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

Stepping Back in Time and Toasting to Today

Today was a delightful mix of past and present, immersing ourselves in the nostalgic beauty of Ginzan Onsen before returning to Zao Onsen to enjoy some local flavors. It's amazing how a single day can hold so much charm, from serene landscapes to the buzz of a local brewery.

Our day began, as always, with a hearty breakfast at Omiya Ryokan. Aaliyah and I have really come to appreciate the traditional Japanese breakfasts here. It's a far cry from my usual toast back in Kelowna, but I'm finding myself quite fond of the variety and the subtle flavors. It sets the perfect tone for a day of exploration.


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

Journey to Ginzan Onsen

After breakfast, we set off for Ginzan Onsen. The drive itself was picturesque, winding through the Yamagata countryside. I couldn't help but think about how different this landscape is from the Okanagan Valley back home. While I miss the orchards and vineyards, there's something incredibly captivating about the lush greenery and rolling hills of Japan.

Explore the serene beauty of Ginzan Onsen, a traditional hot spring town in Yamagata, perfect for relaxation and cultural immersion.

Ginzan Onsen is like stepping into a postcard from the Taisho era. The wooden ryokans lining the Ginzan River, the gas lamps casting a warm glow, it's all incredibly charming. Aaliyah, with her keen eye for aesthetics, was in her element, snapping photos at every turn. I even managed to get a few decent shots myself, hoping to capture the essence of this nostalgic town.

We strolled along the main street, peeking into the small shops and soaking in the atmosphere. It's easy to see why Ginzan Onsen is said to have inspired the movie Spirited Away. There's a certain magic in the air, a sense of stepping back in time. I could almost imagine bathhouse workers bustling about and spirits flitting through the lantern-lit streets.

Sometimes, the most beautiful journeys are those that transport us not just to a new place, but to a different era.

We explored the Ginkeng-do Cave walking trail and took in the sights of Shirogane Falls. The falls weren't Niagara, but they were pretty nonetheless. I can only imagine how beautiful it must be here in the winter, with snow blanketing everything. I made a mental note to consider a return trip during the snowy season, although Aaliyah reminded me that booking accommodation during winter is notoriously difficult, with ryokans often fully booked months in advance.

For lunch, we stopped at KOTOBUKI (Y.N.S.C Ltd), a restaurant recommended to us by some locals. The restaurant had a unique camp vibe. We decided to try their sukiyaki, and it was a great choice. The beef was cooked to perfection, and the flavors were incredible. The owner even told us that her husband used to be on the national snowboard team. After lunch, Aaliyah and I took a short walk to Yumoto Park. It was a peaceful oasis, perfect for a relaxing stroll. The park was adorned with vibrant flowers and towering trees. I took advantage of the scenery and snapped a few photographs.

Discover tranquility and natural beauty at Yumoto Park, a serene escape in Akiumachi, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.

A Taste of Local Brews

Back in Zao Onsen, we decided to check out SANRINA from ZAO BREWERY. I've been wanting to sample some local craft beer, and this seemed like the perfect opportunity. The brewery had a cozy, inviting atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and knowledgeable. I opted for their ZAO CLASSIC IPA, while Aaliyah tried the SNOW MONSTER white ale. Both were excellent, and it was great to taste the unique flavors of the region.

Discover the essence of Japanese craftsmanship at SANRINA from ZAO BREWERY, where artisanal beers meet local cuisine in a cozy brewpub setting.

While sipping our beers, we chatted with some other patrons, learning about the local area and getting recommendations for things to see and do. It's these kinds of interactions that really make a trip special, connecting with people and sharing experiences.

For dinner, we decided to try Jingisukan Lodge, a restaurant specializing in Jingisukan, a local dish of grilled mutton. It's not something I'd normally go for, but I'm trying to be more adventurous with my food choices. The meal was delicious and quite the experience. The meat was tender and flavorful, and the communal grilling added a fun, social element to the evening.

Experience authentic mutton barbecue at Jingisukan Lodge in Yamagata's picturesque Zaoonsen region.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our adventures. From the nostalgic charm of Ginzan Onsen to the refreshing taste of local craft beer and the savory delights of Jingisukan, it was a day filled with memorable experiences. I'm grateful for these opportunities to explore new places and cultures, and I'm excited for what tomorrow brings.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Zao Onsen Ski Resort, even though it's not ski season. Aaliyah wants to see the views from the top, and I'm curious to see the resort in the summer. We're also going to check out the Zao Onsen Shitayu Public Bathhouse for a relaxing soak. And of course, we'll be sampling more local cuisine, with lunch at Unite Cafe and dinner at Sugenoya. It's another day of exploration and relaxation, and I can't wait.

Even though I miss my routine back in Kelowna, I am excited to see what tomorrow brings!