Family Adventure and Relaxation at Zao Onsen, Japan

Adventures in Zao Onsen

Today was a delightful mix of adventure and relaxation in Zao Onsen, perfectly balancing family fun with the serene beauty of this Japanese gem. It’s amazing how much you can pack into a single day when you’re surrounded by so much to see and do. Sophie was particularly excited about our plans, and Lena and I were just happy to soak it all in.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Zaonoie. I opted for their signature ramen, which was the perfect way to fuel up for the day’s activities. Lena enjoyed a traditional Japanese breakfast set, and Sophie, of course, loved the mini onigiri. Zaonoie’s cozy atmosphere made it a great start to the day, setting a positive tone for everything that followed.

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

After breakfast, we headed to Zao Liza World. The drive itself was scenic, with glimpses of the mountains and lush greenery all around. Zao Liza World is a smaller resort compared to the main Zao Onsen Ski Resort, but that’s precisely what made it appealing. It felt less crowded and more manageable, especially with Sophie in tow.

Experience the magic of winter at Zao Liza World, Japan's premier ski resort, where adventure meets breathtaking natural beauty.

Embrace the unexpected detours, for they often lead to the most breathtaking views.

We spent a good chunk of the morning exploring the area. While it’s known as a ski resort in winter, Zao Liza World transforms into a lovely recreational area in the summer. We took a leisurely walk around the central run of the Zao Onsen Ski Resort, enjoying the panoramic views. Sophie was fascinated by the wildflowers dotting the landscape, and we took plenty of photos to capture the moment. I couldn’t help but imagine what this place would look like covered in snow; it’s definitely a place I’d like to visit again in the winter.

Experience the ultimate winter adventure at Zao Onsen Ski Resort, where stunning slopes meet rejuvenating hot springs in Yamagata, Japan.

One of the highlights of Zao Liza World was the buggy cruise. It was an exhilarating ride that gave us a unique perspective of the surrounding mountains. Sophie was laughing and pointing at everything, completely captivated by the experience. Lena and I enjoyed it just as much, feeling like kids again as we bounced along the trails.

After our adventures at Zao Liza World and the central run, we were all feeling a bit peckish. We decided to have lunch at Izakaya Kiwa. This charming spot offered a variety of local dishes, and we were eager to try some authentic Japanese cuisine. I went for the Yamagata beef, which was incredibly tender and flavorful. Lena opted for a selection of small plates, including some delicious pickled vegetables and grilled tofu. Sophie, surprisingly, enjoyed the edamame and even tried a bit of the beef.

Discover the charm of traditional izakaya dining at Izakaya Kiwa in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen area.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to do a bit of souvenir shopping at 36SHOP. This delightful store had a wide array of local crafts, traditional items, and quirky keepsakes. Lena was on the hunt for some unique textiles, while I was more interested in finding some local sake to bring back to Heidelberg. Sophie, of course, wanted everything she saw, but we managed to narrow it down to a cute little doll and a colorful fan.

Explore 36SHOP in Zaoonsen for unique Japanese souvenirs that embody the charm and artistry of Yamagata's rich cultural heritage.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way back to Der Barte, our cozy guesthouse. We took a short break to relax and recharge before heading out for dinner. Sophie took a nap, while Lena and I enjoyed a quiet moment on the balcony, sipping some green tea and reflecting on the day’s adventures.

Discover a charming guest house in Yamagata, perfect for group travelers and winter sports enthusiasts, with cozy rooms and essential amenities.

For dinner, we chose Kasheru, a restaurant known for its authentic Japanese cuisine. The ambiance was warm and inviting, and the menu featured a variety of dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. I decided to try the Jingisukan (Japanese style mutton), which was highly recommended. It was a unique and flavorful experience, cooking the mutton on a skillet at our table. Lena had the soba noodles, which she said were the best she’d ever tasted. Sophie enjoyed a simple but delicious bowl of rice with some grilled chicken.

Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Kasheru in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen area - where tradition meets taste.

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll through Zao Onsen, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the cool evening air. The town was quiet and serene, with the soft glow of lanterns illuminating the streets. We stopped by a small park, where Sophie played on the swings for a few minutes before we headed back to our guesthouse.

Back at Der Barte, we tucked Sophie into bed and then spent some time planning our itinerary for tomorrow. We’re looking forward to visiting Zao Onsen Yutabiya TAKAYUDO and Genshichi Roten no yu Zao Onsen, hoping to soak in some more of the local culture and relaxation. I'm also keen to check out stand MY bar.

Today was a wonderful reminder of why we love traveling as a family. From the adventures at Zao Liza World to the delicious meals and the charming atmosphere of Zao Onsen, every moment was special. It’s these experiences that create lasting memories and bring us closer together. As I sit here writing this, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share these moments with my loved ones. And I’m already looking forward to what tomorrow will bring.