Tranquil Retreat in Zao Onsen: A Journey to Japan's Hot Springs

Arrival in Zao Onsen: A Promising Start

After a long journey from Kelowna, with a stopover in Tokyo and a scenic train ride to Yamagata, Aaliyah and I finally arrived in Zao Onsen. The transition from city bustle to mountain tranquility was immediate and incredibly welcome. I'm eager to share our first impressions and experiences in this charming hot spring town.

Our day began, as all good days should, with a hearty breakfast at Omiya Ryokan. We were served a traditional Japanese breakfast that included grilled fish, miso soup, rice, and various pickled vegetables. It was a delicious introduction to the local cuisine, and fueled us up perfectly for the day's adventures. Aaliyah, ever the early bird, was particularly thrilled with the assortment of dishes, each offering a unique taste of Japan. It's these small, authentic experiences that make traveling so rewarding.


Experience authentic Japanese hospitality at Omiya Ryokan, a serene guesthouse in Yamagata known for its warm ambiance and spa services.

With appetites sated, we set out to explore Zao Onsen. The air was crisp and clean, a refreshing change from Kelowna's summer heat. The town itself is quaint and inviting, with narrow streets lined with traditional wooden buildings. It felt like stepping back in time. We wandered through the streets, taking in the sights and sounds, and quickly found ourselves drawn to the Zao Ropeway Zao Sanroku Station. We purchased our tickets for a ride up the mountain. I was excited to get a panoramic view of the area.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Zao Ropeway, a scenic mountain cable car experience in Yamagata, Japan, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The ropeway ride was nothing short of spectacular. As we ascended, the views opened up, revealing lush green landscapes stretching as far as the eye could see. The trees were vibrant, and the air grew cooler with each meter we climbed. Aaliyah, ever the photographer, was in her element, snapping photos of the stunning scenery. I tried my best to capture the beauty with my own camera, but some moments are best enjoyed without a lens in between.

The journey is the destination, and Zao Onsen is a perfect example of a place where the simple act of exploring becomes an unforgettable experience.

At the summit, we were greeted with even more breathtaking views. We took our time to soak it all in, breathing in the fresh mountain air and marveling at the natural beauty surrounding us. It was a perfect moment of peace and tranquility, a welcome escape from the stresses of daily life. We took a short hike around the summit, exploring the various viewpoints and taking in the panoramic vistas. The air was so clear that we could see for miles in every direction.

After our mountain adventure, we descended back to Zao Onsen and sought out a spot for lunch. We decided on Zaonoie, a local restaurant known for its traditional dishes. We enjoyed a delicious meal of soba noodles and tempura, savoring the flavors of the region. The restaurant had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. It was a great opportunity to try some authentic Japanese cuisine.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Zaonoie, Yamagata's premier ramen restaurant nestled in the scenic Zaoonsen area.

Later in the afternoon, we decided to indulge in one of Zao Onsen's main attractions: its hot springs. We visited a local onsen and soaked in the therapeutic waters, letting our muscles relax and our minds unwind. The hot springs are known for their healing properties, and I could feel the tension melting away with each passing minute. Aaliyah particularly enjoyed the open-air bath, where she could soak in the warm water while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings. The experience was incredibly rejuvenating, and we both felt refreshed and revitalized afterwards.

As evening approached, we ventured out to explore Zao Brewery. I was eager to sample some local craft beer. The brewery had a cozy, inviting atmosphere, and the beer was excellent. I tried a variety of different brews, each with its own unique flavor profile. Aaliyah, not being a beer drinker, opted for a glass of local sake, which she thoroughly enjoyed. It was a great way to unwind after a day of exploring.


Experience the artistry of craft beer at Zao Brewery, where tradition meets innovation in the heart of Yamagata's scenic landscapes.

For dinner, we chose Izakaya Kiwa, a traditional Japanese pub. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and the food was delicious. We sampled a variety of small dishes, including grilled meats, seafood, and pickled vegetables. It was a great opportunity to experience the local culinary scene and immerse ourselves in the culture. The izakaya was bustling with locals, which added to the authentic experience. We chatted with some of the patrons, learning more about the town and its history.


Discover the charm of traditional izakaya dining at Izakaya Kiwa in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen area.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our first impressions of Zao Onsen. It's a charming town with a rich history and stunning natural beauty. The hot springs are incredibly rejuvenating, and the local cuisine is delicious. We're both excited to continue exploring the area and discovering all that it has to offer. I'm especially looking forward to tomorrow's itinerary, which includes a visit to Okama and Jizo Sancho Station. I've heard that Okama is a stunning volcanic crater lake, and I can't wait to see it for myself. I'm also excited to explore Jizo Sancho Station, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Back at Omiya Ryokan, we settled into our traditional Japanese room, complete with tatami mats and futon beds. It was a cozy and comfortable space, perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring. We sipped on some green tea and reflected on our first day in Zao Onsen. It had been a perfect introduction to this charming town, and we were both excited for what the rest of our trip would bring. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a beautiful and unique place with my wonderful wife, Aaliyah. I'm also grateful that I remembered to pack my hiking shoes, although I did forget the Japanese phrasebook. I will try to find one tomorrow at the Zao Specialty Museum Notoya.