Activities

Welcome drinking

Welcome drinking is planned on Monday Night (10 May 2027) 

Banquet

The Banquet is planned on Thursday Night (13 May 2027) 

Venue: 

Sendai Aoba Festival

Sendai Aoba Festival will take place on 15-16 May 2027.

https://www.aoba-matsuri.com/en/ (previous one 2026)

Note: You will also need to book accommodation well in advance for the nights of 14th and15th.

Excursions (Reservation Needed)

• Bus tour for Okama Crater Lake in Miyagi & Yama-dera in Yamagata

Okama (御釜) is a crater lake located in one of the highest-elevation areas in the central part of the Zao mountain range. It is also known as Goshikinuma (“Five-Colored Pond”). Okama is often regarded as a symbol of the Zao Mountains. Approximately 300,000 people visit the lake each year.

Okama is completely surrounded by the outer rim of the volcano and a central volcanic cone that has been deeply carved by an explosion crater. Its shape can therefore be compared to a traditional Japanese cooking pot, or kama, filled with water. The temperature of the lake water has also risen on several occasions due to volcanic activity. Although the exact origin of the name “Okama” is unclear, it is sometimes said to derive either from the pot-like shape of the surrounding terrain or from changes in the lake’s water temperature caused by volcanic activity.

Yamadera (山寺), literally meaning “mountain temple,” is a historic and scenic temple complex located in Yamagata Prefecture. Its official name is Risshakuji Temple, and it was founded in 860. The temple is built along the steep slopes of a forested mountain, with more than 1,000 stone steps leading from the foot of the mountain to the upper temple area. Along the way, visitors can enjoy historic temple buildings, stone monuments, and beautiful mountain scenery.
Yamadera is also famous for its association with the renowned Japanese haiku poet Matsuo Bashō, who visited the temple in 1689 and composed one of his best-known haiku there. From the upper part of the temple, especially the Godaido observation hall, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valley. With its combination of history, nature, and spectacular scenery, Yamadera is one of the most popular sightseeing destinations in Yamagata.

Nearby Attractions (No Reservation Needed)

Train:

• Matsushima

• Sakunami Onsen

Rent-car:

• Zao Fox village

• Akiu Onsen