![[Studio Ghibli] Only Yesterday – Yamagata Prefecture (Rural Town Scenery) Yamagata Prefecture](https://anime-place.site/cms/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/img_2877.jpg)
Introduction: The Deep Connection Between “Only Yesterday” and Yamagata Prefecture
“Only Yesterday,” released by Studio Ghibli in 1991, is a gem of a work directed by Isao Takahata. The story of Taeko, a 27-year-old office worker in Tokyo, visiting a rural town in Yamagata Prefecture during summer vacation and confronting herself, captured the hearts of many audiences.
One of the major attractions of this work is the beautiful rural landscape of Yamagata Prefecture depicted in it. The lush rice paddies, safflower fields, traditional farmhouse life, and magnificent natural scenery are masterfully rendered through the medium of animation.
In this article, we will thoroughly explain the rural landscape of Yamagata Prefecture as it appears in “Only Yesterday,” including the real-life model locations, the characteristics of how they are depicted in the work, and the pilgrimage spots that can actually be visited.
Work Overview: What is “Only Yesterday”?
Basic Information
- Release Date: July 20, 1991
- Director: Isao Takahata
- Original Work: By Akira Okamoto and Yuko Tone
- Music: Masaru Hoshi
- Theme Song: “Love is a Flower, You are Its Seed” by Harumi Miyako
- Voice Cast: Miki Imai, Toshiro Yanagiba, and others
Story
Taeko Okajima, a 27-year-old office worker in Tokyo, feels exhausted by work and daily life. On a train headed to Yamagata Prefecture to stay at the family home of her sister’s husband, she finds memories from when she was in fifth grade coming back to her one after another.
In Yamagata, she meets Toshio, a young man passionate about organic farming, and while helping with safflower picking and farm work, she experiences rural life. As past memories and present experiences intertwine, Taeko confronts her true feelings.
Why Yamagata Prefecture Was Chosen as the Setting
Director Isao Takahata’s Commitment
Director Takahata had a strong commitment to depicting “authentic rural Japan” in this work. The reasons Yamagata was chosen include the following elements:
- History as a Safflower-Producing Region: Yamagata Prefecture has been one of Japan’s leading safflower-producing regions since the Edo period, and it became an important motif in the work.
- Beautiful Agricultural Landscape: The vast rice paddies of the Yamagata Basin possess a beauty that could be called the archetypal Japanese landscape.
- Traditional Rural Culture: A regional character where organic farming and traditional agricultural methods are still being passed down.
- Rich Seasonal Changes: Distinct seasonal transitions and the accompanying changes in landscape.
Thorough On-Location Research
The Studio Ghibli production team conducted meticulous research in Yamagata Prefecture. By carefully observing actual scenery, buildings, and people’s daily lives, and creating repeated sketches, they created background art with genuine realism.
The Rural Landscape of Yamagata Prefecture as Depicted in the Work
The Beauty of Safflower Fields
One of the most impressive scenes in “Only Yesterday” is the safflower field work scene. The scene of picking safflowers wet with morning dew is portrayed beautifully yet harshly, despite being animation.
Safflowers must be picked early in the morning while their thorns are still soft, and the scene where Taeko experiences the difficulty of this work becomes an important scene conveying the reality of agricultural labor.
Rural Landscape and Farmhouse Life
The work features typical rural landscapes of Yamagata Prefecture throughout.
- Vast Rice Paddies: The landscape of rice paddies stretching as far as the eye can see symbolizes Japan’s rice-growing culture.
- Traditional Farmhouse Architecture: Thatched-roof houses and wooden farmhouses are carefully depicted.
- Agricultural Work Scenes: Seasonal farm work such as rice planting, harvesting, and safflower picking are depicted as part of daily life.
- Satoyama Nature: The satoyama forests surrounding the fields are also important background elements of the work.
The Atmosphere of Yamagata’s Summer
Director Takahata made great effort in expressing the unique atmosphere of Yamagata’s summer.
- Strong Sunlight: The intense summer sun and the strong contrast of the shadows it creates.
- Cumulus Clouds: Depictions of large cumulus clouds floating in the summer sky.
- Sound of Cicadas: The sound of cicadas, used as a sound effect, enhances the portrayal of summer heat.
- Beauty of Dusk: The beauty of the sunset sinking over the agricultural land is one of the work’s memorable scenes.
Actual Model Locations and Sacred Sites for Pilgrimage
Takase District (Yamagata City)
It is said that the Takase District and its surroundings in Yamagata City served as the primary setting model for “Only Yesterday.” This area still features beautiful rural landscapes where one can feel the atmosphere of the film.
Points of Interest:
- Vast rice paddy areas
- Traditional farmhouse architecture
- Safflower cultivation fields (seasonal)
Around Yamagata Station
The station where Taeko arrives is believed to be modeled after Yamagata Station. While the current Yamagata Station has been modernized, some places in the surrounding area retain traces of that era.
Around Mount Gassan
The mountains appearing in the work are said to have been referenced from Mount Gassan and other mountains in Yamagata.
Characteristics:
- Majestic mountain scenery
- Beautiful landscapes throughout the seasons
- Hiking and trekking also possible
Safflower Village (Various Locations in Yamagata Prefecture)
Safflower cultivation still occurs in several regions throughout Yamagata Prefecture.
Main Safflower Cultivation Areas:
- Takase District, Yamagata City: The location closest to the film’s image
- Kawakita Town: Features a “Safflower Museum” where you can learn about safflower culture
- Shirataka Town: At the “Safflower Hall,” safflower dyeing experiences are available
Best Viewing Period: Late June to early July
Bunshokan (Former Prefectural Government Building and Prefectural Assembly Hall)
Bunshokan in Yamagata City does not appear directly in the film but is an important spot for understanding Yamagata’s history and culture. Its beautiful Taisho-era Western architecture makes it a must-visit place for Yamagata tourism.
Characteristics of Landscape Depiction in “Only Yesterday”
Director Isao Takahata’s Direction Techniques
Director Takahata employed unique landscape depiction techniques in this work.
- Realistic Background Art: Thoroughly researched from real locations, pursuing realism.
- Expression of Light and Shadow: Careful depiction of light changes according to time of day and weather.
- Direction of Atmosphere: Expression of atmosphere that makes you feel humidity and temperature.
- The Scent of Daily Life: Attention to detail so that people’s daily lives are felt.
The Subtlety of Color Design
The work’s color design is also an important element in making Yamagata’s landscape striking.
- Vibrant Red of Safflowers: Safflower’s red as the work’s symbolic color.
- Green of Agricultural Land: Varying shades of green expressing fields and mountains.
- Blue of Summer Sky: Contrast of crystal-clear blue sky and white clouds.
- Orange of Sunset: Sunset colors evoking a nostalgic atmosphere.
Landscape Expression Through Sound
Sound effects, not just visuals, greatly contribute to landscape expression.
- Natural Sounds: Wind, water, insect sounds, etc.
- Sounds of Daily Life: Sounds of farm work, people’s voices, etc.
- Music: The music by Masaru Hoshi gives emotion to the landscape.
The Meaning of “Rural Life” as Depicted in the Work
Contrast Between Urban and Rural Life
“Only Yesterday” highlights what modern people are losing by contrasting contemporary urban life in Tokyo with rural life in Yamagata.
Urban (Tokyo):
- Convenient but hurried lifestyle
- Lack of depth in human relationships
- Disconnection from nature
- Environment that tends to make one lose oneself
Rural (Yamagata):
- Unhurried time spent in harmony with nature
- Intense human relationships
- Daily life where one feels the seasons directly
- Environment where one can confront oneself
The Relationship Between Agriculture and Humanity
The work depicts the relationship between humanity and nature through agriculture. The organic farming that Toshio practices is portrayed as a symbol not merely of a farming method, but of a way of life in harmony with nature.
The Expression of Nostalgia
By alternating between Taeko’s reminiscence scenes and present-day scenes, personal memory and Japan’s archetypal landscape overlap, creating universal nostalgia.
Practical Guide for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
How to Access
By Train:
- From Tokyo Station to Yamagata Station on the Yamagata Shinkansen “Tsubasa” in approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes
- From Sendai Station to Yamagata Station on the Senzan Line in approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes
By Car:
- Using the Yamagata Expressway, from Yamagata Kuro IC to the city center
Recommended Touring Route
One-Day Course:
- Morning: Arrive at Yamagata Station → Tour the rural landscape of Takase District
- Noon: Enjoy Yamagata specialties (imoni stew, soba, etc.)
- Afternoon: Tour safflower-related facilities (seasonal)
- Late afternoon: Visit Bunshokan → Explore Yamagata city
Two-Day Course:
- Day 1: Above course
- Day 2: Explore nature around Mount Gassan → Relax at a hot spring
Best Seasons
Safflower Season (Late June to Early July):
- See landscapes closest to the film’s image
- Safflower festivals and other events are held
Rice Ear Season (September to October):
- Golden rice paddies are beautiful
- Can experience the bustle of harvest season
New Green Season (May to June):
- Rice paddies after planting are beautiful
- Pleasant weather ideal for walking
Important Precautions
- Respect for Private Property: Fields and farmhouses are private property. Do not enter without permission.
- Do Not Interfere with Farm Work: When taking photographs, be mindful not to interfere with agricultural work.
- Take Litter with You: To preserve beautiful rural landscapes, always take litter with you.
- Traffic Safety: Rural roads may be narrow in places. Drive with utmost care.
The Appeal of Yamagata Prefecture: Beyond “Only Yesterday”
Rich Food Culture
Yamagata Prefecture is also known as a treasure trove of food.
- Cherries: Boasts the nation’s highest production volume
- Rice: High-quality rice such as “Tsuyahime” and “Yukiwakamaru”
- Soba: Yamagata’s soba culture is famous nationally
- Imoni Stew: An autumn tradition, a local dish enjoyed on riverbanks
- Ramen: Yamagata ramen culture has evolved uniquely
Hot Spring Culture
Yamagata Prefecture is also known as a hot spring prefecture, with hot springs scattered throughout the region.
- Zao Hot Spring: Strong acidic sulfurous spring
- Ginzan Hot Spring: Hot spring town brimming with Taisho-era charm
- Kaminoyama Hot Spring: Historic hot spring in a castle town
Traditional Crafts
- Yamagata Casting: Traditional crafts with a thousand-year history
- Safflower Dyeing: The traditional dyeing technique featured in the film
- Shogi Pieces: Tendo City leads Japan in shogi piece production
What “Only Yesterday” Questions in Modern Times
Choice of Lifestyle
Through Taeko’s story, the work questions us about our choice of lifestyle. Convenient urban life versus simple yet rich rural life—there is no single correct answer, and it makes us consider what is truly important to us.
Gaze Toward Disappearing Landscapes
More than 30 years have passed since the film’s 1991 release, and rural landscapes like those depicted in the work are now decreasing throughout Japan. This work serves as an important record that makes us reconsider the value of such landscapes.
Dialogue with Oneself
Just as Taeko engages in dialogue with her past self, the film teaches us the importance of confronting our own “only yesterday” memories. It becomes an opportunity to recover our original self, often forgotten in the busyness of daily life.
The Position of “Only Yesterday” in Studio Ghibli Works
A Ghibli Work for Adults
“Only Yesterday” is positioned as a particularly adult-oriented work among Studio Ghibli productions. A work devoid of fantasy elements set in contemporary Japan is a rare existence among Ghibli works.
The Artistic Signature of Director Isao Takahata
A work where Director Takahata’s unique artistic perspective, different from that of Director Hayao Miyazaki, is demonstrated.
- Pursuit of Realism: Thorough commitment to realism
- Discovery in the Everyday: A perspective that finds beauty in the ordinary and unremarkable
- Social Consciousness: Integration of social themes such as agriculture, environment, and way of life
Commercial Success
Upon release, it recorded box office revenues of 3.18 billion yen, becoming the top-grossing Japanese film of 1991. It achieved unprecedented success for an adult-oriented animation film.
The Work’s Influence and Legacy
Tourism Effects on Yamagata Prefecture
“Only Yesterday” greatly contributed to promoting tourism in Yamagata Prefecture. People who learned of Yamagata’s appeal through the work began visiting in person, creating a phenomenon that could be called a precursor to “anime tourism.”
Interest in Organic Farming
The work’s depiction of organic farming efforts, which was still uncommon at the time, became an opportunity to raise awareness of organic agriculture.
Yearning for Rural Living
The work also became one catalyst for the “rural living” boom, which saw people moving from cities to countryside. The appeal of rural life depicted in the work showed many people the possibility of “another way of life.”
To Enjoy the Work More Deeply
Comparison with the Original Manga
The original manga by Akira Okamoto and Yuko Tone focuses primarily on episodes from elementary school years. The film adds significantly to Taeko’s experiences in Yamagata as an adult, giving it a depth different from the original.
The Appeal of the Soundtrack
The music by Masaru Hoshi greatly supports the work’s atmosphere. Particularly, the theme song “Love is a Flower, You are Its Seed” (The Rose), sung by Harumi Miyako, is a masterpiece symbolizing the work’s theme.
Voice Acting Performances
The natural performances of Miki Imai (adult Taeko) and Yoko Honma (young Taeko), as well as Toshiro Yanagiba (Toshio), enhance the work’s realism. By casting actors rather than professional voice actors, a more everyday conversational atmosphere emerges.
Conclusion: What the Rural Landscape of Yamagata in “Only Yesterday” Teaches Us
The rural landscape of Yamagata Prefecture depicted in “Only Yesterday” is not merely a backdrop. It is like a hometown of the heart that reminds us of precious things we are forgetting.
Beautiful safflower fields, sprawling rice paddies, majestic mountains, and the warm daily life of people. These landscapes, despite being from a work over 30 years old, continue to touch the hearts of many people.
Visiting Yamagata Prefecture in person allows you not only to encounter the landscapes you saw in the film but to feel the land’s air, scents, sounds, and people’s daily lives through all five senses. It will be an experience far richer than what you felt through the screen.
“Only Yesterday” questions us: What is truly important? How do you want to live? How do you confront your own “only yesterday”? The beautiful rural landscape of Yamagata provides a quiet and rich place to grapple with such questions.
Please, watch the work and then visit Yamagata in person. The moment when the landscape on screen becomes part of your own “only yesterday” may come.
