Okama Crater

The Okama crater (御釜), also known as the Mount Zao crater, is a volcanic crater lake located in the Zao mountain range on the border of the Yamagata and Miyagi Prefectures in Japan. The crater is known for its distinctive shape and its vibrant color, which changes depending on the weather and the time of day.

The Okama crater was formed around 200 years ago during a volcanic eruption in 1821. The crater is approximately 360 meters in diameter and 27 meters deep, and it is filled with water that can range from a deep blue to a bright green, giving the crater its nickname of the “Five-Color Pond”.

The Okama crater is located near the summit of Goshiki-dake, one of the peaks in the Zao mountain range. In the summer months, visitors can hike or take the Zao Ropeway to the top of the mountain to get a closer look at the crater and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains. The area around the Okama crater is closed during the winter months.

The area around the Okama crater is also known for its hot springs and onsen (hot spring resorts), such as the Goshiki Onsen, which offer visitors a chance to relax and unwind after a long day of hiking.

The Okama crater is a popular tourist destination and is considered to be one of the most scenic spots in Japan. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the crater and its surroundings, as well as the many outdoor activities and hot springs in the area during the warmer months.

Getting there

By Car

• Drive along the Zao Echo Line (open late April to early November)
• Two parking options:

1. Free parking lot with ski lift to Kattadake peak (750 yen round-trip)
2. Paid parking lot (550 yen) near Kattadake peak, 5-10 minute walk to viewing area

By Bus

From Yamagata Station:

• One bus per day (weekends/holidays late April-July, daily August-early November)
• Journey time: 90 minutes
• Cost: 2250 yen

From Kaminoyama Onsen Station:

• Two buses per day (outside winter)
• Journey time: 1 hour
• Free of charge

From Shiroishi Zao Station:

• One daily bus (weekends/holidays, late April-early November)
• Journey time: 1.5 hours
• Cost: 1960 yen

By Ropeway and Hiking

• Take Zao Ropeway from Zao Onsen to upper station
• Hike about 45 minutes to Mount Zao summit
• Additional 45 minutes to Okama Crater viewing area

Details

Hours	The tour is not available from early November to late April every year due to the winter closure of the Zao Echo Line and High Line.
Admission	Zao High Line tolls will be charged.
Phone	+81 224-34-2725
Address	Miyagi Zao National Park
Resources	https://www.zao-machi.com/sightseeing_spot/1.html