Whilst the sakura is in full bloom in Kyoto and Tokyo, in Yamagata there are still blizzards and snow lies thick on the ground until April. From mid-May onwards, though, an extraordinary transformation takes place. As nature finally awakens from its slumber, trees burst back into life. Flowers appear overnight, and all around, the previously bare earth becomes vibrant once again.
The snow on the mountain tops melts away to reveal rich vegetation below. The rice that is planted in May soon grows tall and thick. From peaceful temple gardens to the fields and forests that surround the towns and villages of this rural prefecture, there is greenery everywhere.
Come to Yamagata during the summer months and you’ll be amazed by how many different shades of green you can see!
