Mount Zao

★ 4.6 (1K+ reviews) • 1K+ booked
Overview
Things to do
Hotels

Mount Zao Tickets & Tours

Winter wonderland in the Northeast|Ginzan Hot Springs, Zao Ice Trees, Fox Village, Onihira Edo-chu 2-day tour (including breakfast and dinner at the hot spring hotel)|Depart from Tokyo
Fall deal
€ 207.25
Sale 40% off
Miyagi Zao Okama Crater & Fox Village Day Trip (From Sendai)
Tours • From Sendai

Miyagi Zao Okama Crater & Fox Village Day Trip (From Sendai)

Private tour
English guided
Free cancellation
4.8 / 5
(8) • 50+ booked
€ 138.95
Ginzan Onsen + Yamagata Winery + Zao Ropeway + Mogami River Snow Viewing Boat 2-Day Tour (Hot spring hotel with 2 meals)
Tours • From Tokyo

Ginzan Onsen + Yamagata Winery + Zao Ropeway + Mogami River Snow Viewing Boat 2-Day Tour (Hot spring hotel with 2 meals)

English guided
Free cancellation
4.3 / 5
(18) • 200+ booked
€ 254.19
Zao Onsen Ski Resort | Ski Equipment Rental
Outdoor & sports activities • Yamagata

Zao Onsen Ski Resort | Ski Equipment Rental

Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
4.5 / 5
(50) • 1K+ booked
€ 27.59
Sale 5% off
Private English and Chinese ski lessons and photography services at Zao Onsen Ski Resort
Fall deal
Klook's choice
Outdoor & sports activities • Yamagata (From Katta)

Private English and Chinese ski lessons and photography services at Zao Onsen Ski Resort

Morning departure
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
5.0 / 5
(52) • 300+ booked
From
€ 267.85
Sale 15% off
Sendai Zao Snow Monsters & Ginzan Onsen Day Tour
Tours • From Sendai

Sendai Zao Snow Monsters & Ginzan Onsen Day Tour

Private tour
English guided
Free cancellation
4.8 / 5
(51) • 1K+ booked
€ 110.90
Zao Onsen Ski Lesson with Gear / Chinese Private Group (1-4)
Outdoor & sports activities • Yamagata

Zao Onsen Ski Lesson with Gear / Chinese Private Group (1-4)

Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
4.2 / 5
(5) • 100+ booked
€ 304.25
Tohoku Japan Day Tour: Miyagi Zao Snow Monster Vehicle, Kinja Suijinja Shrine for Financial Luck, Akiu Great Falls (Departing from Sendai)
€ 156.85
Sale 20% off
Zao Snow Monster Trees Illumination Tour from Sendai Station
Tours • From Sendai

Zao Snow Monster Trees Illumination Tour from Sendai Station

Small group
Afternoon departure
Free cancellation
€ 235.29
Zao Okama & Choro Lake 2-Day Autumn Small Group Tour
Tours • From Sendai

Zao Okama & Choro Lake 2-Day Autumn Small Group Tour

English guided
Free cancellation
New Activity
€ 223.19
Sale 20% off

Where to stay in Mount Zao

Gokan no Yu Tsuruya
Hotels • Yamagata

Gokan no Yu Tsuruya

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(250)
From
€ 153.06
Takamiya Ryokan Miyamaso
Hotels • Yamagata

Takamiya Ryokan Miyamaso

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(98)
From
€ 228.9
Omiya Ryokan
Hotels • Yamagata

Omiya Ryokan

Instant confirmation
4.6 / 5
(167)
From
€ 103.83
Zao Onsen Zao Shiki No Hotel
Hotels • Yamagata

Zao Onsen Zao Shiki No Hotel

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(184)
From
€ 115.97
Takamiya Hotel Jurin
Hotels • Yamagata

Takamiya Hotel Jurin

Instant confirmation
4.3 / 5
(25)
From
€ 208
€ 210.33
Meitoya So
Hotels • Yamagata

Meitoya So

Instant confirmation
4.2 / 5
(82)
From
€ 115.1
Hotel Lucent Takamiya
Hotels • Yamagata

Hotel Lucent Takamiya

Instant confirmation
4.5 / 5
(58)
From
€ 104.38
Zao International Hotel
Hotels • Yamagata

Zao International Hotel

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(79)
From
€ 169.36
Takamiya Hotel Hammond
Hotels • Yamagata

Takamiya Hotel Hammond

Instant confirmation
4.2 / 5
(78)
From
€ 56.29
Le Vert Zao
Hotels • Yamagata

Le Vert Zao

Instant confirmation
3.8 / 5
(30)
From
€ 117.39
Wakamatsuya
Hotels • Yamagata

Wakamatsuya

Instant confirmation
4.8 / 5
(40)
From
€ 258.85
Takamiya Hotel Rurikura Resort
Hotels • Yamagata

Takamiya Hotel Rurikura Resort

Instant confirmation
From
€ 115.46

Mount Zao Reviews

sam ***
2026-05-22 08:10:52
Fantastic 5.0
it was a pity we can't see the crater due to the weather. guides were very helpful
SHYAN *******
2026-03-25 08:56:32
Fantastic 5.0
Highly recommended for Mandarin-speaking as the place is run by Taiwanese. They were very helpful & patient with guidance for us group of beginner skiers.
Klook User
2026-03-17 23:45:30
Fantastic 5.0
Coach Vincent was very friendly and incredibly patient. He was excellent at guiding me, a beginner who hadn't skied in 20 years, constantly reminding and encouraging me. This allowed me to quickly regain my feel for skiing and even make some progress. Thank you, Coach! Awesome!!

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FAQs about Mount Zao

When is the best time to visit Mount Zao Yamagata for skiing?

What are the best months for hiking at Mount Zao Yamagata?

How can I get to Mount Zao Yamagata from Yamagata City?

What should I wear when visiting Mount Zao Yamagata in winter?

How can I reach Zao Onsen from Tokyo?

What local cuisine should I try at Mount Zao Yamagata?

When is the best time to see the 'snow monsters' at Mount Zao Yamagata?

What are the transportation options to reach Mount Zao Yamagata?

What should I bring for a summer visit to Mount Zao Yamagata?

What to know about Mount Zao

Welcome to the majestic Zaō Mountains, also known as Mount Zaō, a captivating cluster of stratovolcanoes nestled on the border between Yamagata and Miyagi Prefectures in Japan. This enchanting destination boasts a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural heritage, outdoor adventures, and ancient traditions that will leave you in awe. With its towering peaks, legendary hot springs, and iconic volcanic mountain, Mount Zaō beckons travelers to explore its snow-covered slopes, immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the region, and indulge in the therapeutic waters of Zao Onsen.
Mount Zaō, Zaoonsen, Yamagata, 990-2301, Japan

Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Okama Crater Lake

Discover the mesmerizing Okama Crater Lake, also known as the Five Color Pond, which changes hues based on the weather. This stunning crater lake, formed by a volcanic eruption, is a must-visit attraction offering a picturesque setting for visitors.

Frost-Covered Trees

Experience the surreal beauty of the frost-covered trees, known as juhyō, that create a ghostly forest during the winter months. Witness the magical transformation of trees covered in ice formations, creating a unique and captivating landscape.

Zao Ski Resort

Experience some of the highest annual snowfall in the world at Zao Ski Resort, where you can ski, snowboard, and witness the enchanting Zao Snow Monsters in the peak winter months. With 14 slopes, 12 courses, and stunning night skiing options, Zao Ski Resort is a must-visit for winter sports enthusiasts. After a fun day of skiing, relax and unwind with hot spring waters from Zao Onsen.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The Zaō Mountains hold cultural and historical significance, with the Goshiki-dake lava domes and tuff cone showcasing the volcanic heritage of the region. Explore the rich history of the area through its volcanic formations and landmarks.

Local Cuisine

Indulge in the flavors of Yamagata and Miyagi Prefectures with popular local dishes such as Zunda Mochi, Yonezawa Beef, Sasakama, hearty ramen, fresh seafood, and seasonal delicacies. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the unique culinary delights of the region.

Culture and History

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Mount Zao Yamagata, with traditional Japanese architecture and historical landmarks waiting to be discovered.