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

A Day of Temples and Tastes

Today marked another beautiful day in Zao Onsen, a perfect blend of spiritual exploration and culinary indulgence. Aaliyah and I set out to discover more of this charming town, and it certainly didn't disappoint. It’s amazing how much peace you can find in a place like this, a world away from our busy life back in Kelowna.

Our day began, as usual, with a delightful breakfast at Omiya Ryokan. There’s something so comforting about the traditional Japanese breakfast they serve here – the miso soup, grilled fish, and perfectly cooked rice. It’s the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. I made sure to take a mental note of the ingredients; perhaps I can try to recreate some of the dishes back home, adding a touch of Zao Onsen to our dining table in Canada.

First on our itinerary was a visit to Zaojizoson. As we approached, the serene atmosphere was immediately palpable. The statue itself is quite impressive, standing as a guardian of the mountain. It’s incredible to think about the history and the craftsmanship that went into creating such a monument. Aaliyah, ever the insightful one, pointed out the intricate details of the Jizo's robes and the peaceful expression on its face. We spent a few moments in quiet contemplation, appreciating the spiritual significance of the site. It was a grounding experience, reminding us to slow down and appreciate the present moment.

From Zaojizoson, we made our way to Mitakisan Fudoin Temple. This temple, nestled amidst the natural beauty of Zao Onsen, offered a different kind of spiritual experience. The temple grounds were immaculately maintained, and the air was filled with the scent of incense. We explored the various halls and shrines, each with its unique charm and history. I found myself particularly drawn to the main hall, where we watched a local monk perform a traditional ceremony. The rhythmic chanting and the solemn atmosphere were deeply moving. Aaliyah lit some incense, and we both offered a silent prayer for our families back home.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in discovering new perspectives and finding peace in unexpected corners of the world.

After our temple visits, it was time for lunch. We decided to try Kasheru, a restaurant known for its authentic Yamagata cuisine. The reviews I’d read online raved about their ramen, so I was eager to give it a try. The restaurant itself was cozy and inviting, with traditional Japanese décor and a friendly staff. Aaliyah opted for a set meal with various small dishes, while I went straight for the ramen. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The broth was rich and flavorful, the noodles perfectly cooked, and the toppings fresh and delicious. Aaliyah’s set meal was equally impressive, with each dish offering a unique taste and texture. We savored every bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such authentic Japanese flavors. I am definitely going to try to find a similar ramen place back in Kelowna!

With our bellies full and our spirits lifted, we decided to do some shopping at Yoneya Department Store. I was hoping to find some unique souvenirs to take back home, something more meaningful than the usual tourist trinkets. The department store was a treasure trove of local crafts, delicacies, and traditional Japanese goods. Aaliyah, with her keen eye for detail, found a beautiful silk scarf with a delicate floral pattern. I, on the other hand, was drawn to a set of handcrafted sake cups, each one unique and beautifully designed. We also picked up some local sweets and snacks to share with our friends and family back home. It’s always fun to bring back a taste of our travels to share with loved ones.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way back to Omiya Ryokan to relax before dinner. We spent a couple of hours soaking in the onsen, letting the hot spring waters soothe our tired muscles. There’s something incredibly therapeutic about the onsen experience – the heat, the minerals, the quiet atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. Aaliyah and I chatted about our day, sharing our favorite moments and reflecting on the beauty and tranquility of Zao Onsen. It’s moments like these that make our travels so special, creating memories that we’ll cherish for years to come.

For dinner, we had reservations at Hachiman, a yakiniku restaurant known for its Zao beef. I had heard so much about the quality of the beef in this region, and I was excited to finally try it for myself. The restaurant was small and intimate, with a traditional Japanese ambiance. We were seated at a table with a built-in grill, and the staff brought out a selection of different cuts of Zao beef. The marbling on the beef was incredible, and the aroma as it cooked on the grill was simply divine. Aaliyah and I savored each bite, marveling at the tenderness and flavor of the meat. It was truly a culinary experience to remember.

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll through the town, enjoying the cool evening air and the quiet ambiance. The streets were mostly deserted, and the only sounds were the gentle murmur of the river and the distant chirping of crickets. We stopped at a small park to sit and watch the stars, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such a peaceful and beautiful place. I tried to capture the moment with my camera, but some things are just too beautiful to be captured in a photograph. They need to be experienced in person, with all the senses.

As we walked back to the ryokan, Aaliyah and I talked about our plans for tomorrow. We’re heading to Ginzan Onsen, another famous hot spring town in the Yamagata region. I’m particularly excited to see the historic architecture and the picturesque scenery. We’re also planning to visit Yumoto Park and perhaps indulge in some local sake at SANRINA from ZAO BREWERY. It sounds like another day of exploration, relaxation, and culinary delights.

Back at Omiya Ryokan, we prepared for bed, feeling tired but content. I spent a few minutes jotting down my thoughts and experiences in my travel journal, wanting to capture the memories of this incredible day. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to travel and explore new places, to experience different cultures, and to create lasting memories with the woman I love. It’s a privilege that I don’t take for granted, and I’m excited to see what tomorrow brings.

Good night from Zao Onsen. Tomorrow, Ginzan Onsen awaits!