In the enchanting port city of Sakata, nestled along the Sea of Japan in the Yamagata region, a tapestry of history, nature, and culture unfolds. Sakata offers a plethora of captivating experiences, catering to diverse preferences. Whether you choose to wander through the city, marvel at the Tamasudara waterfall, or savor local specialties, boredom finds no place in Sakata. Sakata beckons you to explore its diverse facets, from the captivating marine life at Kamo Aquarium to the artistic allure of the Honma Museum of Art and the intriguing history of Kaikoji Temple's sokushinbutsu monks.

Worth seeing
Kamo Aquarium: Renowned for its impressive collection of gobies, the Kamo Aquarium showcases a mesmerizing array of goblin fish in various shapes and colors. The aquarium also features local fish, and its outdoor area hosts entertaining seal performances. The grass-covered roof provides a delightful spot to enjoy panoramic views of the sea.

Honma Museum of Art: A fusion of art and culture awaits at The Honma Museum of Art. The museum's main attraction is the adjacent Japanese garden and a grand villa from the Edo period. Inside the atmospheric villa, visitors can explore exhibits spanning previous centuries, including a traditional tatami room on the second floor. The picturesque garden with a serene pond and winding paths adds to the immersive experience.

Kaikoji Temple and Sokushinbutsu Monks: For a unique and somewhat macabre experience, visit Kaikoji Temple, home to two sokushinbutsu monks. Sokushinbutsu monks voluntarily undergo a rigorous process to become living mummies. They undertake over 1000 days of training, living in secluded mountainous areas, gradually reducing water intake to dehydrate their bodies. Upon death, they are buried alive in a wooden coffin and, after three years and three months, exhumed and displayed in a meditative position as sokushinbutsu. This practice is a form of self-sacrifice to alleviate the suffering of the world.

Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)