The speaker visits Yamagata Prefecture in Japan for the first time. Initially, they are disappointed to find that there are no cherries, a famous product of the region, available due to the wrong season. However, they soon discover the charms of the region, including its hot springs, sake, and local cuisine.
The speaker visits Zao Onsen, a hot spring resort, where they enjoy the local specialties, including freshly made mochi and sake. They also visit a sake museum and a winery, where they learn about Japanese wine and its production process.
The speaker is particularly impressed by the local cuisine, including Yamagata ramen, which they find to be a unique and delicious experience. They also visit a local restaurant, where they try various dishes, including a soft-serve ice cream made from local milk.
Throughout their trip, the speaker is accompanied by a chartered taxi driver and a local guide, who help them navigate the region and introduce them to its hidden gems. Despite some initial disappointments, the speaker has a wonderful time in Yamagata Prefecture and declares it to be their new favorite prefecture in Japan.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. The speaker is in Yamagata Prefecture for the first time.
2. They don't know much about Yamagata Prefecture except that it's famous for cherries.
3. However, they checked in advance and found out that cherries are not yet in season.
4. The speaker is far from their home in Okazaki City, and it's not possible to fly to Yamagata.
5. They took the Shinkansen to get to Yamagata.
6. The speaker has to return home quickly because they have a job to attend to the next day.
7. They researched Yamagata and found that Zao Onsen is a popular tourist spot.
8. According to their research, Zao Onsen is about 30 minutes away from where they are.
9. The speaker wants to try ramen, which is famous in Yamagata.
10. They visited Zao Onsen and tried the local mochi, which they found delicious.
11. The speaker also visited a sake museum and tried different types of sake.
12. They met a winemaker who introduced them to Japanese wine.
13. The speaker tried a wine called Karakuchi Daitora, which they found delicious.
14. They visited a winery and learned about the wine-making process.
15. The speaker tried Japanese wine with a vanilla taste, similar to American Chardonnay.
16. They visited a restaurant and tried Yamagata ramen, which they found delicious.
17. The speaker had a great time in Yamagata and wants to return in the future.
18. They regret not being able to try Yonezawa beef and not visiting during cherry season.
19. The speaker returned home and felt satisfied with their trip to Yamagata.