Family Adventure and Relaxation at Zao Onsen, Japan

A Day of Discovery in Zao Onsen

Today was all about embracing the simple joys of travel: good food, beautiful scenery, and the pleasure of spending quality time with Lena and Sophie. It’s amazing how a change of scenery and a slower pace can bring you closer. Today was one of those days that I will cherish.

Our day began, as many good days do, with a hearty breakfast at Zaonoie. The aroma of ramen filled the air, promising a delicious start. I opted for their signature ramen, while Lena chose a lighter option. Sophie, of course, was thrilled with her mini-ramen bowl, complete with extra noodles. The rich broth and perfectly cooked noodles were a testament to the restaurant's commitment to traditional Japanese flavors. It's amazing how a simple bowl of ramen can be so comforting and satisfying.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we headed to the Zao Onsen Bus Terminal. Today’s main attraction was the Zao Echo Line, a scenic route that promised breathtaking views of the Zao mountain range. Hopping on the bus was easy, and soon we were winding our way up the mountain. The anticipation was palpable, especially for Sophie, who kept asking, Are we there yet? every few minutes. I was excited to see the landscape myself, having read that the road offers different, stunning views each season.

The Zao Echo Line truly lived up to its reputation. Even though it's August, the vibrant greenery was a refreshing escape from the city. The road twisted and turned, revealing panoramic vistas at every corner. We stopped at a few viewpoints along the way, snapping photos and soaking in the serene beauty. Sophie was particularly fascinated by the vibrant foliage, pointing out every flower and interesting rock she could find. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the slightly humid air of the town below.

Sometimes, the most memorable moments are the unplanned stops and the simple act of appreciating the world around you.

After our scenic drive, lunch was calling our names. We decided to try Sugenoya, a charming Japanese restaurant known for its authentic dishes and dedication to local ingredients. The cozy atmosphere was perfect for a relaxing midday meal. Lena and I shared a selection of sushi and sashimi, while Sophie enjoyed a bento box filled with kid-friendly favorites. The fresh seafood and exquisite garnishes were a testament to the chef's skill and the quality of the ingredients.

With our appetites satisfied, we explored the local shops. TRUNKBASE蔵王店 caught my eye with its array of ski and snowboard gear. As a brewery technician in Heidelberg, I don’t get much use out of ski gear, but I always appreciate quality craftsmanship. I ended up buying Sophie a cute Zao Onsen-themed keychain, a small memento of our trip. Lena found a beautiful hand-painted fan, perfect for keeping cool during the warmer days back in Germany.

As evening approached, we made our way to Kasheru for dinner. This restaurant had been recommended to us for its cozy cabin vibe and delicious lamb dishes. The reviews didn't lie; the atmosphere was incredibly inviting, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. We ordered the Jingisukan, a Japanese-style Mongolian barbecue, and it was an absolute treat. The lamb was tender and flavorful, and the accompanying vegetables were fresh and crisp. Sophie loved grilling her own little pieces of lamb, and Lena and I enjoyed the interactive dining experience.

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll back to Der Barte, enjoying the cool evening air and the twinkling lights of Zao Onsen. The town had a peaceful charm that was hard to resist. As we walked, we chatted about our favorite moments of the day: Sophie's excitement on the Zao Echo Line, the delicious sushi at Sugenoya, and the fun we had grilling lamb at Kasheru. These are the memories that make traveling with family so special.

Back at our guesthouse, Sophie was fast asleep, dreaming of her adventures. Lena and I sat on the balcony, sipping green tea and reflecting on our day. It was a day of simple pleasures, of connecting with nature and each other. As I look forward to tomorrow’s itinerary, which includes a visit to Mitakisan Fudoin Temple and Akiu Traditional Craft Village, I feel grateful for these moments of peace and joy. I’m particularly looking forward to visiting the Zao Brewery tomorrow evening. I think it will be a great opportunity to sample some local brews and unwind after a day of exploring.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a note of a couple of things we forgot to pack: a power adapter for Japanese outlets and an extra memory card for the camera. Hopefully, we can find them in one of the local shops tomorrow. For now, I'm content with the memories we made today, and I'm excited for what tomorrow will bring.