Kaminoyama is a graceful hot spring town at the foot of Mt. Zao with a 550-year history — legend holds it was discovered in 1458 by a sick crane bathing in a warm spring. The white-walled castle keep, rebuilt in 1982 on its Sengoku-era foundations, overlooks the town, while seven public bath houses (kyu-do-yu) let visitors hop between springs on a single pass, and casual foot baths dot the streets.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Kaminoyama, Yamagata |
| Hours | Castle ~9:00–17:00; baths vary |
| Admission | Castle ~¥400; day bath ~¥200 |
| Time needed | 2–3 hours |
| Best time | Late April (cherry blossoms); year-round onsen |
What to See
- The rebuilt white-walled Kaminoyama Castle keep.
- Seven public bath houses (kyu-do-yu) on one pass.
- Casual ashiyu foot baths around the town centre.
- Cherry blossoms around the castle in late April.
Combine Your Visit
- Continue up to Zao Onsen and the crater.
- Try the Tendo shogi craft nearby.
- Taste Yamagata beef in town.
Getting There
- By train: JR to Kaminoyama-Onsen Station.
- On foot: the town centre, castle and baths are close together.
Tips
The kyu-do-yu bath-hopping pass is a great way to sample several springs cheaply in one visit. Combine with the castle and a stroll for a relaxed half-day.
