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

A Walk on the Wild Side

Today was a day of delightful surprises and captivating encounters here in Zao Onsen. From the charming antics of foxes to the serene beauty of cascading waterfalls, every moment felt like a scene from a storybook. The rich tapestry of experiences was woven together with the comforting thread of local cuisine, making it a day I'll cherish forever.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Omiya Ryokan. The traditional Japanese fare was the perfect fuel for the day's adventures. Aaliyah particularly enjoyed the grilled fish, while I savored the miso soup, a comforting reminder of our travels so far. With bellies full and spirits high, we set off to our first destination: Zaō Fox Village.


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

The Zaō Fox Village was an experience unlike any other. As we stepped inside, we were immediately greeted by a flurry of furry creatures, each with its own unique personality. Red foxes, silver foxes, and even a few arctic foxes roamed freely, creating a scene of organized chaos that was both endearing and slightly overwhelming. I've always been fascinated by wildlife, and the chance to observe these animals up close was a dream come true. Aaliyah, ever the pragmatist, was initially a bit hesitant, but she quickly warmed up to the playful antics of the foxes, especially the younger ones who seemed particularly curious about us.


Explore Zaō Fox Village, a captivating sanctuary in Miyagi, Japan, where you can interact with charming foxes amidst breathtaking natural scenery.

Walking among the foxes was an exercise in mindfulness. They darted around our feet, sometimes stopping to eye us with cautious curiosity, other times completely ignoring us as they chased each other in playful games. The air was filled with their soft barks and yips, a constant reminder that we were in their territory. Despite the initial warnings about not touching the foxes, it was hard to resist the urge to reach out and stroke their soft fur. However, we heeded the advice of the staff and kept our hands to ourselves, respecting their wild nature.

It's not just about seeing new places, it's about experiencing new perspectives.

One particularly memorable moment was when a young fox, emboldened by curiosity (or perhaps the hope of a treat), approached Aaliyah and gently nuzzled her hand. Her initial surprise quickly turned to delight as she watched the fox trot away, seemingly satisfied with the brief encounter. I managed to capture the moment with my camera, a snapshot of pure joy that I know we'll treasure for years to come. I must admit, the conditions at the Fox Village gave me pause. It's a delicate balance trying to appreciate wildlife while also considering their welfare, and it's something I continue to reflect on.

After bidding farewell to the foxes, we made our way to the Sankai Falls viewing platform. The drive itself was a treat, winding through lush green forests and offering glimpses of the stunning Yamagata landscape. As we approached the falls, we could hear the thunderous roar of the water cascading down the mountainside. The Sankai Falls are a series of three waterfalls, each cascading into the next, creating a breathtaking spectacle of natural beauty. The viewing platform offered a panoramic view of the falls, allowing us to fully appreciate their grandeur.


Explore the stunning beauty of the Sankai Falls viewing platform in Miyagi, Japan, and experience nature like never before.

The mist from the falls created a cool, refreshing atmosphere, a welcome respite from the warm summer day. Aaliyah and I stood in awe, listening to the symphony of nature and marveling at the power of the water. I tried my hand at capturing the scene with my camera, but no photograph could truly do justice to the sheer scale and beauty of the falls. It was a moment to simply be present, to soak in the beauty of the natural world and feel a sense of connection to something larger than ourselves.

Lunchtime found us at Kasheru, a charming restaurant known for its handmade soba noodles and local cuisine. The restaurant had a cozy, rustic atmosphere, with wooden beams and traditional Japanese decor. We were greeted by the friendly owner, who led us to a table overlooking a small garden. Aaliyah ordered the Genghis Khan, a local specialty featuring grilled lamb, while I opted for the handmade soba noodles with tempura. The food was absolutely delicious, bursting with fresh, local flavors. Aaliyah raved about the tenderness of the lamb, while I savored the delicate flavor of the soba noodles. It was the perfect meal to refuel after a morning of adventure.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Kasheru in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen area - where tradition meets taste.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to explore the town of Zao Onsen itself. The town is a charming mix of traditional Japanese inns, souvenir shops, and modern amenities. We strolled through the streets, browsing the local crafts and soaking in the atmosphere. We stopped at a small tea shop for a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, a serene and meditative experience that left us feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

For dinner, we ventured to stand MY, a local restaurant recommended by our ryokan. The restaurant had a modern, stylish atmosphere, with a menu that featured a mix of Japanese and international cuisine. Aaliyah ordered the lamb shabu-shabu, while I tried the local Yamagata beef. Both dishes were expertly prepared and beautifully presented. The flavors were complex and nuanced, a testament to the chef's skill and creativity. The staff were friendly and attentive, making us feel welcome and comfortable.


Discover the flavors of Japan at Stand MY in Zaoonsen - where tradition meets taste in every bite.

To cap off the evening, we decided to check out 50's cocktail's bar Cool (クール), a quirky little bar that promised a trip back in time. The bar was small and intimate, with retro decor and a vintage jukebox. The bartender was a friendly, charismatic character who clearly loved his craft. He mixed us up a couple of classic cocktails, expertly balancing flavors and presentation. The atmosphere was lively and fun, the perfect way to end a day of adventure and exploration.


Discover the charm of 50's Cocktail Bar Cool in Yamagata, where classic cocktails and a nostalgic ambiance create unforgettable memories.

As we walked back to Omiya Ryokan, hand in hand, Aaliyah and I reflected on the day's experiences. From the playful foxes to the majestic waterfalls, from the delicious food to the quirky bar, every moment had been a delight. Zao Onsen had truly captured our hearts, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and culinary delights. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to explore Iroha Marsh and Mount Zaō. It's hard to believe our trip is drawing to a close, but I'm determined to make the most of every remaining moment.

Before drifting off to sleep, I double-checked our packing list for tomorrow. I was relieved to see that we hadn't forgotten any essentials, though I did make a mental note to pick up a travel adapter for Japanese outlets when we get back to Kelowna. It's the little things that can make a big difference when you're traveling, and I'm always striving to be as prepared as possible. Good night from Zao Onsen! Tomorrow, we conquer Mount Zao!