By TORU SAITO/ Staff Writer
October 25, 2025 at 15:50 JST
The “juhyo“ ice monsters of the Zao mountain range in Yamagata Prefecture (Minako Yoshimoto)
Here’s a hot travel tip for Japan in 2026: Head to Yamagata Prefecture in the northern reaches of Honshu, the main island.
National Geographic magazine on Oct. 21 named the prefecture in its list of “Best of the World 2026.”
Yamagata was the only location in Japan picked among the 25 destinations around the world.
The magazine cited Yamagata’s traditions dating back centuries as well as inspiring outdoor adventures away from urban sprawl.
Recognizing that overtourism is an issue, National Geographic noted that Yamagata is situated 320 kilometers from Tokyo, meaning the peace and quiet there seem like a different world.
Among unforgettable sites listed in Yamagata were the Zao ski resorts, the photogenic Ginzan hot springs resort area and other hot springs, and Risshakuji temple, popularly known as “Yamadera” mountain temple.
National Geographic also highly recommended hiking along the three sacred peaks of Dewa made up of Mount Haguro, Mount Gassan and Mount Yudono.
The Japan National Tourism Organization said an overseas travel agency heaped praise on an adventure program in Yamagata in September that combined culture with nature.
Yamagata was one of only three Asian destinations on the list, the others being Beijing and Manila.
Other sites included Hawaii’s Maui island, the Basque region in Spain and Rabat, Morocco.
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