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[Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture] What kind of place is Yonezawa? Trivia series to help you understand the region, including its history, sightseeing spots, and specialties
[Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture] What kind of place is Yonezawa? Trivia series to help you understand the region, including its history, sightseeing spots, and specialties
It would be cool if you could explain smoothly when someone asks you, "What's XXX like?"The "Regional Trivia Treasure Box" series is packed with trivia that will come in handy in such situations. We'll introduce you to a carefully selected collection of trivia that characterizes the region from various angles, including history and culture.
This time, we will open the lid of a treasure trove of trivia about Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture. What kind of area is Yonezawa City?
Yonezawa City, a place associated with the famous Sengoku general "Uesugi Kenshin"! Walking with the Uesugi family
Yonezawa City was ruled by the Uesugi clan for 272 years. The days that the Uesugi clan lived in Yonezawa were a series of hardships
The founder of the Uesugi clan was the famous Sengoku period general, Uesugi Kenshin . Kenshin's successor, Kagekatsu, served as one of Toyotomi Hideyoshi's Five Elders and ruled over 1.2 million koku of land in Aizu. However, in 1600, the Western Army was defeated in the Battle of Sekigahara, and Kagekatsu, who was an enemy of Tokugawa Ieyasu, had his territory reduced to 300,000 koku in Yonezawa. His territory, his source of income, was cut by 75%... In such a situation, the first thing that would normally come to mind would be personnel reductions. However, Kagekatsu refused to reduce his retainers at all, choosing to walk the difficult path together.
However, the Yonezawa domain's hardships continued. Tsunakatsu, the third lord of the domain and grandson of Kagekatsu, died suddenly at the young age of 25. As he had no children yet, the family and domain faced the threat of abolition due to the lack of a successor. Although they narrowly avoided abolition by adopting a son, they were unable to avoid the punishment of having their territory reduced to 150,000 koku. Compared to the time of Aizu rule, their territory was now only one-eighth of what it had been. The domain's finances were steadily declining, and they were in a state of debt hell
The person who saved the situation was Uesugi Yozan, who became the 9th feudal lord
"If you try, it will be done. If you don't try, it won't be done. If something doesn't get done, it's because people don't try."
He is also famous for this famous quote. Yozan became the lord of the domain at the age of 17. He personally implemented great frugality, created rice fields, developed irrigation systems, and undertook various initiatives to promote industry, all of which were a great success. He also focused on education, opening the domain school, Kojokan. By the time Yozan passed away at the age of 72, the domain had almost paid off all of its debts. He truly embodied the spirit of "if you try, you can do it," and was a great man who built the foundation for modern-day Yonezawa City
Uesugi family mausoleum
In honor of the Uesugi family's achievements, many historical sites dedicated to them remain in Yonezawa City. Uesugi Shrine, a famous tourist destination, is dedicated to Uesugi Kenshin. Within the grounds, there is also the Keishoden Hall, which houses many important cultural properties, including items related to the family's founder, Kenshin, the first feudal lord, Kagekatsu, senior vassal Naoe Kanetsugu, and the ninth feudal lord, Yozan
Yonezawa City Uesugi Museum
Matsusaki Shrine, adjacent to the east side of Uesugi Shrine, is a shrine dedicated to Uesugi Yozan. Also, the Yonezawa City Uesugi Museum, adjacent to the southeast side of Uesugi Shrine, is a must-see. In addition to housing valuable items related to the Uesugi family, you can also learn more about the history of the Uesugi family and Yonezawa City
Information <Uesugi Shrine>
Name: Uesugi Shrine
Address: 1-4-13 Marunouchi, Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture
Festivals with a historical atmosphere are held in early summer and winter
Uesugi Snow Lantern Festival
Yonezawa City has festivals that can be called early summer and winter traditions
The Yonezawa Uesugi Festival held every year from April 29th to May 3rd , coincides with Matsusaki Shrine's annual spring festival. The Uesugi Procession and the Battle of Kawanakajima on the final day are particularly famous. In the Uesugi Procession, people dressed as warriors in glittering armor parade through the streets of Yonezawa. The Battle of Kawanakajima is an event that recreates the showdown between Uesugi and Takeda, said to be the largest battle in the history of the Sengoku period. The spectacular battle scene, in which both armies clash, is a must-see for fans of the Sengoku period.
Another popular winter event is the Uesugi Snow Lantern Festival . Over 300 snow lanterns and 1,000 lit candles are set up in Matsusaki Park, creating a fantastical effect on the snowy landscape of Yonezawa. Yonezawa is a harsh city with a lot of snow, but the flickering warmth of the lights seems to represent the gentle and strong-willed hearts of its people. Why not enjoy this atmospheric sight?
Tengendai Plateau: A leisure spot you can enjoy in both summer and winter
Tengendai Plateau
The Ou Mountains, Azuma Mountain Range, and Iide Mountain Range. Surrounded by rugged mountains, Yonezawa City's beautiful natural scenery is a unique tourist attraction. One of these is the Tengendai Plateau . It is also famous as the trailhead for Mount Nishi-Azuma, one of Japan's 100 most famous mountains, and is a popular leisure spot where you can enjoy mountain climbing and trekking in the summer and skiing in the winter.
The ropeway to Tengendai Kogen operates from Yumoto Station at the foot of the mountain. It takes 6 minutes to reach Tengendai Kogen Station, offering panoramic views of the Iide mountain range and the townscape of Yonezawa City. In the snow-free season, camping, mountain climbing, trekking, and hiking are popular, with the observation deck, wildflower garden, and camping field all within easy reach. The summer mountain lift allows you to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the air while admiring the alpine plants at your feet
In winter, the resort transforms into Tengendai Ski Resort, where you can enjoy all kinds of snow activities. Its most notable feature is its long operating period. It is usually open until Golden Week, so you can enjoy spring skiing. With three slopes of varying difficulty and a family park where you can enjoy sledding and mini-skiing, it offers a wide range of activities to suit a wide range of visitors. The resort is plentiful with high-quality powder snow, nurtured by the harsh natural environment
Information<Tengendai Plateau>
Name: Tengendai Plateau
Address: 12118-6, Riyama, Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture
If you visit Yonezawa, you should definitely try "Yonezawa Beef"
Yonezawa beef
Yonezawa City has proposed the "ABC of Yonezawa" . It is an acronym for Apple, Beef, and Carp. When it comes to beef in Yonezawa City, the most famous brand of beef is Yonezawa Beef ! If you visit Yonezawa City, you'll definitely want to try Yonezawa Beef! Many people are excited about this.
The person who first sparked the name of Yonezawa beef to become known around the world was Charles Henry DallasKojokan a domain school opened by Uesugi Yozan . At the time, eating four-legged animals was not a custom in Yonezawa. However, Dallas, who preferred meat, had a strong desire to eat beef! So when he took up his post as a teacher, he brought a Japanese chef from Yokohama. When he tried the cooked Yonezawa beef, he was blown away by how delicious it was! When he finished his term and left Yonezawa, he took a cow to Yokohama and treated his friends to it. Everyone who tried it praised its flavor, and this is said to have been the catalyst that helped spread the name of Yonezawa beef.
Yonezawa beef is characterized by its fine marbling and sweet red meat. The fat has such a low melting point that it melts at body temperature, making it melt the moment you put it in your mouth. You can enjoy its soft texture
Yonezawa beef steak
There are many restaurants near Yonezawa Station where you can try Yonezawa beef, which is great news for train passengers. For example, "Ushi no Ongaeshi Takayamako" serves fresh Yonezawa beef delivered directly from their own ranch. You can enjoy the tenderest, finest beef at a reasonable price. They also sell Yonezawa beef on the first floor, making it a great place to pick up souvenirs.
Information ＜The Cow Returns: Lord Takayama＞
Title: The Cow Returns a Favor, Takayama
Address: 3-1-50 Higashi, Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture
Yoshitsune-yaki: a soul food known only to those in the know
Yoshitsune ware
When you think of meat in Yonezawa City, you think of Yonezawa beef! ... But another recommendation "Yoshitsune Yaki .
To put it simply, Yoshitsune-yaki is miso-flavored Jingisukan. Namikata Lamb Shop , where thinly sliced lamb is marinated in rich miso. Stir-fry it on a hot plate with plenty of vegetables...and you'll have a delicious meat dish! The lamb has no unpleasant odor and is cooked to a moist finish. The smell alone will make you crave rice! Once you start eating, you won't be able to stop having seconds! This deliciousness is truly "devilish."
the "Anjamo Nanban" and "Grain Mustard" from Namikata Lamb Shop . Anjamo Nanban is incredibly spicy... but strangely addictive, like the "Karashi Nanban." It pairs perfectly with Yoshitsune-yaki! It can be used in a variety of ways, such as in meat dishes or ramen, so anyone who likes spicy food will definitely want to keep some on hand. The first thing that strikes everyone about the grain mustard is its beautiful appearance. The mustard seeds are plump and uniform in size. With just the right amount of acidity, a fragrant aroma, and a clean flavor, it elevates the flavor of meat. It's great for not only lamb, but any meat or fish, too, so it makes a thoughtful gift for cooking enthusiasts or a souvenir for a BBQ.
Information <Namikata Lamb Shop>
Name: Namikata Lamb Shop
Address: 2-1-30 Higashi, Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture
Yonezawa City is great because you can enjoy history, leisure activities, and gourmet food!
This time we introduced some trivia about Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture
Yonezawa City has developed to this day as a place associated with the Uesugi clan, a name from the Warring States period. Historical sites filled with the romance of history, a climate where you can enjoy nature in all four seasons, and delicious cuisine await you. Why not experience its charm for yourself?
![cdcbffca33a8c5ebfea62dd97bd3b524_m](https://jp.neft.asia/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cdcbffca33a8c5ebfea62dd97bd3b524_m-150x150.jpg.webp "[Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture] Let's go to the "Uesugi Snow Lantern Festival" and enjoy the shining orange lights in the silver world! You can also enjoy Yamagata gourmet food.")
