[Yamagata, Zao] Summer is the perfect time to visit Zao! A guide to enjoying hot springs, stunning scenery, and gourmet food in this Takaharu resort.

2026.07.31

Zao in Yamagata Prefecture is famous for its frost-covered trees in winter, but in summer it transforms into a comfortable summer resort at an altitude of 900m. We'll introduce the charms of the green season in an easy-to-understand way, from activities such as scenic ropeways and trekking, to refreshing hot springs that are especially enjoyable in summer, and exquisite gourmet food in the hot spring town.

• Table of Contents
• Zao Zao , one of Japan's most famous hot springs: The allure of highly acidic sulfur springs
• It's not just about skiing in winter! Enjoy outdoor and nature experiences in spring, summer, and autumn.
• Stroll through the retro streets! Takayu Street, a hot spring town where you can find local specialties and souvenirs.
• From Zao famous Genghis Khan (grilled lamb) to long-established sushi restaurants! Yamagata's finest dinners and lunches.
• Access information to Zao
• Zao Onsen: A famous Zao that can be enjoyed throughout the four seasons.

Zao Zao , one of Japan's most famous hot springs: The allure of highly acidic sulfur springs

Located at an altitude of approximately 900m, Zao Zao in Yamagata Prefecture is a renowned hot spring with a history of about 1900 years. Its highly acidic sulfur spring, with a pH of around 1.3—a rarity in Japan—gently removes old dead skin cells and sebum while promoting blood circulation, earning it the nicknames "beauty spring" and "soap-free spring." Designated as a People's Health Resort Spring in 1958, it boasts an abundant flow rate of 5,900 liters per minute.

Furthermore, Zao is appealing because you can enjoy a refreshing bath even during the hot season, making it perfect for washing away sweat after trekking or hiking. The ability to enjoy high-quality hot springs and outdoor activities at the same time is one of the unique pleasures of Zao.

It's not just about skiing in winter! Enjoy outdoor and nature experiences in spring, summer, and autumn.

When you hear the Zao, many people might picture the "snow monsters," or frost-covered trees. However, from spring through summer and into autumn, after the snow melts, Zao is a perfect season to fully enjoy the lush greenery, Takayama plants, and the refreshing climate unique to a summer resort. Here are three recommended outdoor experiences that you should definitely try during the green season.

Heading to the mysterious "Dokko Marsh"! Takaharu trekking enjoyable for beginners.

Accessible via the Zao Central Ropeway, Zao Central Takaharu is a popular spot representing the green season, offering cool temperatures even in midsummer. Located at an altitude of 1,300m, the temperature is about 10 degrees Celsius lower than in the lowlands, making it a comfortable place to enjoy hiking.

There are three main courses.

・Dokko Marsh Course (approx. 40 minutes)

- Fudo Falls Course (approximately 60 minutes from Dokko Marsh)

• Trekking course (estimated time: 2-2.5 hours)

The "trekking course," highly recommended as the main attraction of your trip, allows you to experience a sense of adventure amidst abundant nature. Starting from Torikabuto Station, you can explore the lush natural surroundings, visiting places like Katagai Marsh, Utsubo Marsh, Goro-dake Observatory, and Dokko Marsh, completing the circuit in about 2 to 2.5 hours at an adult's pace.

Dokko Marsh, the final destination on any route, is a mystical spot that changes its appearance from blue to green to emerald green depending on the light. On windless days, the water's surface reflects the surrounding trees like a mirror, creating a beauty that will make you stop and admire it.

Additionally, a new mountain bike course will be added to a portion of the central slope starting in June 2026. You can bring your own mountain bike or rent one on-site, making it easy for beginners to advanced riders to enjoy an exhilarating ride.

Check out the details of the mountain bike course.

Furthermore, within the Torikabuto Station premises, there is a cafe named "SORAMADO cafe 1387-ISAHANA," after the station's altitude, and it has an attached wooden deck called the "Frost Terrace." After trekking or mountain biking, why not spend some peaceful time at the cafe while enjoying the beautiful scenery?

Enjoy breathtaking views of Yamagata range and cityscape! Take an exhilarating aerial stroll on the Zao Ropeway.

Of the three ropeways in Zao, the Zao Ropeway offers stunning views and the freedom to enjoy your time as you please. From the starting point, Zao Sanroku Station, to the final stop, Jizo Sancho Station, you can enjoy an aerial stroll of approximately 17 minutes.

From the train window, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Zao town, the Yamagata Basin, and beyond that, the Asahi and Azuma Yamagata ranges. As you ascend, the range of scenery and the types of plants you see change, making the aerial journey itself a truly special experience.

However, the temperature at Jizo-sancho Station, located at an altitude of 1,661m, is about 10 degrees Celsius lower than in the hot spring town. Even in midsummer, it can feel chilly, so it's a good idea to bring some warm clothing, such as a light jacket.

At the ropeway transfer station, Juhyo Takaharu Station, there is the "Million-Person Terrace," where you can enjoy panoramic views of the mountain range and the city. You can spend your time as you please, whether it's admiring the scenery in the crisp air, reading, taking photos, or strolling around the area.

Because it's easily accessible by ropeway, even those with young children or seniors who might find serious trekking difficult can fully enjoy the magnificent nature unique to Zao.

Be amazed by the starry sky and night view! Limited-time nighttime ropeway service.

To fully enjoy Zao in the summer, be sure to check out the ropeway that operates at night. A limited-time night cruising plan is available, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful night view of Yamagata city and a sky full of stars at the same time.

From the mountaintop terrace, you can enjoy the panoramic night view, and you can also have the special experience of relaxing in a hammock on the "Million-Person Terrace" and gazing at the starry sky.

Check out this year's night cruising information.

Zao Ropeway

229-3 Zao Onsen, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture 990-2301

You can enjoy the magnificent nature of Zao throughout the four seasons.

Stroll through the retro streets! Takayu Street, a hot spring town where you can find local specialties and souvenirs.

Zao offers breathtaking views of the Takaharu during the day and captivating starry skies at night. Amidst this magnificent natural beauty, one place you'll definitely want to visit is the charming hot spring town, which exudes a nostalgic atmosphere.

How to walk along Takayu Street

Zao Street is the main street of the Zao Onsen hot spring resort area. Along the way, you'll find restaurants, souvenir shops, and day-trip hot spring bathing spots, creating a charming atmosphere just by walking along.

Climbing the gentle slope, you'll reach the approach to the Sukawa Onsen Shrine. 229 stone steps stretch out before you, creating a tranquil atmosphere that seems to watch over the hot spring town. It's a perfect spot for a quiet evening stroll or a short walk after visiting a bathhouse.

Right in the heart of Takayu Street is the Shimoyu Public Bathhouse, which features free-flowing hot spring water. Anyone can easily enjoy a relaxing soak by simply putting 300 yen into the payment box.

In addition, there are free hand baths and foot baths outside the building, allowing you to easily enjoy the hot springs. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the emerald green surface of the Sukawa River that flows around the hot spring town, the rising white steam, and the scent of sulfur with all your senses.

Enjoy "Iga Mochi," a traditional local wagashi (Japanese confectionery) with a 100-year history! Visit the long-established wagashi shop, "Ogiya."

One of the must-try local delicacies in Zao is "Iga Mochi (Inahana Mochi)," a local specialty that has been made in the hot spring town for over 100 years. These bite-sized rice cakes are made with glutinous rice dough wrapped around sweet bean paste and placed on a bamboo leaf, making them perfect for eating on the go or as a souvenir.

Located on Takayu Street, "Inahana Mochi no Sato - Yunohana Manufacturing and Sales Ogiya" offers iga mochi with a chewy, elastic texture and a subtly salty red bean paste filling that's irresistibly delicious. It's a Japanese sweet that's perfect for enjoying after a day of hot springs or a stroll.

In front of the shop is a "steam terrace" where you can enjoy your meal while watching the steam rise from the hot springs. During peak season, they often sell out before evening, so if you want to be sure to enjoy it, it's best to visit by lunchtime.

Lodge Matsupokkuri / Inahana Mochi Village, Yunohana Manufacturin...

25 Zao Onsen, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture, 990-2301

This traditional Japanese confectionery shop has been in business for over 100 years. They manufacture and sell "Iga Mochi," a specialty of Zao, which is popular for eating on the go or as a souvenir.

Freshly made steamed buns and ice cream come together! A new kind of Japanese sweet from "Yunoka"

Located at the entrance to Takayu Street, "Yunoka" is a popular shop known for its homemade Takayu manju (steamed buns). The hot spring manju are made with care and effort, with the dough kneaded from scratch.

Among the most popular items are the original sweets, "Manju Ice Cream" and "Manju Parfait."

The "Manju Ice Cream," topped with a whole Takayu Manju (steamed bun), has a unique appearance and is so cute you'll want to take a picture of it.

The "Manju Parfait" is a fusion of Japanese and Western styles, with vanilla and matcha ice cream, mochi balls, and whipped cream balanced perfectly in a glass. You can feel the shop's dedication in the chewy manju skin and the gentle sweetness of the red bean paste that pairs well with the ice cream.

From the counter seats inside the shop, you can enjoy a view of the Sugawa River, providing a refreshing coolness even on hot summer days. It's the perfect place to stop by when you want to cool down after a stroll or a hot spring tour.

Yunoka

Zao Onsen 973-7, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture, 990-2301

This Japanese confectionery shop manufactures and sells Takayu Manju (hot spring steamed buns). In addition to the classic hot spring steamed buns, they also offer sweets such as steamed bun ice cream and steamed bun parfaits. It's a popular stop for those strolling around the hot spring town.

From Zao famous Genghis Khan (grilled lamb) to long-established sushi restaurants! Yamagata's finest dinners and lunches.

Refresh yourself in the Takaharu, soak up the sweat in the hot springs, and take a leisurely stroll through the hot spring town. An essential way to conclude such a Zao trip is to enjoy the unique cuisine of Yamagata. The Zao area is home to many excellent restaurants that utilize local ingredients, including the original "Jingisukan" (grilled lamb).

"Casher" is a renowned restaurant where you can enjoy Zao famous Genghis Khan (grilled lamb) and handmade soba noodles.

If you want to enjoy a lunch or dinner unique to Zao, you can't miss "Kashel," located close to the hot spring town. Many people visit for its handmade soba noodles at lunchtime and for its Genghis Khan (grilled lamb) in the evening.

The restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere where everyone can relax and feel at ease. Even if you're trying Jingisukan (Mongolian barbecue) for the first time, the staff will kindly teach you how to grill it properly and recommend ways to eat it, so you can relax and enjoy your meal.

Our signature dish, Jingisukan (grilled lamb), is a delightful combination of flavorful lamb and vegetables. Our original sweet special sauce enhances the deliciousness of the ingredients, making it an irresistible dish.

The limited-quantity soba noodles are made with "Mogami Wase," a brand of buckwheat flour from Yamagata Prefecture known for its rich flavor and sweetness. With a firm texture yet a light mouthfeel, it's a dish best enjoyed simply as "mori soba" (cold soba noodles). This renowned restaurant, representing the cuisine of Zao, offers the luxurious experience of enjoying both fragrant soba noodles and piping hot Jingisukan (grilled lamb) from lunchtime onwards.

Kasheru

ZaoOnsen 196, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture, 990-2301

This restaurant serves handmade soba noodles and Jingisukan (grilled lamb). Soba is served during the day, while Jingisukan is the main dish in the evening. Their Jingisukan, made with their original special sauce, is particularly popular.

"Kiraku Sushi," a beloved, long-established sushi restaurant in a hot spring town, welcomes you with the owner and his wife.

Founded in 1964, Kiraku Sushi is a long-established sushi restaurant that has been loved in the Zao resort area for many years. It is open from evening until late at night, making it perfect for dinner after enjoying the hot springs and sightseeing.

Despite being a long-established restaurant, the atmosphere inside is unpretentious, and one of its charms is that you can enjoy your meal while chatting with the chef and his wife. The sushi served is characterized by its large portions of toppings, and you can enjoy fresh seafood sourced from Shiogama, Miyagi Prefecture, one of Japan's leading port towns.

Also recommended to enjoy with sushi are Yamagata's local dishes, "Karakara-jiru" and "Dashi." Karakara-jiru is a bowl of soup based on pork miso soup with added sake lees, chili peppers, and taro stems, and its spicy kick is perfect for whetting your appetite. Dashi, a popular home-style dish in Yamagata, is made by chopping up cucumbers and Japanese ginger and mixing them with seasoning. It's a refreshing dish with a light flavor.

Since seating is limited, we recommend making a reservation in advance.

Kiraku Sushi

Zao 954-7, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture, 990-2301

This long-established sushi restaurant was founded in 1964. In addition to sushi made with seafood sourced from Miyagi Prefecture, they also offer dishes using home-grown vegetables, wild plants, and mushrooms. You can also enjoy Yamagata's local dishes such as "karakara-jiru" and "dashi," and the menu is characterized by its use of local ingredients.

Access information to Zao

When using trains and buses (public transportation)

root	How to access
From Tokyo to Yamagata Station (Yamagata Shinkansen route)	Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes from Tokyo by Yamagata Shinkansen "Tsubasa" train.
From Sendai to Yamagata Station (JR or highway bus route)	It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes by JR Senzan Line, or about 70 minutes by express bus ( Miyagi Kotsu/ Yamagata Kotsu) departing from Sendai Station.
From Yamagata Station to Zao	Take a local bus (Yamagata Kotsu) for approximately 40 minutes one way (get off at "Zao Bus Terminal").

*Please check the official websites of each public transportation provider for the latest information on fares and schedules.

When using a car (rental car or personal car)

root	How to access
From Tokyo to Zao	The route is approximately 360-390 km and takes about 4 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours, via the Metropolitan Expressway Inner Circular Route, Tohoku(or Joban Expressway), etc.
From Yamagata Station to Zao	Approximately 17km, about 30 minutes using regular roads.
From Sendai Station to Zao	Approximately 75 km via the Yamagata Expressway, etc., approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.

[Getting Around] Zao Share Cycle: An Easy Way to Explore, Even on Hills

For getting around Zao, electric-assist shared bicycles (for a fee) are a convenient option! For details on port locations and how to use them, please see " Zao Shared Bicycle " (Yamagata City official website).
*Please note that service will be suspended from late November to April due to the winter season.
*Bicycles used within the Zao Onsen area can only be used within the Zao Onsen area. Please note that you will not be able to return the bicycle if you leave the designated area.

Zao Onsen: A famous Zao that can be enjoyed throughout the four seasons.

Zao is a Takaharu resort where you can enjoy nature, hot springs, and gourmet food throughout the four seasons. Enjoy breathtaking views from trekking or a ropeway ride, refresh yourself in the famous hot springs, and then savor local cuisine in the hot spring town. It's a highly recommended area where you can experience both Japanese nature and culture at once.