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

A Day of Natural Wonders and Local Delights

Today marked the fourth day of our serene escape to Zao Onsen, and it was nothing short of spectacular. Pieter and I ventured out to explore the natural beauty and local flavors of this charming region. From scenic drives to delightful culinary experiences, Zao Onsen continued to enchant us with its unique blend of tranquility and adventure.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Omiya Ryokan, where we are staying [from TripDetails]. The traditional Japanese breakfast, with its array of small dishes, provided the perfect fuel for our day's adventures. I especially enjoyed the freshly made tofu and the flavorful miso soup. After breakfast, we set out to explore the famed Zao Echo Line [from Itinerary of Today].


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

Exploring the Zao Echo Line

The Zao Echo Line is a scenic mountain road that cuts through the Zao mountain range, offering breathtaking views at every turn. As we drove, I couldn't help but marvel at the lush greenery that surrounded us. Although the Echo Line is known for its snow walls in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn, the summer greenery was equally stunning. The winding road itself was a joy to navigate, with each curve revealing a new vista of rolling hills and verdant forests. I was a bit disappointed we missed the snow walls, but Pieter reminded me that summer offers its own unique charm, and he was absolutely right.


Experience the breathtaking views along Zao Echo Line in Miyagi, Japan—where nature's beauty meets adventure in every turn.

The beauty of Zao Echo Line lies not just in its panoramic views, but in the journey itself, a winding path that connects you to the heart of nature.

We stopped at several viewpoints along the way, each offering a different perspective of the landscape. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the city air I'm used to in Delft. I made sure to take plenty of photos, trying to capture the essence of this natural beauty. It's moments like these that remind me why I love traveling – the chance to immerse myself in nature and appreciate the simple wonders of the world. I even managed to capture a few shots of local flora, adding to my growing collection of nature photography.

Discovering Zaō Quasi-National Park

Next on our itinerary was a visit to Zaō Quasi-National Park [from Itinerary of Today], a sprawling natural reserve that encompasses much of the Zao mountain range. The park is renowned for its diverse landscapes, from volcanic peaks to serene hot springs. We decided to take a short hike to one of the many viewpoints, eager to stretch our legs and take in the panoramic scenery. The trails were well-maintained, and we encountered several other hikers, all equally captivated by the park's beauty. As we ascended, the views became even more spectacular, with glimpses of distant mountains and verdant valleys. I was particularly excited to spot some local wildlife, including deer and various bird species. It was a true delight to witness these creatures in their natural habitat. Pieter, ever the observant one, pointed out different species of trees and plants, sharing his knowledge of botany. His insights added another layer of appreciation to our hike.


Explore Zaō Quasi-National Park: A breathtaking sanctuary of stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and rejuvenating hot springs in Japan's Yamagata region.

The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints and hidden waterfalls. Although we didn't have time to explore everything, we made a mental note to return and delve deeper into this natural paradise. The blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences makes Zaō Quasi-National Park a must-visit destination in Japan.

A Heartwarming Lunch at Shiba Mama no Omise

After our invigorating hike, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Shiba Mama no Omise [from Itinerary of Today], a cozy café known for its healthy and comforting food. This charming spot is run by a traditional elderly Japanese couple, and their warmth and hospitality were immediately evident. The café is famous for its delectable curry dishes, and I opted for the vegetable curry udon, while Pieter chose the beef stew with rice.


Discover Shiba Mama no Omise in Zao Onsen – where authentic vegetarian cuisine meets warm Japanese hospitality amidst stunning natural beauty.

The food was absolutely divine. My vegetable curry udon was packed with an abundance of fresh ingredients, each bite bursting with flavor. Pieter's beef stew was hearty and flavorful, the beef tender and melt-in-your-mouth. What made the experience even more special was the exceptional service. We were greeted with complimentary green tea and a small palette cleanser, a thoughtful touch that added to the overall charm.

As we savored our meal, we chatted with Shiba Mama herself, who was incredibly kind and welcoming. She even shared some local tips, recommending a few hidden gems in Zao Onsen that are not typically found in guidebooks. It’s moments like these that make traveling so rewarding – connecting with locals and experiencing the true essence of a place. I was particularly touched by her genuine interest in our travels and her eagerness to share her culture with us. It reminded me of the importance of sustainable travel, where we not only explore new places but also support local businesses and communities.

Evening Indulgence at Touen

As evening approached, we prepared for our dinner at Touen [from Itinerary of Today], a restaurant known for its authentic Yamagata cuisine. I was eager to try some local specialties, and Touen did not disappoint. The ambiance was warm and inviting, with traditional Japanese decor creating a serene atmosphere. We started with a selection of appetizers, each a delicate balance of flavors and textures. For our main courses, I chose the Yamagata beef steak, while Pieter opted for the local fish dish.


Discover the true taste of Japan at Touen - where authentic Yakiniku meets warm hospitality in beautiful Zaoonsen.

My steak was cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, with a rich, savory flavor that melted in my mouth. Pieter raved about his fish dish, praising its freshness and the subtle blend of spices. The meal was a true culinary delight, a testament to the region's rich gastronomic heritage. We paired our dinner with local sake, enhancing the flavors of the food and adding to the overall experience. The staff were attentive and knowledgeable, guiding us through the menu and offering recommendations based on our preferences.

A Nightcap at Tsumami: Yamagata Sake Museum & Bar

To cap off our evening, we decided to visit Tsumami: Yamagata Sake Museum & Bar [from Itinerary of Today], a unique establishment that combines education and tasting. The museum section offered a fascinating glimpse into the history and production of sake, while the bar provided an impressive selection of local brews. I was particularly intrigued by the different varieties of rice used in sake production, each imparting its own unique flavor profile. We sampled a few different sakes, each with its own distinct character. I was particularly fond of the Yukimegami, also known as Snow Goddess, with its delicate aroma and smooth finish. Pieter, being the beer enthusiast, surprised me by enjoying the sake as well, appreciating its complexity and craftsmanship.


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

The atmosphere at Tsumami was cozy and inviting, the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share their passion for sake. We learned about the intricate processes involved in sake brewing, from the selection of rice to the fermentation techniques that have been passed down through generations. It was a truly immersive experience, one that deepened our appreciation for this traditional Japanese beverage. As we sipped our sake, we reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Zao Onsen.

“Travel is not reward for working, it's education for living.”

As the day drew to a close, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. Zao Onsen had once again exceeded my expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, culinary delights, and cultural immersion. I am so grateful that Pieter and I decided to take this trip together, strengthening our bond and creating lasting memories. The experiences we shared today will undoubtedly stay with us long after we return to Delft.

Looking Ahead

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Genshichi Roten no yu Zao Onsen, an open-air bath, and explore Iroha Marsh [from Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I’m particularly excited about the open-air bath, as I’ve heard it offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. And of course, we'll have breakfast at Omiya Ryokan, lunch at Kasheru, and dinner at Jingisukan Lodge [from Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I’m already looking forward to another day of exploration and adventure in this enchanting corner of Japan.
I am also excited to do some shopping at the Yoneya Department Store [from Itinerary of Tomorrow], where I hope to find some unique souvenirs to take back home. I have heard that they offer a variety of local crafts and delicacies, perfect for reminding us of our time in Zao Onsen. Until then, I bid you goodnight from Zao Onsen, where the stars shine brightly and the air is filled with the promise of new adventures.

The weather in Zao Onsen in July typically includes high temperatures and heavy rainfall. Expect temperatures to climb to 27°C during the day, with nighttime readings dropping to 19°C. Be prepared for rain on roughly 21 days of the month, with average rainfall around 192 mm. The humidity is high, around 84%, and sunshine is moderate, with about 124 hours for the month.