Zao Onsen: Everything You Need Before Visiting

Overview

Things to do

Hotels

5.0 /5

88K+ reviews

Read all reviews

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

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.

397K+ visitors

3K+ visitors

9K+ visitors

410K+ visitors

3M+ visitors

Narita International Airport

3M+ visitors

Kansai International Airport

4M+ visitors

Is Zao Onsen good for beginners?

When to visit Zao Onsen?

Is Zao Onsen tattoo-friendly?

What are the snow monsters at Zao Onsen?

How to get to Zao Onsen?

Zao Onsen is a charming hot spring town, set 880 meters high on the slopes of Mount Zao in Yamagata Prefecture. In the winter, it turns into one of Japan's top ski resorts. You can hit the awesome ski slopes and see the famous zao snow monsters—trees covered with frost that make the place look like a magical winter wonderland. But there's more to enjoy! After a fun day skiing, you can relax in one of Zao’s hot springs. You can't also miss a ride on the Zao Ropeway, which takes you to the top of the mountain. From there, you can see the stunning snow monsters up close and take great photos. With cozy traditional inns, gorgeous scenery, and exciting winter sports, Zao Onsen is a place you won't want to miss. Come explore the magic for yourself!

Zao Onsen, Zaoonsen, Yamagata, 990-2301, Japan

Best Public Bathhouses in Zao Onsen

Zao Dai-Rotemburo (Zao Large Outdoor Baths)

Zao Dai-Rotemburo is a great bathhouse where you can enjoy soaking in hot water while surrounded by beautiful mountains. It's open from December to March, and it's especially amazing when it's snowing. The water is full of minerals that are great for your skin and health.

Shinzaemon no Yu

Shinzaemon no Yu is a great place to go if you want to feel relaxed and refreshed. It has both indoor and outdoor baths with beautiful views. After a day of skiing, the warm, mineral-rich water here is perfect for easing tired muscles.

Kawarayu Public Bath

Step into history at Kawarayu Public Bath, one of Zao Onsen's oldest bathhouses. This traditional place has been hosting visitors for many years with its healing hot springs. The cozy and authentic atmosphere makes it a special spot to soak away stress.

Shimoyu Public Bath

If you want a quiet and peaceful place to relax, Shimoyu Public Bath is perfect. It offers simple but inviting surroundings, and the mineral-rich water can help with joint pain and more. Especially in the colder months, it's a wonderful place to unwind and recharge.

Kamiyu Public Bath

Located in the heart of Zao Onsen Village, Kamiyu Public Bath provides a traditional onsen experience with wooden interiors. It's a local favorite that lets you enjoy the true charm of Japanese hot springs.

Things to Do in Zao Onsen

Ski and Snowboard at Zao Onsen Ski Resort

Zao Onsen Ski Resort is famous for its fantastic ski slopes and the mysterious snow monsters---trees covered in frost and snow. Whether you're an intermediate skier or an expert tackling the Yokokura Wall, there's a challenge waiting for you at the ski slope. Night skiing adds an adventurous twist as you glide down the illuminated slopes.

Ride the Zao Ropeway

For an amazing view, take the Zao Ropeway to the top of Mount Zao. This cable car ride gives you a great look at snowy mountains or colorful autumn leaves. It's also great for snapping photos, giving you a perfect look at Zao's beauty from above.

Explore Zao Onsen Village

Walk through the charming streets of Zao Onsen Village, full of souvenir shops and traditional Japanese inns. It's a great place for a stroll to see local culture and pick up unique gifts. You can also enjoy the tasty local foods and the friendly atmosphere in this historic town.

See the Famous Snow Monsters

The snow monsters of Zao Onsen are a must-see! These amazing frost-covered trees look magical, especially when viewed from ski slopes or the Zao Ropeway. The best time to see them is mid-February. Try stopping at the best lookout points to snap incredible photos.

Zao Onsen

Zao Onsen Reviews

Popular places near Zao Onsen

FAQs about Zao Onsen