Tanya Zenjiro Sendai Ekimae-Honten | Review by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人

When I visited Yamagata in the summer, I saw Sato Nishiki, a premium variety known as the “king of cherries,” in person for the first time. I was very lucky to be able to buy some fresh ones to try. These delicate cherries have plump flesh, with a sweet and slightly tart flavor. Their rich, fruity aroma unfolds in your mouth, creating a wonderfully complex taste.

I heard that Higashine City in Yamagata is the birthplace of Sato Nishiki, which makes me want to find an opportunity to experience fruit picking there myself. If you happen to be traveling in Tohoku during the summer like I was, don’t miss the chance to try this luxurious seasonal treat.

Getting the chance to see Zao's iconic Okama Crater in person is definitely a journey that requires a bit of luck. Even when the sky is perfectly clear at the foot of the mountain, the weather on the way up can often change in an instant, with clouds and fog rolling in. I was very lucky to have good weather during my summer visit and immediately saw the dazzling blue-green crater lake, shining like a jewel, with patches of unmelted white snow dotting the slopes. It's hard to imagine the impact of nature's extraordinary power in creating such a unique and magnificent landscape without seeing it for yourself.

After arriving at Okama Crater, you can easily get closer for a view by following the gentle walking path. If you want a full view of the entire crater and the magnificent surrounding mountains, I definitely recommend climbing up to the shrine at the top, where the highest point offers an excellent panoramic view. Standing quietly and gazing at this emerald-green lake, formed by a volcanic eruption tens of millions of years ago, I was filled with emotion and awe. It's definitely a dreamlike spot you must visit when traveling in Tohoku.

While visiting Yamagata, I made a special point of adding Zao Fox Village, deep in the mountains, to my itinerary. Since I wasn't driving, joining a one-day bus tour was the easiest and most convenient option. When I visited the fox village hidden in the mountains in summer, the foxes were in the middle of shedding, so they looked a bit fluffy and unkempt, and the smell was also somewhat noticeable. However, this is also the season when adorable baby foxes are born. I was very lucky to have the chance to interact up close with the unbelievably cute fox cubs. They felt soft and fluffy when held, and were as warm as puppies. It was a rare experience.

Also, visitors need to be especially careful because foxes are easily startled. Be sure to move gently, don't run, and don't touch the adult foxes without permission, so you can safely enjoy this soothing wildlife experience!