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Zao Onsen

★ 5.0 (88K+ reviews) • 397K+ booked
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Zao Onsen Reviews

5.0 /5
88K+ reviews
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Klook用戶
3 Mar
The instructor is Taiwanese and proactively contacted me before departure, clearly telling me our meeting point. The instructor taught very well, and I improved rapidly. This experience was very enjoyable.
Diana *
27 Feb
easy online booking on same day, got the tickets from a machine using qr code, no issues are problems
1+
Jimmy *
23 Feb
A Seamless Experience ​It cannot be more easier than this. You value efficiency and "no-nonsense" systems. My experience booking lift tickets for Zao Onsen was exactly that—precise, digital, and completely friction-free. ​The online portal is remarkably intuitive. Unlike many older Japanese resort websites, Zao has modernized its interface for international travelers. You simply select your dates, choose from multi-day or flexible "points" tickets, and pay via a secure gateway. The immediate delivery of a QR code to your email eliminates the need for any paper printouts, which is a relief when you're traveling light. ​The real "magic" happens at the base of the mountain. Instead of standing in a long, chilly queue at the ticket window, you head straight to the automated SKIDATA kiosks. You scan your phone, and the machine dispenses your IC lift card in less than thirty seconds.
黃 **
14 Feb
The location is amazing! The hotel is right across from the Zao Sanroku Station. The onsen is amazing! Guests can choose a private bath once, and enjoy it for fifty minutes. The meals are amazing! Breakfast and dinner are in private rooms, enjoying Kaiseki cuisine. It's close to the hot spring street and the Sanroku Station.
Wong ********
13 Feb
Picking up and returning the equipment was very convenient, as the location is inside the ski resort near lift number 7. The staff were friendly and helpful, guiding us through the entire process. The equipment was also very clean and in excellent condition.
Wong ********
13 Feb
The entire rental process was very smooth. The staff was efficient and friendly, and even helped check if the gear fit properly. The equipment was very new and clean. The pickup location was also very convenient, right inside the ski resort. The only downside was the early return time, requiring us to return by 5 PM. The store also provided space for us to store non-valuable items.
Chen ********
7 Feb
Located on the first floor of our accommodation for two days of skiing, it's very convenient! Taiwanese-run shop, so Chinese is no problem. The staff is meticulous and patient. The first time, it's best to allow at least an hour to get equipped so you're not rushed. We happened to have a large group, and the staff enthusiastically helped us speed up the process. A highly recommended shop! Zao Ski Resort is Taiwan-friendly. Experience: Fully equipped, and there are also many instructors available.
Klook 用戶
5 Feb
Protective gear comes in different sizes to choose from, which is great 👍👍👍👍👍 but we didn't really need it for snowboarding this time.

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What to know about Zao Onsen

At Zao Onsen in Yamagata Prefecture, you can experience one of Japan’s most famous onsen ski resorts, where exciting skiing meets relaxing natural hot springs. Located in the mountains near Yamagata Station, this charming Japanese village welcomes you with snowy slopes, cozy rooms, and steaming springs that help you unwind after a day on the piste. In winter, you’ll love exploring the Zao Onsen Ski Resort, a ski area perfect for beginners, intermediate skiers, and advanced skiers alike. Ride the gondola up the mountain to see the famous snow monsters—frozen trees covered in ice and snow that create one of the most spectacular sights in Japan. After, you can soak in the public bathhouses or onsen to relax your body and refresh your skin. Whether you visit in early December or stay through April, Zao Onsen gives a peaceful resort getaway where you can ski, enjoy local restaurants, and experience the best of Yamagata’s hot springs, snow, and warm hospitality. Book your Zao Onsen tours now on Klook!
Zao Onsen, Zaoonsen, Yamagata, 990-2301, Japan

Things to Do in Zao Onsen

See the Famous Snow Monsters

In Zao Onsen, Yamagata, you can see the incredible snow monsters, or juhyo, that cover the mountain trees in thick layers of ice and snow. These shapes form naturally from strong winds and freezing temperatures. Ride the gondola to the summit at night to see them glowing under colorful lights, a spectacular winter sight you won't forget.

Relax in Zao Onsen's Natural Hot Springs

After a day on the slopes, you can soak in Zao Onsen's famous natural hot springs, known for their sulphur-rich therapeutic waters. Try one of the public bathhouses or outdoor baths, where you can relax while surrounded by mountains and snow. The minerals in the onsen are said to refresh your skin and relieve tired muscles.

Go Skiing and Snowboarding at Zao Onsen Ski Resort

You'll love skiing at Zao Onsen Ski Resort, one of Japan's oldest and most scenic ski areas. The resort has all kinds of slopes for beginners, intermediate skiers, and even advanced skiers. There are lifts and ropeways that take you across the mountain, so you can enjoy different courses and beautiful views of Yamagata Prefecture.

Explore the Traditional Town of Zao Onsen

Take a walk through Zao Onsen's charming village, where you'll find small restaurants, souvenir shops, and cozy guesthouses. You can also visit public bathhouses that have been around for centuries. Try some Japanese comfort food like ramen or hot pot to warm up after a day in the snow.

Ride the Ropeways for Stunning Views

Hop on one of Zao Onsen's ropeways or the gondola to reach the top of the mountain. From there, you'll see sweeping views of the Yamagata mountains, especially beautiful when they're covered in snow. If you visit in summer, you can still take the ride to enjoy natural greenery, fresh air, and peaceful hiking trails.

Visit the Zao Onsen Dai-Rotemburo

Don't miss the Zao Onsen Dai-Rotemburo, a large outdoor onsen surrounded by nature. You can enjoy soaking in the steaming springs while listening to the sound of the river nearby. It's one of the best spots in Zao to experience the healing power of hot springs in a truly Japanese setting.

Popular Attractions Near Zao Onsen

Mount Zao

Mount Zao is a stunning volcanic mountain located just a short 15-minute drive from Zao Onsen. Here, you can ride the gondola to the summit, hike along scenic trails, or visit the beautiful Okama Crater Lake, known for its bright green water.

Kuriyama Park

Kuriyama Park is a peaceful green space located about 15 minutes by bus from Zao Onsen. Here, you can take a relaxing walk through quiet paths, see colorful flowers in spring, and enjoy the beautiful mountain views of Yamagata Prefecture.

Ginzan Onsen

Ginzan Onsen is a beautiful hot spring village about 1.5 hours from Zao Onsen. You can stroll along its wooden inns, soak in public bathhouses, and enjoy the warm glow of gas lamps at night---making it one of Japan's most romantic onsen towns.

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