The Takase area in Yamagata Prefecture is a 25-minute drive from Yamagata Station. The Takase area is reached by passing by the Bunshokan, a building in the British Early Modern Revival style and designated a National Important Cultural Property, and Enmeisui, where you can drink natural soft water from the Zao Mountains.
The Takase area is a safflower production area. Saurobana is used as a dye and cooking oil, but visitors can also enjoy appreciating the transformation of safflowers, which start out bright yellow, then turn orange and gradually turn red. The 'safflower culture supported by Yamadera', comprising the 'safflower field scenery' and the 'safflower festival' in early summer, has been recognised as a Japanese Heritage Site.