Okura
Okura (大蔵村 Ōkura-mura), sometimes written Ohkura, is a village in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan designated as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages in Japan". It's most known for Hijiori Onsen and Hijiori kokeshi.
Understand
[edit]Get in
[edit]Get around
[edit]See
[edit]- Jizokura (地蔵倉 Jizō-kura). A jizo shrine built into the side of a mountain. It is said that the monk who discovered Hijiori Onsen lived here. When you visit, you will likely find 5 yen coins hanging from the rocks. This is due to a legend that if you can thread paper through any of the holes in the rocks that your wish will come true.
- Shikamura Rice Terraces (四ヶ村の棚田). It's listed as one of Japan's Top 100 Rice Terraces. The views of the rice terraces with the surrounding mountains is a popular photo spot.
Do
[edit]- Hijiori Morning Market (肘折朝市). Apr 20-Dec 10 06:00-07:30. A daily market where locals sell vegetables.
Hijiori Onsen
[edit]A 1200 year old onsen town tucked away in the mountains. Its waters are carbonated springs with some chloride springs at certain locations. Here are places where daytrippers can enjoy the onsen. For ryokan and hot spring accommodations, see Sleep section.
- Caldera Onsenkan (カルデラ温泉館).
Buy
[edit]- Suzuki Kokeshi Shop (鈴木こけし工房). 08:00-18:00. A shop where Hijiori kokeshi are made and can also be purchased directly from their maker.
Eat
[edit]Drink
[edit]Sleep
[edit]- Maruya Ryokan (丸屋旅館). A nostalgic hot spring ryokan built with Kanayama cedar, cypress, and zelkova wood. Meals are made with seasonal vegetables harvested locally.
- Motokawarayu (元河原湯源泉). A ryokan in Hijiori Onsen. Meals change with the season to feature seasonal foods such as chestnuts and mushrooms in the autumn. There is a free shuttle service from Shinjo Station for staying guests.