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Zao Onsen

山形県

general.prefecture.

Kakunodate

This is a famous hot spring that gushes forth from the nature of Zao. The milky white water is strongly acidic to the point where it tingles the skin, and is effective for neuralgia, arteriosclerosis, and women's diseases. After enjoying skiing and seeing the frost-covered trees, why not warm up your chilled body and heal your fatigue in the hot spring?

Features & How to Enjoy

Classic Onsen

Highlights

Point 1

"Beauty Bath" with Rejuvenating Effects

Zao Onsen is home to one of the strongest acidic sulfur hot springs in Tohoku, known as the "Beauty Bath" for its rejuvenating effects on the skin. The strong acidity characteristic of sulfur springs activates mucopolysaccharide proteins in the body, rejuvenating the skin and blood vessels. Sulfur springs also have a blood circulation-promoting effect, which is said to be effective for heart health, constipation, diabetes, and more. Furthermore, sulfur springs have a sterilizing effect on the epidermis and strengthen the skin, making it possible to expect beautiful skin effects. The hot springs of Zao Onsen combine the rejuvenating effects on the skin and blood vessels with sterilization and beautiful skin effects, making it truly a "Beauty Bath." The unique components and effects of Zao Onsen's hot springs are loved by many people. For those seeking beautiful skin or good health, Zao Onsen's "Beauty Bath" is a recommended choice!

Point 2

Enjoy the Largest Skiing Area in Tohoku at Zao Onsen Ski Resort!

Zao Onsen Ski Resort, located in Zao Onsen, boasts the largest skiing area in the Tohoku region. The ZAO SUNRISE area in particular offers a variety of fun activities and unique slopes. Zoning is carried out to accommodate skiers of various levels and styles, from beginners to competitive skiers, and those focused on freeriding or snowboarding. Each zone has appropriate slopes and courses, allowing you to enjoy skiing according to your level and purpose. In addition, Zao Onsen Ski Resort offers a variety of attractions beyond skiing. The Kids Park has areas where even children can enjoy themselves, and the dedicated hotel "Snow Freak Sunrise" is also available. Furthermore, after skiing, you can warm up your body while enjoying hot gourmet food. Zao Onsen Ski Resort is a ski resort with a variety of skiing experiences and attractive facilities and services. It's recommended not only for skiers and snowboarders, but also for families and groups!

Point 3

Enjoy Beautiful Autumn Leaves with the Zao Ropeway!

At the Zao Ropeway in Zao Onsen, you can enjoy beautiful autumn leaves. In the vast Zao mountain range, nature gradually prepares for winter from late summer. The autumn leaves that start at the mountaintop draw a beautiful gradient of yellow, orange, red, and brick red, delighting the eyes of visitors. Especially at the Zao Ropeway, you can enjoy the vivid autumn leaves from above. The view from the high position of the ropeway is like a world of layered autumn colors, like a masterpiece. The scenery of the mountains and valleys covered in autumn leaves will be a beautiful once-in-a-lifetime sight. By using the Zao Ropeway to enjoy the autumn leaves, you can experience the luxury of feeling the changing of the seasons. Please feel the breath of nature while looking at the beautiful autumn leaves from above. Please enjoy the world of layered autumn colors like a masterpiece at the Zao Ropeway in Zao Onsen!

Point 4

Stroll Through a Hot Spring Town Wrapped in Steam!

At Zao Onsen, you can take a leisurely stroll through the hot spring town while being enveloped in steam. You can enjoy choosing souvenirs and spending a relaxing time while savoring the atmosphere of the old-fashioned hot spring town. In the charming hot spring town that spreads around the streets of Takayu and Jyukai, you can stroll while being surrounded by the faint scent of sulfur springs and steam. There are souvenir shops that handle various souvenirs and traditional Takayu-style kokeshi doll shops in the hot spring town. Please feel the atmosphere of the hot spring town while enjoying souvenir shopping. If you get a little tired during your walk, it is also recommended to take a break at a cozy cafe. Please enjoy the atmosphere of the hot spring town while spending a relaxing time. Zao Onsen's hot spring town stroll is recommended for those who want to spend a leisurely time. Please fully enjoy the charm of the hot spring town while being wrapped in steam and scent!

Point 5

Enjoy the Flavors of the Food Kingdom at Zao Gourmet!

At Zao Onsen, you can enjoy the flavors of Yamagata Prefecture, which is known for its abundant and unique ingredients. You can savor a rustic yet luxurious food culture. Yamagata is known as the food kingdom, and you can fully enjoy its flavors at Zao Onsen. The "cold meat soba," which became a topic of conversation on TV, is a specialty that can only be tasted here. In addition, you can enjoy Yamagata's famous dishes such as soba noodles and Jingisukan. Meals made with fresh local ingredients bring a luxurious taste and a sense of satisfaction. At Zao Onsen, you can enjoy the specialty dishes of the accommodation for dinner. Let's create memories of your trip while savoring special dishes made with local ingredients. For lunch, you can also enjoy Yamagata's gourmet food in the hot spring town. Please enjoy the local taste to the fullest at local diners and restaurants. Dining at Zao Onsen is a luxurious pleasure unique to the food kingdom. Please enjoy a gourmet journey while savoring the seasonal flavors of Yamagata!

Sightseeing

A Resort Hot Spring Area with a Variety of Tourist Facilities!

Zao Onsen is located in Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture. Its history dates back to about 1,900 years ago when it was discovered by Kibitsutaga-yu, who accompanied the Japanese Emperor Jimmu on his eastern expedition. During the Edo period, it prospered as the western climbing route to Zao Gongen and began to take on the appearance of a comprehensive resort. In the Taisho era, roads connecting the village at the foot of the mountain with the hot springs, streetlights, and police stations were developed, and the foundation of a tourist destination began to take shape. In the Showa era, ski resorts opened, facilities such as ropeways were developed, and tourist roads were opened. As a result, Zao established itself even more as a tourist destination. In addition to traditional inns, hotels, pensions, and guesthouses have also been opened one after another, providing a variety of accommodation options. Zao has developed into the largest comprehensive mountain resort in Tohoku, where you can enjoy outdoor activities such as beautiful natural environments, hot springs, skiing, and trekking throughout the four seasons. Zao Onsen is attractive for its long history, natural blessings, and a variety of tourist facilities, providing a comfortable stay for visitors!

Access

Access in about 20 minutes by car from Zao IC!

If you're using public transportation to get to Zao Onsen, take the Yamako bus bound for Zao Onsen from JR Yamagata Station and get off at the final stop, Zao Onsen Bus Stop, which takes about 45 minutes. If you're using a car, take National Route 286 via Yamagata Zao IC, then take Prefectural Route 53/Nishi Zao Kogen Line and Prefectural Route 21. After driving for about 20 minutes and covering a distance of about 18km, you'll arrive at Zao Onsen. Either way, it's a relatively easy route to access, so you can conveniently visit Zao Onsen. Enjoy the charm of the hot spring resort and have a pleasant trip.

Basic Information

Address

990-2301 Yamagata-ken, Yamagata-shi, Zao Onsen

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