A Serene Escape to Zao Onsen: Unwinding in Japan's Hot Springs

A Day of Furry Friends and Soothing Waters

Today was a day filled with delightful surprises and heartwarming moments, further solidifying my love for Japan. Pieter and I ventured out to explore more of Zao Onsen and its surroundings, and I couldn't wait to share all the wonderful experiences. It was a day of furry encounters, soothing onsen waters, and delicious food—a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Omiya Ryokan, where we enjoyed a traditional Japanese spread. Savoring the delicate flavors of miso soup, grilled fish, and pickled vegetables, I felt energized and ready for the adventures that awaited. After breakfast, 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 drive to the Fox Village was scenic, passing through lush green landscapes and quaint countryside homes. As we approached, I could hardly contain my excitement. I had seen photos and videos of this unique place, but nothing could have prepared me for the actual experience. Zaō Fox Village is home to over 100 free-roaming foxes of various species. As we entered the main enclosure, we were greeted by a myriad of foxes—red, silver, and white—lounging, playing, and curiously watching the visitors. It was like stepping into a fairy tale, where these beautiful creatures lived in harmony with nature and humans alike.


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

I must admit, I was a bit apprehensive at first. After all, these were wild animals, and I wasn't sure how they would react to our presence. However, the staff at the village were incredibly helpful and provided clear instructions on how to interact with the foxes safely. We learned that while we could observe and photograph them, touching was strictly prohibited as they may bite. It's important to respect their space and remember that they are not domesticated pets.

As we walked through the enclosure, foxes of all sizes and colors came right up to us, sniffing our shoes and playfully nipping at our bags. Some were curled up in the sun, while others dashed around, leaving tiny paw prints in the dirt. It was fascinating to watch their behavior and see their interactions with each other. I couldn't help but giggle as a small fox tried to steal Pieter's attention, tugging at his pants with its teeth. Pieter, ever the gentle soul, stood perfectly still, allowing the fox to investigate him before it scampered off to join its friends. The foxes are really cute and keep chasing for food.

We bought some treats from the designated feeding area and watched as the foxes excitedly jumped and yipped, eager to catch the morsels we tossed their way. It was both adorable and a little chaotic, as the foxes jostled for position, their fluffy tails wagging furiously. I felt a pang of sympathy for the smaller, less assertive foxes, who often missed out on the treats. I tried my best to ensure everyone got a fair share, but it was a challenge with so many eager participants.

The beauty of Zao Onsen lies not just in its stunning landscapes, but in the unexpected encounters that weave together nature, culture, and heartwarming connections.

After spending a couple of hours with the foxes, we decided to head back to Zao Onsen and explore some of the local shops. Our next stop was Zao Onsen Yutabiya TAKAYUDO, a charming shop that specializes in hot spring-related goods. As someone who loves a good soak, I was excited to see what treasures I could find here. The shop was filled with a delightful array of items, from stylish bath accessories to aromatic soaps and lotions.


Explore Zao Onsen Yutabiya TAKAYUDO for unique souvenirs, local culture, and essential travel tips in the stunning Yamagata region of Japan.

I was immediately drawn to the Marukoro-chan goods, miniature kokeshi dolls crafted by a local artist. These dolls were incredibly cute, and I loved the idea of supporting a local artisan. I ended up buying a small Marukoro-chan doll as a souvenir, as well as a hand towel with a charming fox design. Pieter, on the other hand, was intrigued by the original blended coffee, a collaboration with a popular café in Yamagata City. He bought a bag of the drip coffee to enjoy back at our ryokan, eager to savor the flavors of this unique blend.

For lunch, we ventured to KOTOBUKI (Y.N.S.C Ltd), a unique restaurant known for its warm, camp-like vibe and its specialty: beef sukiyaki. The restaurant is run by a sweet couple who explained the sukiyaki cooking process. We ordered two sets, which included various cuts of beef, beef sashimi, and local sake. The beef sashimi, flavored with salt, was a revelation—tender, flavorful, and perfectly complemented by the sake. The set also included a tray of appetizers, featuring more delicious beef and pickles. The egg was well cooked.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at KOTOBUKI in Yamagata, where sukiyaki takes center stage amid a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The sukiyaki was the highlight of the meal. The female owner helped grease and fry the beef. Fresh, raw eggs were provided for dipping, adding a rich and creamy texture to the meat. We asked for rice and soup to be served with the fried beef, savoring each bite as the flavors melded together in perfect harmony. After that we went into nabe mode and veg was coming in sukiyaki sauce + water, with the rest of the beef cooked as we went. The unconventional dinner setting was unforgettable, cosy and beautiful.

As we dined, we struck up a conversation with another couple from Hong Kong, who were also visiting Zao Onsen for the snowboarding. We shared stories of our travels and experiences in Japan, bonding over our love for the country and its unique culture. It was a reminder of how travel can bring people together, creating connections that transcend borders and languages. We all loved Niseko, but agreed that Zao was much less crowded, with excellent snow quality.

In the evening, we decided to check out Zao Onsen & Ski Lodge Scole, a cozy bar known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff. We sat at the bar, sipping on local craft beers and chatting with the bartender, who shared stories about the history of Zao Onsen and its transformation from a small mountain village to a popular tourist destination. The lodge is a European classic style lodge in the central area of Zao Onsen. The owners are very friendly and excellent in English.


Discover Zao Onsen & Ski Lodge Scole: A perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in Japan's breathtaking landscapes, ideal for families and winter sports lovers.

As the night drew to a close, Pieter and I walked back to Omiya Ryokan, our hearts full of joy and gratitude. It had been a day of unexpected encounters and delightful discoveries, a testament to the magic of Zao Onsen. I felt a deep sense of connection to this place, its people, and its natural beauty. I was already looking forward to tomorrow, when we planned to visit the Zao Onsen Shitayu Public Bathhouse and Jizo Sancho Station. I was excited to experience more of Zao Onsen's charm and create even more unforgettable memories. Also, we will have lunch at Zaonoie.


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

Before drifting off to sleep, I reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such unique and heartwarming moments. From the playful foxes to the soothing onsen waters and the delicious food, every moment had been a gift. I realized that the true beauty of Zao Onsen lies not just in its stunning landscapes, but in the unexpected encounters that weave together nature, culture, and heartwarming connections.