【Ginzan Onsen・Notoya Ryokan】A Stroll Through Taisho Romanticism

Visiting Ginzan Onsen in Yamagata Prefecture feels like stepping into an old photograph📖. The wooden inns lining both sides of the street look especially elegant under a blanket of snow, and the most captivating among them is the century-old Notoya Ryokan✨.

Even though I didn’t stay overnight, I made sure to arrive before dusk just to witness the legendary dreamlike scenery. The entire building is constructed along the Ginzan River, with a red bridge spanning across it, as if inviting travelers into a time tunnel.🏯 The contrast between the red bridge and the white snow, combined with the warm yellow lights glowing from the building, creates a scene that looks straight out of a Japanese drama📷.

The exterior of Notoya Ryokan retains the elegant wooden architecture of the Taisho era, with intricately carved balconies and lattice windows that transport you back a hundred years in an instant. The thick snow on the roof adds to the charm, making it feel like a real-life setting from the anime "Spirited Away"❄️. You can stand by the red bridge to quietly admire the view or take a leisurely stroll down the onsen street, soaking in the romance of falling snowflakes mingling with the steam from the hot springs.

The entire street exudes a tranquil atmosphere, free from noisy tour groups, with only leisurely pedestrians, onsen steam, and the serene sound of footsteps on the snow🌨️. Especially at sunset, when the lights come on, the nostalgic "old Japan" ambiance envelops you, making your heart flutter❤️.

Although I couldn’t stay at Notoya this time, just standing outside to admire and take photos was enough to feel the warmth and nostalgia. Next time, I’ll definitely stay overnight to experience the quiet nights and snowy mornings of Ginzan🌙☃️.

📍Ginzan Onsen・Notoya Ryokan
🚃Travel Tip: Take a bus from JR Oishida Station to Ginzan Onsen Station
📸Photography Tip: The best time is right before the lights come on at dusk—don’t forget your tripod!

Post by 行旅拾光 | Jul 10, 2025