Located in Yamagata Prefecture, Ginzan Onsen is a retro hot spring resort town that retains the atmosphere of the good old days, and is loved by many travelers and photography enthusiasts. The historic townscape, which once prospered from silver mining, and the rich natural surroundings of the hot spring resort are attractive. In this article, we will introduce in detail the history and atmosphere of Ginzan Onsen, the benefits of the hot springs, gourmet food, souvenirs, and nearby tourist attractions. We would like to tell you all about the charms of Ginzan Onsen.
History and origin of Ginzan Onsen
The name Ginzan Onsen derives from the silver mining that once took place in the area. During the Edo period (1603-1868), silver mining flourished, and the hot spring resort developed against the backdrop of the prosperous silver mining industry. Historic buildings and cobblestone streets are reminders of those days. The hot spring resort is still alive with the history and traditions of the period, with records of frequent visits by people involved in the mining industry and travelers.
Retro cityscape and architectural beauty
The hot spring resort town of Ginzan Onsen is lined with old wooden inns and traditional Japanese-style architecture, giving visitors a nostalgic feeling as if they have stepped back in time to the early Showa period. Stone-paved pathways, old-fashioned footbaths, and an emotional shopping street provide a warm welcome to visitors. Especially at night, the retro gas lamps create a magical atmosphere, making it the perfect place for a romantic stroll, and it is also popular as a social networking site, becoming a popular spot for tourists to take souvenir photos.
Harmony with nature and the four seasons
Ginzan Onsen is blessed with a rich natural environment surrounded by mountains and clear streams.
- winter：The hot spring resort town covered with snow is just like a picture book. The snow-covered old houses and the illuminated hot spring resort are a fantastic and heartwarming sight.
- Spring & Autumn：The entire hot spring resort is in harmony with the beautiful nature during the season of fresh greenery and autumn leaves, creating a spectacular view that soothes the heart just by walking around.
- summer：The hot spring resort is located in a mountainous area with cool breezes, and offers a quiet and serene experience.
The changing seasonal atmosphere is a unique attraction of Ginzan Onsen, and no matter how many times you visit, you will always find something new to discover.
Not only guests, but also many tourists visit to see this seasonal atmosphere. Recently, the number of foreign tourists has increased, and to our surprise, entrance restrictions have been put in place to limit the number of visitors to the hot spring resort.
Currently, to get to the hot spring resort, one must take a special bus from the Taisho-Roman Kan (Taisho-Roman Museum) in front of it and return. The price was 1,000 yen per person for the round trip.
Onsen Benefits and Healing Experiences
The hot water of Ginzan Onsen is mildly alkaline and gentle on the skin, and is said to be effective in improving neuralgia, sensitivity to cold, and rheumatism. Many inns have open-air baths or private baths where visitors can relax and soak in the hot springs while enjoying the natural scenery. There are also public bathhouses in the hot spring resort area, where visitors can take a day trip.
There is also a free footbath to entertain all visitors.
Sightseeing spots around the hot spring resort
The attraction of Ginzan Onsen is not only the hot springs themselves. A stroll through the hot spring resort area is dotted with sights where you can feel the history and nature of the area.
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Waterfalls visible from the hot spring resort
Behind the old houses and cobblestone pathways of the hot spring resort, there is a waterfall, and the hot spring resort stands along the river that flows from the waterfall to the hot spring resort. This waterfall, visible and hidden from the hot spring resort, has become one of the specialties of Ginzan Onsen. -
Ruins of a walkable silver mine
he ruins of a former mining site and the entrance to a mine shaft remain within walking distance from the hot spring resort, reminding visitors of the history of silver mining, which is the origin of the name “Ginzan Onsen. The interpretive panels are well maintained, and visitors can learn about the harsh atmosphere of the mining site and the crystallization of technology at that time, making this a must-see spot for history buffs.
Gourmet food and popular souvenirs
Ginzan Onsen offers a wide variety of gourmet foods and souvenirs that you should definitely enjoy when you visit.
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Onsen manjuu and Japanese sweets
Onsen manju, sold at long-established Japanese confectionery stores, is characterized by its moist skin and elegant sweetness, and is very popular as a souvenir of a trip or as a gift. Since they are sold in pieces, you can easily buy and eat them. -
Retro cafes and eateries
At the café and atmospheric dining room, which was renovated from an old private house, you can enjoy dishes that make the most of local seasonal ingredients, handmade sweets, and special coffee. It is the perfect place to spend a relaxing moment after a soothing soak in the hot springs. -
Local Sake and Craft Beer
Yamagata Prefecture's unique local sake goes perfectly with the atmosphere of the hot spring resort. The locally brewed sake available at onsen hotels and the craft beer available only in onsen towns are very popular as souvenirs. -
Traditional Crafts and Sundries
In the hot spring resort area of Ginzan Onsen, many Japanese goods, accessories, and original goods handmade by local craftsmen are available for sale. Items with nostalgic designs and motifs of hot spring resort symbols are sure to be appreciated as souvenirs.
Access and stay information and recommended plans
Although Ginzan Onsen is a bit far from major cities in Yamagata Prefecture, its quiet and serene atmosphere is an attractive feature of the area. If you use public transportation, there is a direct bus service from Yamagata Station, or you can also rent a car. The hot spring resort itself is compact and can be fully explored on foot. In addition, each ryokan boasts of its interior design that makes the most of historical buildings and hospitality, and you are sure to have a fulfilling time combining hot spring baths, gourmet food, and walking around during your stay!
summary
Ginzan Onsen is truly a “timeless healing hot spring resort” that combines the historical background of silver mining, a retro hot spring town, beautiful seasonal nature, and healthful hot springs. We hope you will enjoy a relaxing stroll while soaking in the hot springs and feeling the atmosphere of good old Japan.
And there seems to be a reason for the recent increase in foreign tourists.
We do not know if it is true or not, but it seems to be buzzing because it looks very similar to the atmosphere of Studio Ghibli's animated film “Spirited Away,” directed by Hayao Miyazaki.
Indeed, the entrance to the mine is very similar to the “tunnel” that Chihiro's family wandered into.
Many people want to visit this place at least once, but it can be enjoyed throughout the four seasons. It is a spot that should be visited in every season!
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