Mount Zao

Natural landmark
★ 4.5 (800+ reviews) • 400+ booked
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.
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Mount Zaō, Zaoonsen, Yamagata, 990-2301, Japan

The best of Mount Zao

Bucket-list experiences

Zao Hot Spring in Yamagata, Tohoku, Japan|Private skiing lesson 3/6 hours

Zao Hot Spring in Yamagata, Tohoku, Japan|Private skiing lesson 3/6 hours

English guide
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
★ 4.4 (9) • 200+ booked
From ₱ 20,499
Zao Snow Wall & Cherry Blossom Viewing One Day Tour from Sendai

Zao Snow Wall & Cherry Blossom Viewing One Day Tour from Sendai

Free cancellation
★ 3.5 (2) • 50+ booked
₱ 6,918
Zao Snow Wall & Cherry Blossom 1DAY Bus tour with OhanamiExperience

Zao Snow Wall & Cherry Blossom 1DAY Bus tour with OhanamiExperience

English guide
Free cancellation
★ 5.0 (3) • 50+ booked
₱ 7,610
Zao Onsen Ski Resort Private Ski Lessons in Yamagata

Zao Onsen Ski Resort Private Ski Lessons in Yamagata

Morning departure
Free cancellation
₱ 30,748
Miyagi Zao Eboshi Resort Ski Equipment Rental in Miyagi
Summer Campaign

Miyagi Zao Eboshi Resort Ski Equipment Rental in Miyagi

Morning
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
₱ 4,612
Snow Trekking Experience in Yamagata
₱ 3,459

Make it a getaway

Zao International Hotel

Zao International Hotel

Instant confirmation
★ 4.4 (43)
From ₱ 11,008.6
Zao Onsen Zao Shiki No Hotel

Zao Onsen Zao Shiki No Hotel

Instant confirmation
★ 4.6 (113)
From ₱ 9,820.3
Meitoya So

Meitoya So

Instant confirmation
★ 4.1 (58)
From ₱ 7,374.7
Takamiya Hotel Jurin

Takamiya Hotel Jurin

Instant confirmation
★ 4.3 (23)
From ₱ 13,337.2
Omiya Ryokan

Omiya Ryokan

Instant confirmation
★ 4.5 (91)
From ₱ 7,839.6
Hotel Lucent Takamiya

Hotel Lucent Takamiya

Instant confirmation
★ 4.4 (49)
From ₱ 7,733.5
Takamiya Ryokan Miyamaso

Takamiya Ryokan Miyamaso

Instant confirmation
★ 4.7 (55)
From ₱ 15,660.0
Lodge Christmas Rose ZAO

Lodge Christmas Rose ZAO

Instant confirmation
★ 4.4 (25)
₱ 8,197.2
Zao Plaza Hotel

Zao Plaza Hotel

Instant confirmation
★ 4.5 (2)
From ₱ 7,089.5
Matsukaneya Annex

Matsukaneya Annex

Instant confirmation
From ₱ 11,442.2
G-SQUARE

G-SQUARE

Instant confirmation
₱ 7,253.5
Takamiya Hotel Rurikura Resort

Takamiya Hotel Rurikura Resort

Instant confirmation
From ₱ 10,424.9

More to explore

JAMJAM LINER Haneda Airport - Busta Shinjuku - Zao Onsen Shuttle Bus
₱ 2,460
₱ 2,614
Pension Swiss

Pension Swiss

Instant confirmation
From ₱ 6,065.7
Hotel Oakhill

Hotel Oakhill

Instant confirmation
₱ 15,904.6
Kinosato

Kinosato

Instant confirmation
★ 4.8 (4)
From ₱ 14,287.3
KKR Zao Shiroganeso

KKR Zao Shiroganeso

Instant confirmation
From ₱ 8,217.5
Le Vert Zao

Le Vert Zao

Instant confirmation
★ 3.5 (17)
From ₱ 11,468.9
Kokeshinoyado Shosenkaku

Kokeshinoyado Shosenkaku

Instant confirmation
₱ 5,316.8
Genghis Khan Lodge

Genghis Khan Lodge

Instant confirmation
★ 4.9 (14)
From ₱ 6,288.9
Wald Berg

Wald Berg

Instant confirmation
From ₱ 11,675.9
Gokan no Yu Tsuruya

Gokan no Yu Tsuruya

Instant confirmation
★ 4.6 (205)
From ₱ 9,225.0
Petit Resort Hotel Der Barte

Petit Resort Hotel Der Barte

Instant confirmation
★ 4.7 (17)
From ₱ 8,277.2
Oohira Hotel

Oohira Hotel

Instant confirmation
★ 4.0 (2)
From ₱ 7,277.3

Nearby places to go

7K+ visitors
2M+ visitors
400+ visitors
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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 before visiting Mount Zao

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.

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.