Discover the Timeless Charm of Zao Onsen

A Hot Spring Town with a 1900-Year History

Zao Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot spring resorts, has a history dating back 1900 years. Discovered by Kibitaga Yu during the eastern expedition of Prince Yamato Takeru, it gained prominence as a gateway for pilgrims to Mount Zao in the Edo period. The town evolved into a comprehensive resort by the Taisho era, with infrastructure such as roads, streetlights, and police stations enhancing its appeal. The Showa era saw the opening of ski resorts and the establishment of ropeways, further solidifying Zao Onsen’s reputation as a prime tourist destination. This historical evolution led to the development of a variety of accommodations including traditional inns, hotels, pensions, and guesthouses, making Zao Onsen the largest mountain resort in the Tohoku region.

Zao Onsen is a perfect blend of historical charm, therapeutic waters, and natural beauty, offering a rejuvenating experience for all. Whether you seek relaxation, health benefits, or an adventure in nature, Zao Onsen promises an unforgettable journey. Come and immerse yourself in the timeless allure of this ancient hot spring town.

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Embrace Nature and Tranquility

Zao Onsen is not only about hot springs but also its stunning natural environment. Surrounded by mountains at an altitude of 900 meters, it offers a serene escape perfect for health tourism. Visitors can enjoy various activities, from hiking and nature walks to witnessing the spectacular seasonal changes. A walk around Shiginoyachi Swamp, a lesser-known gem near the bus terminal, offers a peaceful retreat amidst lush greenery. The area is rich in flora, including skunk cabbage in spring and vibrant autumn leaves.

Therapeutic and Rejuvenating Waters

Zao Onsen's hot springs are renowned for their strong acidity, the highest in the Tohoku region. The sulfuric waters, often referred to as "beauty-making water," are known for their health benefits, including improved circulation and skin rejuvenation. These waters are effective against heart conditions, constipation, diabetes, and more. The unique properties of sulfuric springs promote the activation of mucopolysaccharides, increasing body hydration, and revitalizing both skin and blood vessels. With antimicrobial and skin-strengthening effects, Zao Onsen's baths are truly a "beauty bath."

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Diverse Hot Spring Experiences

Zao Onsen offers a variety of hot spring experiences, including three public baths, three footbaths, and five day-trip onsen facilities. Visitors can indulge in the luxury of touring multiple baths, each with its unique charm, from milky white waters to rare footbath sources.

Public Baths

  1. Kamiyu Public Bath

    • Hours: 6:00 - 22:00
    • Open year-round
    • Fee: Adults ¥200, Children ¥100

  2. Shimoyu Public Bath

    • Hours: 6:00 - 22:00
    • Open year-round
    • Fee: Adults ¥200, Children ¥100

  3. Kawarayu Public Bath

    • Hours: 6:00 - 22:00
    • Open year-round
    • Fee: Adults ¥200, Children ¥100

Footbaths

  1. Shimoyu Footbath

    • Hours: 6:00 - 22:00
    • Open year-round

  2. Robata Footbath

    • Hours: 8:00 - 21:30
    • Open year-round

  3. Yunohana Chaya Shinzaemon no Yu Footbath

    • Hours: 10:00 - 18:00 (April - November)

Day-Trip Onsen Facilities

  1. Zao Onsen Dai Rotenburo

    • One of the largest outdoor hot spring baths in Japan, providing a serene environment with beautiful views of the mountains.
    • Hours: 9:00 - 17:00 (Weekdays) / 9:00 - 18:00 (Weekends & Holidays)
    • Closed from late November to mid-April

  2. Ebiya Ryokan

    • Offering 100% natural hot spring water

  3. Genshichi Roten no Yu

    • Hours: 10:00 - 19:00 (Closed Wednesday mornings)

  4. Ryokan Yunoyado Itoya

    • Hours: 8:00 - 21:00

  5. Sunoko no Yu Kawaraya

    • Hours: 9:30 - 19:00 (Closed Thursdays)

  6. Iwashimizu Ryori no Yado Kinosato

    • Heartwarming hospitality

  7. Hotel Oak Hill

    • Family-friendly with year-round availability

  8. Yunohana Chaya Shinzaemon no Yu

    • Hours: 10:00 - 18:00 (Closed Wednesdays)

  9. Mogamitakayu Zennchi no Yu

    • Dog-friendly with five-star spring water

Sightseeing & Activities

Sightseeing Spots and Activities in and around Zao Onsen, Yamagata

  1. Zao Onsen Ski Resort:

    • A popular ski destination offering a variety of slopes for all skill levels. The resort is known for its powder snow and scenic beauty.

  2. Zao Ropeway:

    • Take a scenic ride up to the top of Mount Zao. The ropeway offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, especially during the winter when the "Snow Monsters" (frost-covered trees) are present.

  3. Zao Okama Crater:

    • A picturesque volcanic crater lake known for its vibrant emerald green color. The Okama Crater is accessible via a hiking trail or by taking the Zao Echo Line road.

  4. Zao Juhyo Festival:

    • Held in winter, this festival celebrates the "Snow Monsters." The illuminated trees create a magical and otherworldly atmosphere.

  5. Zao Fox Village:

    • A unique attraction where visitors can interact with and feed various species of foxes in a natural setting.

  6. Miyagi Zao Eboshi Resort:

    • Another ski resort offering excellent facilities and activities for skiers and snowboarders.

  7. Kattamine Shrine:

    • A historical shrine located near the summit of Mount Zao. It offers panoramic views and is a popular spot for hikers.

  8. Zao Dairy Center:

    • Visit the dairy center to taste fresh dairy products, including cheese and ice cream. The center also offers a petting zoo and farm tours.

  9. Zao Heartland:

    • An agricultural park where visitors can experience farm activities, horseback riding, and enjoy fresh produce.

  10. Hiking and Nature Trails:

    • Numerous trails around Zao Onsen provide opportunities for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the area, especially during the autumn foliage season.
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Access

How to Get to Zao Onsen, Yamagata

From Tokyo:

  1. By Shinkansen and Bus:

    • Step 1: Take the Yamagata Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Yamagata Station. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours.
    • Step 2: From Yamagata Station, take a direct bus to Zao Onsen. The bus ride takes about 40 minutes.

  2. By Car:

    • Drive from Tokyo to Yamagata via the Tohoku Expressway. The drive takes approximately 5-6 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
    • From Yamagata, follow the signs to Zao Onsen, which is about 30 minutes away by car.
From Sendai:

  1. By Train and Bus:

    • Step 1: Take the JR Senzan Line from Sendai Station to Yamagata Station. The train journey takes about 1.5 hours.
    • Step 2: From Yamagata Station, take a direct bus to Zao Onsen. The bus ride takes about 40 minutes.

  2. By Bus:

    • Direct buses run from Sendai Station to Zao Onsen. The journey takes approximately 2 hours.

  3. By Car:

    • Drive from Sendai to Yamagata via the Tohoku Expressway, which takes about 1.5 hours.
    • From Yamagata, follow the signs to Zao Onsen, which is about 30 minutes away by car.
From Niigata:

  1. By Train and Bus:

    • Step 1: Take the Joetsu Shinkansen from Niigata Station to Tokyo Station, then transfer to the Yamagata Shinkansen to Yamagata Station. This journey takes approximately 4-5 hours in total.
    • Step 2: From Yamagata Station, take a direct bus to Zao Onsen. The bus ride takes about 40 minutes.

  2. By Car:

    • Drive from Niigata to Yamagata via the Ban-Etsu and Tohoku Expressways. The drive takes approximately 3.5-4 hours.
    • From Yamagata, follow the signs to Zao Onsen, which is about 30 minutes away by car.

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