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

A Day of Heights and Brews

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Omiya Ryokan. Fuelled up with traditional Japanese fare, we were ready to explore Zaō Quasi-National Park. The park is a sprawling expanse of natural beauty, and I was eager to capture some stunning photographs. Aaliyah, ever the planner, had marked out a few key spots she wanted to see.


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

We started with a leisurely drive along the Zao Echo Line. The road winds through the mountains, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Even though it's June, the vibrant greenery was a welcome change from the orchards back in Kelowna. I couldn't help but think of the autumn foliage, which I read is particularly spectacular along this route. Maybe we need to plan a return trip in the fall!


Experience the stunning natural beauty and scenic vistas of the Zao Echo Line, a must-visit attraction in Miyagi, Japan.

The drive itself was an experience. The road is well-maintained, but it’s also quite twisty, which made for some fun driving. We stopped at several viewpoints along the way, each offering a unique perspective of the park. Aaliyah was in her element, pointing out different species of trees and flowers. I, of course, was busy snapping photos, trying to capture the essence of the landscape.

For lunch, we stopped at Tomitaya, a local restaurant known for its traditional Japanese cuisine. We opted for a hot pot, filled with fresh vegetables and savory broth. It was the perfect way to warm up after our morning drive. The restaurant itself was cozy and inviting, with friendly staff who made us feel right at home. I made a mental note to try Jingisukan next time, a local lamb barbeque dish that sounds delicious.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Tomitaya, where freshly made Soba noodles and traditional dishes await you in beautiful Zaoonsen.

Nature's beauty and local flavors combine to create unforgettable experiences.

After lunch, we continued our exploration of Zaō Quasi-National Park. We took a short hike on one of the trails, enjoying the peace and quiet of the forest. The air was fresh and clean, and the only sounds were the rustling of leaves and the occasional birdsong. It was a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. I even managed to spot a few interesting birds, which I tried to photograph with varying degrees of success. My camera skills could definitely use some improvement!

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to head back towards Zao Onsen, but not before making one last stop. We had heard about a local sake museum and bar called Tsumami: Yamagata Sake Museum & Bar, and I was eager to sample some of the region’s famous rice wine. Being from the Netherlands originally, I have a soft spot for local breweries and distilleries, so I was curious to see what Yamagata had to offer.


Experience the heart of Yamagata's sake culture at Tsumami: Yamagata Sake Museum & Bar, where tradition meets taste.

The sake museum was small but informative, with displays detailing the history and production of sake in the region. What really caught my attention was the bar, Yukemuri Bar Tsumami. It featured an impressive selection of sake from 49 breweries in Yamagata Prefecture! Aaliyah, who isn't usually a fan of sake, decided to try a small glass as well. I opted for a tasting flight, sampling a variety of different styles and flavors. I even discovered a new rice I like with the fairy-liked name Yukimegami or also known as “Snow Goddess 雪女神”.

The bartender was knowledgeable and passionate about sake, guiding us through the different options and offering recommendations based on our preferences. It was a great opportunity to learn more about this traditional Japanese beverage. We ended up purchasing a bottle of namazake to enjoy back at the ryokan. Sipping sake while soaking in an onsen sounds like the perfect way to end the day!

For dinner, we decided to try Jupeer, a restaurant that offers a fusion of Japanese and Western flavors. I was curious to see how they would combine these two culinary traditions. The menu was diverse, with options ranging from sushi to pasta. I opted for a Wagyu beef burger, while Aaliyah chose a seafood pasta dish. Both were delicious, and it was a nice change of pace from the traditional Japanese cuisine we had been eating.


Experience the vibrant blend of dining and sports at Jupeer in Yamagata - where flavor meets fun!

As we walked back to Omiya Ryokan, the air was cool and crisp. The stars were out, and the sky was clear. It was the perfect end to a perfect day. I felt relaxed and rejuvenated, ready for whatever adventures tomorrow might bring.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Dokko Marsh and Zao Onsen Dairotenburo. I’m particularly excited about the outdoor bath; I’ve heard it’s an amazing experience. We might also check out Zao Souvenir Center Marushichi for some local crafts and souvenirs. I am hoping to find a nice piece of pottery to bring back home to Kelowna.

Back at Omiya Ryokan, I’m looking forward to unwinding in the onsen before calling it a night. I might even crack open that bottle of sake. Until tomorrow, happy travels!