Ginzan Onsen

Ginzan Onsen — Yamagata's most photogenic hot spring village — presents one of the most iconic winter images in Japan: gas-lit Taisho-era wooden inn facades reflected in the steaming Ginzan River as snow accumulates on carved eaves. The village, which gave its name to the setting of Spirited Away, offers a handful of exquisitely preserved ryokan with private riverside baths.

FFGR Japan coordinates winter excursions from Yamagata or Sendai, with helicopter access possible for the most private arrivals in deep winter months.