Zao Onsen (Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Zao Onsen is an ancient hot spring located on the outskirts of Yamagata City, with records of its discovery dating back to the Heian and Edo periods. The hot springs are sulfate and hydrogen sulfide springs characterized by their strong acidity and sulfurous scent, and are said to be effective in treating skin ailments and relieving fatigue. The hot spring town is lined with inns, bathhouses, and souvenir shops along the cobblestone slopes, allowing you to enjoy the old-fashioned atmosphere.

In winter, heavy snowfall on the Zao mountain range forms "juhyo (snow monsters)," attracting many tourists from both Japan and abroad. This area allows you to enjoy nature and hot springs throughout the year, with ski and snowboard slopes, a ropeway, and hiking trails leading to Okama, a crater lake at the summit.

Highlights

• Zao Onsen Town: Cobblestone slopes, old inns, footbaths, and public baths (outdoor baths) are scattered throughout the area. Enjoy exploring the hot springs while you stroll.
• Large open-air bath: A large open-air bath (public bath) where you can enjoy the mountain view while bathing (opening times vary depending on the season).
• Zao Ropeway Ski Resort: Access the summit from the base of the mountain. Enjoy viewing frost-covered trees in winter, and hiking and observing alpine plants from spring to autumn.
• Juhyo (winter): A natural work of art created by the extreme cold and snow. The viewing period varies depending on the weather and temperature, but the peak is January to February.
• Okama: A crater lake with an emerald green color. If the weather is good, you can see the vivid colors (via the hiking trail or tourist road).

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Train + Bus: JR Yamagata Station is the closest major station. From Yamagata Station, take the Yamako Bus (bound for Zao Onsen) to Zao Onsen Bus Terminal, which takes about 40-50 minutes.
• Expressway bus: From Sendai, take the direct bus from Sendai Station (seasonal service available) for approximately 60 to 90 minutes.
• By car: Take the Tohoku Expressway and Yamagata Expressway to Yamagata Zao IC or Yamagata Zao Smart IC, then take the national and prefectural roads for approximately 40 to 60 minutes (chains or studless tires are required in winter).
• Airport: From Yamagata Airport, take the limousine bus to Yamagata Station (approximately 25 minutes), then take a bus from Yamagata Station to Zao Onsen.
• To get to the summit, take the Zao Ropeway (you can walk or take a shuttle from the hot spring town to the ropeway station).

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Day trip: A stroll around the hot spring town plus a day trip to the baths takes about 2 to 4 hours.
• Hot springs + sightseeing (including Okama and ropeway): Half a day to a full day (varies depending on travel time).
• Skiing/snowboarding accommodation: 2 days or more, 1 night recommended (2-3 days if you want to fully enjoy skiing).
• Relaxing hot spring therapy/stay: You can enjoy the hot springs and sightseeing in the surrounding area at your leisure for 2-3 nights or more.

Nearby spots

• Zao Mountain Range/Zao Ropeway: Enjoy the view from the summit area, viewing the frost-covered trees, and hiking.
• Okama (Goshikinuma): A spectacular spot to view the crater lake (the color changes depending on the weather and season).
• Yamadera Temple (Risshakuji Temple, Yamagata City, approximately 40-60 minutes travel time): An ancient temple built on a steep rock face and a popular tourist attraction.
• Yamagata City Center: Yamagata Castle ruins, local cuisine, and spots for walking around the city.
• Tendo (approximately 30-40 minutes by car): Known as the town of shogi, it also has hot springs and fruit orchards.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Crowds: Accommodations, roads, and ropeways are crowded during the frost-covered trees season (January to February), the New Year holidays, consecutive holidays, and ski season. We recommend making reservations early.
• Weather and Roads: Heavy snow, blizzards, and frozen roads are likely in winter, so chains, studless tires, and winter gear are essential. The ropeway and roads to the summit may be closed due to bad weather.
• Hot spring properties: The hot spring is acidic and sulfurous, so metal items (accessories, etc.) may discolor. If you have sensitive skin or open wounds, please check before bathing.
• Bathing etiquette: Pour hot water over yourself and wash your body before entering the bath. Do not use towels or wash yourself in the bathtub. Be careful not to get sick from bathing for too long. Some facilities may refuse entry to those with tattoos, so please check in advance.
• Nature Conservation: To protect the frost-covered trees and alpine plants, please stay on the designated trails. Be sure to take your trash home or dispose of it in the designated area.
• Tourist Information: Opening days and times, as well as ropeway and bus operation status, may change depending on the season and weather, so please check with the official website or accommodation before visiting.

*The above travel times and operation information are estimates only. They may change depending on the season, road conditions, and changes to the operation schedule. Please check the latest information before traveling.