One of Japan’s most popular winter destinations is Ginzan Onsen in Yamagata prefecture. The former silver mine is a postcard-perfect winter escape, home to numerous ryokan (traditional Japanese inns), which flank the river that runs through the town. It's especially breathtaking when snow collects on the rooftops of buildings and streets in the winter months.
If you’re visiting Ginzan Onsen this winter, take note of this major change, as the town will be introducing a new system to tackle the issue of overtourism. From December 23 until the end of March 2025, Ginzan Onsen will be limiting the number of day trippers by requiring visitors to have a ticket. This new measure has been in development for some time, as the town has been working to address the challenges of managing large crowds during peak season, with pedestrians disregarding traffic rules and visitors competing for prime photo spots.
With this new ticketing system, visitors who are not staying overnight will be required to take a paid shuttle bus to Ginzan Onsen from the Taisho Romakan visitor centre. This bus ride cost ¥1,150 per person.
From 9am to 4pm, there will be no limit on the number of visitors to Ginzan Onsen. However, between 5pm and 8pm, access will be restricted to a maximum of 100 visitors per hour, and a shuttle bus reservation is mandatory. No day visitors will be allowed in from 8pm to 9am the following morning, with access limited to local residents and hotel or restaurant guests.
To get a shuttle bus ticket, you'll have to reserve in advance online (for visits in December and January). Those looking to visit in February and March will have to wait for tickets to go on sale on January 6.
If you’d rather skip the ticketing hassle, check out our top picks of the best onsen destinations in Japan.
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