Zao Onsen

Zao Onsen (蔵王温泉) is a popular hot spring resort located in the northeastern part of Yamagata and Miyagi prefectures, Japan. It is situated at the foot of Mount Zao, an active volcano that has a beautiful natural landscape and is known for its famous “snow monsters” or “juhyo” that form during the winter season.

The hot springs in Zao Onsen are known for their healing properties and have been a popular destination for travelers for centuries. The area boasts various types of hot springs, including sulfur, acid, simple, and hydrogen carbonate springs. There are many traditional Japanese inns or “ryokans,” as well as hotels, that offer hot spring baths, traditional Japanese meals, and a relaxing atmosphere for visitors.

In addition to the hot springs, there are many outdoor activities to enjoy in Zao Onsen, including skiing and snowboarding during the winter season and hiking and nature walks during the warmer months. The Zao Ropeway, a cable car that takes visitors up to the peak of Mount Zao, offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular attraction year-round.

Getting there

From Tokyo

By Train and Bus

• Take the JR Yamagata Shinkansen from Tokyo to Yamagata Station (2.5 hours)
• Transfer to a bus to Zao Onsen (40 minutes, 1200 yen)

By Overnight Bus (Winter Only)

• Direct overnight bus from Busta Shinjuku to Zao Onsen
• Journey time: About 8 hours
• Cost: 4500 to 8000 yen

From Sendai

By Train and Bus

• Take the JR Senzan Line from Sendai to Yamagata (70-90 minutes)
• Transfer to a bus to Zao Onsen (40 minutes, 1200 yen)

By Direct Bus (Winter Only)

• One round trip per day
• Journey time: 100 minutes
• Cost: 2000 yen

From Yamagata Station

• Regular buses to Zao Onsen (40 minutes, 1000 yen for adults)
• Buses run about once per hour

Zao Dai-Rotemburo

Hours	Weekdays / 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM) Weekends and holidays / 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (last admission 5:30 PM) Open season without snowfall.
Admission	Adults: 800 yen Children: 400 yen
Phone	+81 23-694-9417
Address	853-3 Zaoonsen, Yamagata, 990-2301
Official Website	https://www.jupeer-zao.com/roten/

Kamiyu Public Bath

Hours	6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Admission	200 yen
Phone	+81 23-694-9328
Address	30-2 Zaoonsen, Yamagata, 990-2301

Shimoyu Public Bath

Hours	6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Admission	200 yen
Address	30-2 Zaoonsen, Yamagata, 990-2301

Kawarayu Public Bath

Hours	6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Admission	200 yen
Phone	+81 23-694-9005
Address	43-3 Zaoonsen, Yamagata, 990-2301

Shinzaemon no Yu

Hours	10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Reception closes at 5:30 PM.
Admission	Adults: 1,000 yen Children: 400 yen
Phone	+81 23-693-1212
Address	905, Kawamae, Yamagata Prefecture
Official Website	https://zaospa.co.jp/