One-day trip to Tohoku Japan｜One-day tour to Shijiyama Western Temple & Ginzan Hot Spring Night Viewing｜Departure from Sendai
- The definition of a famous temple in Miyagi Prefecture in the Northeast is Shanxi West Temple. Make a good relationship and stay safe.
- If you visit Yamagata area at night, you must visit the dreamy Ginzan Hot Spring, a popular attraction.
- Special buses eliminate transportation problems, and Chinese-speaking tour guides lead the tour, so you can rest assured.
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Minimum participant requirement | 8 travelers |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Temples & shrines |
| Transport | Bus tour |
Product Info
The content of this product is provided by machine translation and may not reflect the actual information, please take this into consideration before booking.
－Itinerary information－
・Gathering time: 12:20
・Departure time: 12:30
・Meeting location: JR Sendai Station East Exit Sightseeing Bus Stop
・Tour length: approximately 7.5 hours
・Return time and information: 20:00 JR Sendai Station East Exit
-Introduction to attractions-
- Definition of Shanxi Temple
A famous temple with a history of 800 years. As a temple with deep connections to the Taira family, which was once prominent in Japanese history, it is now a sacred place that protects local people and has many cultural properties. Western Temple is located on the main thoroughfare of Miyagi Yamagata, more than 30 kilometers away from Sendai City, and it takes about 50 minutes to drive from Sendai Station. It is 5 kilometers away from Okura Reservoir and is known as the hometown of Heike refugees. Since ancient times, many believers have come to worship the Tathagata and realize their once-in-a-lifetime wishes. It is said that it is particularly beneficial to a good marriage and safe childbirth, and people are used to making wishes when receiving prayers. In addition, the Emperor's Tomb, where the relics of Emperor Ankui are buried, is said to be a famous place for marriage. The temple grounds include the Sanmon Gate, bell tower, mausoleum, water purification room, and guardian shrine, which are registered as tangible cultural properties. Other highlights not to be missed include the five-story pagoda and main shrine made entirely of Aomori cypress wood. About 1 million tourists come to visit every year, and tourist facilities such as Monzen Town are very developed. The solemn five-story pagoda and mountain gate; the market in front of the temple, with many famous and old shops, still show the old style. The famous [Triangular Fried Tofu] is even famous far and wide. It is a must-try specialty when you visit here.
- Yinshan Hot Spring
A hot spring town located in the mountainous area of Yamagata Prefecture in the Tohoku region of Japan. This small street surrounded by mountains prospered as a silver mining site in the 17th century, hence the name Ginzan Hot Spring. Ginzan Hot Spring retains the wooden bungalows from the Taisho to the early Showa era, the retro streetscape and the snowy winter scenery, full of romantic atmosphere. Ginzan Hot Spring is also the stage of the Japanese TV series "Oshin" that is popular all over the world. It is also said that the hot spring bath house in the Japanese animation "The Hidden Girl" was inspired by this place. The retro romantic atmosphere of numerous hot spring hotels and the beautiful snow scenery attract travelers from all over the place every year.
The majestic five-story pagoda
Yumiao Zhenneng Hall
Western temple in autumn colors
Fried tofu triangle
Lianli beech wood
Five-story pagoda in autumn colors
mountain gate
Romantic Silver Mountain Hot Spring
* Due to the implementation of a new shuttle bus fare system in the Ginzan Onsen Management Area starting December 20, 2026 (a new rule with different fares for different time periods), shuttle buses will be available. Due to road closures and time-based fare restrictions for entering Ginzan Onsen Onsen, a transfer at the Taisho Romantic Hall is required. Please refer to the local shuttle bus company's fare schedule (see image below). Guests are requested to purchase their tickets on-site with the assistance of their tour guide.
Purchase Notice
【Travel Conditions】
Travel origin and destination: Miyagi Prefecture and Yamagata Prefecture
Travel days: Round trip
Transportation: Chartered bus
Bus company name: Torotron Bus Co., Ltd. or Togatta Bus Co., Ltd.
Meals included: Breakfast 0 times, Lunch 0 times, Dinner 0 times
Accommodation facilities: None
Minimum group size: 8 people
Team leader: 0
Tour guide: 1
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating company name: (Yes) Torotron Technologies
Address: 980-0021 Miyagi Prefecture Sendai City Aoba District Chuo 2-8-11 Premium Green Hills 3F M-LABEL ROOM027
License Number: Yamagata Prefecture Governor's Travel Business Registration No. 2-200
Travel Association Name: Japan Travel Agents Association Full Member
Reminders
A minimum of 8 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date
In case of delays caused by traffic, weather, or other force majeure factors resulting in the cancellation of some itinerary attractions, please contact customer service. We will arrange a partial refund for you
Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: High blood pressure, Heart disease, Acrophobia, Asthma, Epilepsy, Pregnant women
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
This itinerary is a "carpooling itinerary" and you will be traveling in a shared car with other passengers. Please be informed.
Infants under 6 years old can participate for free, but do not occupy a seat. Please indicate free entry for infants and young children when placing your reservation. An adult can only bring one infant who does not occupy a seat. If your accompanying infants and young children need to occupy a seat, please place an order as an adult. Please be informed.
Vehicles will be arranged according to the number of people and luggage, and cannot be designated. Please be informed.
The ground in Yinshan Hot Spring is often slippery after snowfall in winter. Please wear anti-slip shoes or boots with anti-slip function to participate in the tour.
This product only provides Chinese tour guide service; if necessary, please bring your own translation machine.
The car type is arranged according to the number of people. If you have luggage to carry with you, please indicate it when placing an order.
This itinerary does not include dinner, so it is recommended to bring light food with you.
Due to road closures and time-slot-based fares to Ginzan Onsen Onsen, a shuttle bus transfer is required at the Taisho Romantic Hall. Please purchase your tickets on-site with the assistance of your tour guide. Please refer to the local shuttle bus company's fare schedule in the product description.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 22 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- For cancellations made 15 to 21 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 20% will apply
- For cancellations made 8 to 14 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 30% will apply
- For cancellations made 4 to 7 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 50% will apply
- For cancellations made 1 to 3 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 80% will apply
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–0 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.
FAQ
Ginzan Onsen offers distinct charm throughout the year. Winter, from December to March, is highly popular for its snowy, nostalgic scenery, reminiscent of a Ghibli film. Autumn, in late October to November, provides stunning fall foliage, while spring, from April to May, brings fresh greenery. Evenings in any season are particularly magical, with the gas lamps illuminating the traditional streets, creating a captivating atmosphere.
Most visitors find that 2 to 3 hours are sufficient to explore Ginzan Onsen's main street, browse the unique shops, take photographs, and perhaps enjoy a relaxing foot bath. If you plan to dine at one of the local eateries or visit a public bath, allowing 3 to 4 hours would provide a more comfortable and unhurried experience. This duration allows ample time to soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
Ginzan Onsen is renowned for its enchanting Taisho-era architecture and picturesque river setting, making it a truly unique destination. The town transforms into a fairy-tale scene, especially in winter when snow blankets the traditional wooden ryokan. It offers a nostalgic escape, exceptional photo opportunities, and a chance to immerse yourself in authentic Japanese hot spring culture within a beautifully preserved historical environment, providing a distinctive day trip.
Before entering any hot spring at Ginzan Onsen, it is customary and essential to thoroughly wash your body at the designated showering area. Guests should enter the onsen completely naked, as swimsuits and underwear are generally not permitted. Tie up long hair to keep it out of the water. Avoid loud conversations to maintain the peaceful atmosphere, and refrain from bringing cameras or phones into the bathing area. These practices ensure a respectful experience for everyone.
Many traditional Japanese hot springs, including some establishments in the Ginzan Onsen area, historically have strict policies against visible tattoos. While attitudes are gradually changing and some places might permit small tattoos if they can be covered with a bandage, it is generally advisable to inquire directly with individual ryokan or public baths about their specific policies before visiting. Private onsen rooms, if available, can be an alternative.
To reach Ginzan Onsen from Sendai, a convenient option is to take the JR Yamagata Shinkansen to Oishida Station. From Oishida Station, you can typically find local buses or pre-booked ryokan shuttle buses that provide direct access to Ginzan Onsen itself. The overall journey usually involves a scenic train ride of approximately one hour, followed by a bus ride lasting about 40 minutes, offering pleasant views along the way.
At Shijiyama Western Temple (Risshakuji Temple), visitors can expect a deeply spiritual and remarkably scenic journey. The temple is famously set into a mountainside, requiring a climb of over a thousand stone steps to reach its main halls and lookout points. Along the ascent, you will discover numerous smaller temples, fascinating rock formations, and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valley, offering a peaceful and introspective experience amidst nature.
Yes, this specific tour is designed to ensure a smooth and enriching experience by providing a dedicated Chinese-speaking tour guide. The guide will offer insightful commentary, handle logistics, and provide assistance throughout the entire day, covering both the historic Shijiyama Western Temple and the picturesque Ginzan Onsen. This ensures ease of navigation and a deeper cultural understanding for Chinese-speaking participants.
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