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Overview

At over 1900 years old Zao is one of the oldest established onsen villages in Japan and in terms of onsen villages go it’s our no 1 recommendation, it really is A #1, nothing like waking up in the morning to the pungent smell of sulphur, it’s great for your skin and the best recovery onsen you will have in your life.

 

Zao Onsen is located on Mt Zao which is north of Tokyo, located close to Yamagata city, Zao is easily accessible via Shinkansen from Tokyo, from Yamagata station the bus trip to Zao is approx 30 minutes so you can be in resort in under 3 hours from Tokyo station, the Zao Onsen village at the base of the ski area provides a unique cultural experience with a traditional shopping street that winds through the village past centuries old Ryokans, Souvenir shops, Izzakayas and sake shops.

 

As well as being famous for its Onsen and traditional village, Zao is also famous for its Juhyo “Snow Monsters” that appear on the upper slopes of the resort every winter. The Juhyo are lit up at night during winter so an evening trip on the rope way to enjoy this spectacular sight is a must.

 

The resort is one of the largest in the region with three ropeways, a gondola and dozens of lifts, it’s perfect for families, beginners and intermediate skiers with long runs, the biggest is 9 km starting from the top of the ropeway and riding around through the snow monsters to the bottom of the village.  Advanced skiers might find things not as exciting as there is limited off piste ski areas and steeps.

 

Accommodation is traditional mainly in Ryokans with Futon bedding and that’s what we recommend to experience the culture and to immerse yourself in this wonderful village atmosphere, most properties are very close to the resort or ski in ski out, as the resorts dots down into the village in parts, so no matter where you stay the resorts lifts are close by.  Zao Onsen is well suited to couples without kids and groups that want to enjoy the culture and enjoy their skiing.

Adventures & Attractions

Our recommended resort highlights.

Ginzan Onsen
Ginzan Onsen

Ginzan Onsen, a nearly 100-year-old hot spring town in Yamagata’s mountains, offers rustic charm with ryokans and a pedestrian-only zone for walks.

Zao Onsen
Zao Public Onsen

Zao Onsen, with 1,900 years of history, offers acidic sulfur springs for skin and blood vessel rejuvenation. Enjoy three public baths and day spas.

Snow Monsters
Snow Monsters

In winter, Zao Onsen attracts visitors not for skiing but to see rime-encrusted snow monsters (Juhyo).

Yamagata City
Yamagata City

Yamagata City, the prefecture’s capital, offers diverse activities, cuisine, nightlife, and lodging. Enjoy dining and drinks and lively nightlife.

Yamagata Castle
Yamagata Castle

Yamagata Castle ruins, set in a public park, are a reminder of the Momogami feudal lords. It’s a popular spot for leisurely strolls.

Yamadera Temple
Yamadera Temple

Yamadera Temple, over 1,000 years old, is near Yamagata City and accessible by train (Yamadera Station). Climb its stone steps for serene forest views.

Zao Onsen
Zao Onsen Restaurants Bars

Zao Onsen offers many restaurants and izakayas, but most dine at their hotels, which serve fantastic meals. For more nightlife, head to Yamagata.

Night Snow Monster at Zao Onsen
Night Snow Monster Tour

Hop on a snow vehicle for the Night Snow Monster Tour! Get up close to illuminated snow monsters and stunning hoarfrost in an unforgettable experience.

Snow Shoe Trekking in Zao
Zao Snow Shoe Trekking

Discover Zao's hidden beauty on a snowshoe trek! Walk through snowy landscapes and uncover mysterious scenery in this peaceful winter adventure.

  • How to Reach Zao Onsen
  • Resorts & City Guide

By Air

International travellers arrive at Narita or Haneda. Use the JR East Pass to travel to Zao via Tokyo and Yamagata.

By Train

Take the Shinkansen to Yamagata Station, then a local bus to Zao Onsen (30 mins). Total travel time from Tokyo is about 3 hours.

By Car

Drive from Yamagata Station to Zao Onsen in approximately 30 mins. Renting a car allows easy access to the area.

By Bus

Regular buses from Yamagata Station to Zao Onsen take about 30 mins.

By Private Transfer

Private taxis or vans can be arranged from Yamagata Station to Zao Onsen (approx. 30 mins).

Below are some PDF tourist maps to help you navigate and enjoy your time at Zao Onsen.

Zao Onsen Trail Map Free. Work Offline. Share Anywhere

Zao Onsen Resort Map Free. Work Offline. Share Anywhere