouses forming a unified streetscape. Clear water hosts swimming koi, and a walk along the waterside imparts a sense of the town's living culture. Known as a producer of Kanayama-sugi (Japanese cedar), the town beautifully harmonizes wood and whitewashed walls. An ideal summer afternoon walk where the waterside air brings pleasant coolness.
Season & hours
Name: 金山まつり
Date & time: 8/14 (Fri)–8/16 (Sun) Time TBA
Venue: 最上郡金山町・金山町役場周辺
金山町役場周辺を会場に、8月14日から16日にかけて開かれる町を挙げての夏まつりです。初日の14日と2日目の15日には屋台が並び、夕方から夜にかけて多くの家族連れでにぎわいます。提灯の灯りに照らされた町なかを歩きながら、夜店をのぞいたり、地元の人たちと一緒にまつりの空気を味わったりできるのがこの祭りの魅力です。白壁の蔵と提灯の灯りが重なる夜景は、昼間に歩いた町並みとはまた違った表情を見せてくれます。
Tips
屋台は14日・15日限定なので、初日に訪れる今回のコースはちょうど良いタイミングです。会場周辺は夜間に混み合うため、車で訪れる場合は駐車場の位置を事前に確認しておくと安心です。虫よけ対策もあると快適に過ごせます。
Food stalls
Where: 金山町役場周辺(14・15日限定)
※Announced for 2026. Stall lineups change year to year. Please check the official site for the latest details.
Turn this into a day plan with stall time includedTips
About 15 minutes by car from central Shinjo. The waterside footpath is well-maintained, though small children should watch their footing. A highly photogenic spot perfect for family photos before the festival.
Best time to visit
Duration approximately 40 minutes. Afternoon sunlight sparkles beautifully on the water.
Access & map
〒999-5402 Yamagata Prefecture, Mogami District, Kanayama Town, Kanayama 327
Model course featuring this spot
2026 Kanayama Festival - Full Day Experience Course
Yamagata
Explore features & model courses
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