There's a common misconception that Jiufen in Taiwan was a major inspiration for the fantasy film, Spirited Away, but in reality, it was the Notoya Ryokan in Ginzan Onsen. Anyone who's followed Chihiro's journey would recognise the main bridge leading to the ryokan's entrance as the one that links the real world to the spirit world.
Beyond the film references, Ginzan Onsen in Yamagata Prefecture holds the title of being one of Japan’s prettiest towns, and it’s also home to some of the best onsens in the country. You’ll feel transported in time, too, as the town's architecture and ryokans hark back to 1920s Japan.
Don't leave Ginzan Onsen without having tried their street food such as curry bread and soba soft serve. I personally recommend the Ginzan Onsen Tofu.
It’s said that the recipe for this famous tofu at Ginzan Onsen Tofu has been passed down since the town was first established. Not only is it freshly made every day, it’s also located right next to the free foot baths!
How to get there:
Nearest station to Ginzan Onsen is the JR Oishida Station.
There are buses departing from Oishida Station to Ginzan Onsen every 60 - 90 minutes. The bus ride takes about 40 minutes.
Article by TheSmartLocal.com
Address: Miyagi Prefecture, Sendai, Aoba Ward, Chuo, 4 Chome−10−11
Website: https://gurunavi.com/en/t274200/rst
Phone: not available
