Zao Onsen × Recommended Hotel·Ryokan

A highland Property nestled in the serene forests and by the lakeside of Zao Onsen. The "Hanare-yu Hyakuhappo" offers a unique Zao Onsen experience with its sulfuric aroma and milky white waters welcoming you with a warm "welcome." Enjoy the open-air bath, indoor bath, and foot bath while taking in the breathtaking views of the Zao mountain range and Ryuzan. Savor exquisite dishes prepared to perfection using seasonal ingredients, including Yamagata beef, offering a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The renovated Rooms, such as the Junior Suite and Japanese-style Deluxe Twin, provide a luxurious space to unwind and rejuvenate from your travels. Surrounded by the nature of Zao, indulge in a refined and elegant moment.

Please enjoy the ultimate Onsen experience at Zao Kokusai Hotel with the skin-beautifying, milky-white free-flowing natural hot spring “Hachiemon-no-Yu,” as well as three private baths (additional fee applies).

A designer resort designed by the world-renowned architect, the late Kenzo Tange. Its distinctive exterior and arched restaurant create a true resort atmosphere. The views from the upper floors are exceptional. Enjoy local flavors of Zao cuisine and a relaxing getaway with healing time at Zao Onsen.

A long-established Ryokan with a history of around 300 years, watching over Zao Onsen through the ages. In the detached annex villa “HINA-KURA,” a traditional storehouse has been fully renovated into a private retreat, featuring an open-air bath in your Room with free-flowing hot spring water direct from the source. Enjoy an exclusive stay in a Room with a dignified presence shaped by history. Savor our own natural hot spring that continues to flow after centuries, along with beautifully presented mountain delicacies, and spend a refined holiday in a nostalgic space where traditional beauty and innovative design coexist.

A long-established Ryokan in the Zao Onsen town with a proud history of over 1,000 years. The retro interior, filled with Taisho-era charm, features tatami flooring throughout the building. Enjoy our private hot spring source, producing an abundant 720 liters per minute, along with carefully crafted dishes made with delicious local ingredients.

You can enjoy two types of baths: a strongly acidic, milky-white Onsen and a colorless, clear, mildly alkaline bath.Why not take in Zao’s nature through the seasons and savor Yamagata’s seasonal ingredients?

The unique open-ceiling lobby lounge offers a sense of Zao's changing seasons. Relax and unwind in the soothing Onsen with natural hot spring water flowing into rock and cypress open-air baths. Enjoy your stay surrounded by the forest, taking your time to relax as much as you wish. From the windows, you can admire panoramic views of Zao's mountains and ski slopes, experiencing the beauty of nature throughout the seasons.

Located on a hill in Zao Onsen, Yamagata Prefecture, the traditional accommodation "Wakamatsuya" is associated with Mokichi Saito, a renowned local poet. Established in 1655 (Meireki 1), it is one of the most historic accommodations in Zao Onsen and has been cherished by many guests over the years. Enjoy the luxurious natural onsen with 100% pure spring water flowing directly into our "Large Stone Carved Open-Air Bath." Relax in guest rooms offering views of Mount Zao, one of Japan's top 100 mountains. Savor seasonal Yamagata cuisine and experience heartfelt hospitality for a truly soothing stay.

Sakaiya Mori no Hotel Waldberg has fully renovated its open-air baths for both men and women, adding new reclining baths and waterfall showers. In our Japanese-style rooms with a private bath and toilet, the futon is already laid out so you can relax right away. In addition, our strongly acidic sulfur Onsen (pH 1.8) is gentle on the skin and guests. Enjoy a carefully crafted Japanese kaiseki meal featuring locally sourced ingredients.

A long-established Accommodation with 35 years of history. Enjoy soothing stays with sweeping views of the Yamagata–Zao mountain range from the bath.We offer two types of hot springs: a rare free-flowing natural spring and a gentle large public bath that is kind to the skin. The soft water is ideal for families with small children and solo travelers who want to enjoy a long, relaxing soak.At our open-air rooftop glamping area, take in panoramic mountain views and gaze up at the starry sky for an extraordinary escape that refreshes the soul. Spend your time your way and savor blissful bathing.

A small hub supports the local community. Find your second home in Zao. “YuiLocalZao” is a lodge-style, unmanned Hotel with seven Rooms, designed for guests who want to fully enjoy the great outdoors of Zao Onsen. With seamless self check-in and a stay based on No Meals Included—guided by the idea that “the whole town is one Hotel”—you can enjoy encounters with local people and culture.

Approximately 50 minutes by car from Sendai Station. Located within a villa area overlooking the Zao mountain range, with a comprehensive management system. All units include Onsen, and some also feature open-air baths and saunas. Enjoy luxurious and irreplaceable moments with family, friends, or loved ones, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

A newly renovated Japanese-modern Ryokan in Zao Onsen. Surrounded by nature, this Ryokan features a harmonious blend of traditional charm and modern design in a Japanese-style space. All Rooms are non-smoking and designed with functional Japanese-modern aesthetics. Enjoy the renowned historic hot spring of Zao Onsen, one of the most famous in the Tohoku region, and savor Yamagata's specialty dishes, including the "Yaki Shabu Zen." Experience the warmth of natural wood and spend your time in a slow and relaxing atmosphere. The Takamiya Group's activities are also recommended for children full of energy. In winter, enjoy winter sports in a prime location with stunning views of Yamagata Zao.

A Property in the heart of Zao, perfect for fully enjoying the Zao Onsen experience. Located in the center of Zao Onsen, it offers an ideal location for trekking in summer and skiing in winter. Guests staying here can enjoy over 50 types of activities offered by the Takamiya Group Facilities and around the Zao area. The Onsen at Lucent Takamiya features 100% natural hot spring water, boasting the highest acidity among the famous Zao Onsen, known as the "beauty-enhancing water." For those who prioritize dining, enjoy a colorful Japanese kaiseki meal showcasing the culinary treasures of Yamagata, along with the highly popular and high-quality branded beef, "Yamagata Beef," prepared on a ceramic plate grill. Rooms are available in three distinct buildings, allowing you to choose according to your preferences and needs.

Experience and wonder brought to you by Zao. Surrounded by forests, breathtaking views from the highlands, and a sky full of stars. The Zao Onsen Ski Resort's Uwanodai Slope is right in front of the Hotel, just a 0-minute walk away. Enjoy the convenience of ski-in & ski-out access for your winter sports activities. Additionally, we offer lift ticket discounts, rental discounts, and a free shuttle for onsen hopping. At JURIN, make the most of your winter stay. For dining, we recommend our buffet featuring Zao beef grilled over firewood as its main dish along with other delights from Yamagata's natural bounty. Relax in the high-quality milky Onsen waters of Zao Onsen and unwind after enjoying all that Zao has to offer.

The 100% natural source onsen bath flows without adding water or heating, allowing you to enjoy the high-quality onsen of Zao.Milky white cloudy water that lets you feel the four seasons.Zao Onsen was discovered 1900 years ago by Kibi Takayoshi during Yamato Takeru's eastern expedition.