Yamagata City is located in the central east of Yamagata Prefecture, and together with surrounding municipalities, it forms the Yamagata Metropolitan Area. It is also a region rich in nature, offering a variety of seasonal scenery. Cherries, Yamagata beef, and imoni (simmered potatoes) made in a large pot are local specialties. Tourist attractions in the area include the Zao Ropeway and Zao Onsen. The Zao Ropeway takes you up to the mountaintop, and the view from the ropeway changes with the seasons, allowing you to see a variety of different scenery. Zao Onsen is also the largest hot spring resort in the Tohoku region, and is characterized by its many day-trip options as well as overnight stays. With a long history, Zao Onsen attracts many tourists from all over the country.