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Zao Onsen

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Zao Onsen

The ancient hot springs with a history of over 1,900 years.

4.07 2

Last update :
Supervised by :  Zao Onsen Tourism Association

Natural hot springs in Zao Onsen are said to have opened in 110 A.D. The strong acidic sulfur spring is known as the “Springs of Beauty” for its effects of sterilizing and strengthening the skin. Zao Onsen boasts an abundance of hot water with 8,700 tons per day from 47 sources, and there are three public bathhouses, four footbaths, and five day-spa facilities scattered in the hot spring town.

Zao Onsen Large Open-air bath, where the hot spring water flows directly from the source, is one of the most popular spots. You can soak in the sulfur-scented cloudy hot spring water while listening to the river murmur. Unlike most Japanese-style baths, there is no washing area, so remove dirt by pouring hot spring water on your body before entering the tub. Note that the spa is closed during the winter.

It is also well-known as a snow resort for its abundant and fine powder snow, attracting many tourists from overseas. The snow-covered and ice-covered trees are also famous. From spring to autumn, trekking is popular, and after enjoying forest bathing, you can refresh your body and soul in a hot spring bath.

Highlights

  • There is a shopping area with the warmth of trees.
  • You can enjoy visiting several day spas or footbaths.
  • Zao Onsen Big Open-air Spa can accommodate up to 200 people at once!
  • Many people visit here during the winter season to ski or see the ice-covered trees.

Photos

  • The good-old scenery still remains.

    The good-old scenery still remains.

  • It used to be called Mogami-Takayu or Takayu.

    It used to be called Mogami-Takayu or Takayu.

  • Enjoy visiting a variety of footbaths.

    Enjoy visiting a variety of footbaths.

  • Since The Big Open-air Spa is so popular, it’s best to go early in the morning.

    Since The Big Open-air Spa is so popular, it’s best to go early in the morning.

  • Sukawa Onsen Shrine is located on a hill, you can go up the stone steps to pray.

    Sukawa Onsen Shrine is located on a hill, you can go up the stone steps to pray.

Reviews

2

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • Wai Wai Wim

    Zao Ski Resort gets really crowded in winter, which is also the peak travel season here.

  • 吳振宇

    The snow monsters at Zao in winter create a really unique and stunning landscape.

Details

Name in Japanese
蔵王温泉
Postal Code
990-2301
Address
Zao Onsen, Yamagata City, Yamagata
Telephone
023-694-9328 (Zao Onsen Tourism Association)
Holidays
Depend on facilities (The Big Open-air Spa is closed from mid-November to mid-April)
Hours
Depend on facilities (The Big Open-air Spa 9:30am - 5:00pm)
Admission
Depend on facilities (The Big Open-air Spa: Age 12 and up 800 yen, Age 1 to 11 400 yen)
Directions
1) From JR Yamagata Station, take the Yanako Bus to “Zao Onsen” bus stop.
2) A 35-minute drive from Yamagata Zao IC on the Yamagata Expressway.
Credit Cards
Depend on facilities (Not accepted at The Big Open-air Spa)
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)
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