Each region and prefecture in Japan have their own specialities when it comes to food. Sometimes the dishes are the same, but cooked differently, making for a whole new experience. 
Yamagata is located in the Tohoku region of Japan, right above Fukushima. Some of the foods have a distinct and traditional Japanese flavoring and look, a complex medley of flavors and ingredients. Other specialties of Yamagata are produce, simple but grown with such care that the sweetness and the juiciness is unrivaled. Here is a list of some of the goodies you should try if you're in Yamagata. They're positively yam-my. Not punny enough? Ok maybe it was a stretch...on to the list then!

1. Cherries

Japan in general is known for having seriously delicious cherries. Some people may not know this, but a majority of Japan's cherries are actually produced in Yamagata! They are known for their quality, and take great care in the harvesting process. That's why a single, small box can even be priced at about $50! 

If you're ever in Yamagata during cherry season, you can even pick your own cherries! Some people even pay to get "gift cherries" (which are some of the highest quality) shipped overseas!

2. La France Pears

Following the fruit trend, pears are also a specialty of Yamagata. La France Pears are a western pear and a bit of a higher end pear (but then  again almost all Japanese fruit is expensive...delicious, but pricey), but close to 80% of the pears are produced in Yamagata. The fruit is soft and juicy, and many Japanese people eat it with the skin peeled.

What can be better than a delicious sugary treat that's actually good for you?

3. Yonezawa Beef

I'm sure many of us know that Japan is really well-known for their beef, and having amazing quality beef dishes. We've heard of Kobe beef and wagyu, but not many people are aware that Yamagata also produces top-quality beef. The beef is also a source of pride for Yamagata, and can be frequently found in many dishes. The marbling of fat is well-balanced and creates a melt-in-your mouth texture for the most succulent dish!

Enjoy Yonezawa beef in barbecue, as shabu-shabu, or in sukiyaki. There are many restaurants you can try out that serve Yonezwawa beef!

4. Imoni

Imoni is one of the dishes to try in Yamagata. Whereas the other foods listed so far are not necessarily a dish, and more of an ingredient, this one is a savory meal that you can order in restaurants. The dish is a simmered dish that consists of taro potatoes and beef or fish in a soy-sauce based broth. Traditionally, people gather around riverbanks and enjoy it for events. There is even a festival called Imoni-kai Festival, where imoni is made in big pots!

5. Hiyashi Ramen

Hiyashi ramen, also known as cold ramen, originated in Yamagata. The dish is exactly what it sounds like. The ramen is chilled, sometimes with ice cubes, and topped with "summer" ingredients. Although each restaurant and household might prepare it differently, common toppings include cucumbers, green onions, seaaweed, and some form of meat. 

6. Hippari Udon

Natto is not something people who didn't grow up with can easily say that they like. The smell of the fermented beans, the texture, and the taste throws many people off. I've found that growing up with it makes a big difference in whether you like it or not - it's definitely an acquired taste. 

The reason I bring up the famous (or infamous, although I love it) natto is because this dish, hippari udon, is an udon dish thats mixed together with...natto! Depending on where you go, the flavors and toppings may also be different, but the one constant is the natto bean dipping sauce and some sort of fish sauce or fish element.

7. Mountain vegetables

Mountain vegetables are a common and delicious staple in Yamagata eateries and households. The geographic location of Yamagata with lush mountains means that the harvest of mountain vegetables is bountiful. You're bound to see the vegetables incorporated in dishes like soba, another dish they're known for, and tempura. 

8. Dashi

One of the last must try is a common side dish you'll find in Yamagata, especially during warmer days. Dashi in many places of Japan refers to flavors and is usually a broth, but in Yamagata dashi refers to a dish of finely chopped vegetables. The vegetables are also mixed in with konbu creating a somewhat slimy(a good kind of slimy!) texture. Most people usually eat it with rice and is a refreshing and yummy dish!

So these are some of the dishes to try when you're in Yamagata. Definitely use this as a guide, but don't feel limited to this list. There are loads of goodies and specialities region to region, but also restaurant to restaurant! Have you ever been to Yamagata? Is there anything we missed, or anything you recommend? Let us know on our Destination Japan Facebook page @DestinationJapanByHIS and we might update this list!