▲ Ginzan Onsen is located in Obanazawa, Yamagata Prefecture, named after the silver mine discovered over 500 years ago. Winters here bring abundant snowfall, transforming the century-old wooden houses along the hot spring street into a dreamlike scene of snow-covered tranquility, as if time stands still. The crisp waters of the Ginzan River flow steaming through the area, creating a serene atmosphere reminiscent of a hidden paradise. It is also celebrated as the real-life counterpart to the bathhouse from "Spirited Away."
▲ A millennium-old temple of the Tiantai Buddhist sect | Renowned for its association with Matsuo Bashō's "The Narrow Road to the Deep North." Ascend the steep 1015-step stone staircase symbolizing the path of spiritual practice, where at the summit awaits the suspended Godaido Hall, offering panoramic views of mountain valleys and cascading temple complexes—a Zen-like retreat in every season.
