Zao Echo Line

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Zao Echo Line

A scenic mountain road that showcases the beauty of each season.

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The Zao Echo Line is a mountain road that traverses the Zao mountain range from east to west. It connects Zao Town in Miyagi Prefecture with Kamiyama City in Yamagata Prefecture and was opened in November 1962 (Showa 37). Spanning approximately 26km, this tourist road greets visitors with a different face for every season. However, it is closed from early November to late April due to winter conditions.

Spring features corridors of snow, summer showcases refreshing green foliage, and autumn offers brilliant shades of red and yellow foliage. The autumn foliage season, in particular, is especially popular. By the end of September, beech and maple trees lining both sides of the road begin to change colors starting from the mountain peaks, and by mid-October, they are at their most vibrant. The warm shades of red, yellow, and orange complemented by the green of coniferous trees create a tapestry reminiscent of a colorful carpet.

Due to the naturally vibrant artwork that nature paints, many tourists visit from far and wide, especially during the foliage season. If planning a trip during this time, expect heavy traffic. To enjoy a more pleasant drive, visiting early in the morning is recommended.

Highlights

  • Mountain road that crosses the Zao range from east to west.
  • Experience corridors of snow in spring, fresh greenery in summer, and vibrant autumn foliage.
  • Closed from early November to late April during the winter season.

Photos

  • The sides of the road dyed in autumn colors are popular during the foliage season.

    The sides of the road dyed in autumn colors are popular during the foliage season.

  • In late April, you can see walls of snow.

    In late April, you can see walls of snow.

  • The lush greenery that offers healing is also beautiful during the fresh green season.

    The lush greenery that offers healing is also beautiful during the fresh green season.

Reviews

1
  • 夏婉欣

    風光明媚的山嶽觀光公路~4月下旬至5月中旬可欣賞雪壁哦~每個季節都有美麗的風景。

Details

Name in Japanese
蔵王エコーライン
Address
Inside the national forest area at Kuraishi-dake, Togattaonsen, Zaomachi, Kattagun, Miyagi
Telephone
0224-34-2725(Zao Town tourist information center)
Holiday
Early November to late April of the following year
Business Hours
There may be night-time closures before and after the winter season (from 17:00 to 8:00).
Admission
Free
Access
About 30 minutes by car from the Tohoku Expressway Murata IC or Shiroishi IC (to the entrance of the Echo Line).
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)