Family Adventure and Relaxation at Zao Onsen, Japan

A Day of Heights and Hot Springs in Zao Onsen

Today was all about embracing the natural beauty and simple pleasures of Zao Onsen. From soaring high above the mountains on the Zao Ropeway to indulging in the local cuisine, it was a day filled with memorable experiences that Lena, Sophie, and I will cherish.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Zaonoie. I was eager to try their ramen, having read so much about it. The cozy atmosphere was inviting, and we settled in for a traditional Japanese breakfast. Lena opted for a simple miso soup with rice, while Sophie, surprisingly, devoured a plate of grilled fish. I went for a classic ramen, eager to taste the local flavors. It was a delicious start to the day, fueling us up for our mountain adventures.

After breakfast, we headed towards the Zao Ropeway Zao Sanroku Station. The walk itself was lovely, a gentle stroll through the town with the promise of panoramic views spurring us on. August in Zao Onsen is quite pleasant, with temperatures hovering around 23°C to 28°C, perfect for a day of exploring. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the summer heat we're used to in Heidelberg.

The Zao Ropeway is actually a series of ropeways that take you up to the summit of Mount Jizo. The first leg, from Zao Sanroku Station to Juhyo-Kogen Station, offered stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Even though it's summer, you could still feel the echoes of winter, imagining the famous 'snow monsters' that form here during the colder months. Sophie was absolutely thrilled, her face pressed against the glass as we ascended.

At Juhyo-Kogen Station, we transferred to the second ropeway, which took us to Zao Sancho Station near the summit. The views from the top were simply breathtaking. We could see for miles in every direction, a tapestry of green mountains and valleys stretching out before us. The air was noticeably cooler up here, and we were glad we had packed light jackets.

We spent some time exploring the summit area, taking photos and simply soaking in the scenery. There are several walking trails around the summit, catering to different skill levels. We opted for a shorter, easier trail, given Sophie's little legs. Even so, it was a fantastic experience, surrounded by the natural beauty of Zao. Lena was particularly captivated by the alpine flora, pointing out various plants and flowers to Sophie. I, of course, was busy snapping photos, trying to capture the grandeur of the landscape.

The simple act of exploring becomes an unforgettable experience.

After our mountain excursion, we descended back to Zao Onsen and decided to have lunch at Sugenoya. Having heard good things about their sushi and noodle dishes, we were eager to give it a try. The restaurant had a serene atmosphere, and we were seated in a cozy corner overlooking a small garden. Lena and I shared a sushi platter, while Sophie opted for udon noodles. The fish was incredibly fresh, and the noodles were perfectly cooked. It was a satisfying and delicious meal, a perfect complement to our morning adventure.

With our bellies full, we decided to do a bit of shopping. We stopped by the ROSSIGNOL STORE, which was conveniently located in town. While primarily known for ski equipment, they also had a selection of outdoor gear and apparel. I was tempted to pick up a new jacket, but I resisted, knowing I already have far too many back in Heidelberg. Sophie, however, was delighted to find a small stuffed animal to add to her collection.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to indulge in one of Zao Onsen's main attractions: the hot springs. We visited one of the public baths, a traditional onsen experience that was both relaxing and invigorating. The hot, mineral-rich water was incredibly soothing, easing our tired muscles after a day of hiking. Sophie was a bit hesitant at first, but she quickly warmed up to the experience, giggling as she splashed around in the water.

For dinner, we chose Hachiman, a yakiniku restaurant known for its local Yamagata beef. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and we were excited to try the local specialties. We ordered a selection of Zao beef, lamb, and Yamagata pork, grilling the meat right at our table. The quality of the meat was exceptional, each bite bursting with flavor. It was a truly memorable dining experience, and Sophie especially enjoyed cooking her own little pieces of meat.

As we walked back to Der Barte, our accommodation for the trip, the town was quiet and peaceful. The stars were out, and the air was cool and refreshing. It was the perfect end to a perfect day. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to explore Zaō Quasi-National Park and drive along the Zao Echo Line. I'm particularly excited about the park, as I've heard it offers some fantastic hiking trails and stunning views. We'll also be trying out a new breakfast spot, Shiba Mama no Omise, and enjoying lunch at Touen. For dinner, we're planning to visit Izakaya Kiwa, a local pub that I've heard has a great atmosphere. And, if we have time, I'm hoping to check out stand MY, a local bar. It should be another day filled with adventure and discovery, and I can't wait to share it with you all.

Before drifting off to sleep, I realized I still hadn't purchased a power adapter for the Japanese outlets – a definite oversight on my part! Luckily, I remembered to pack extra memory cards for the camera, so at least I'm covered on that front. I'll make sure to grab an adapter tomorrow; otherwise, charging my devices will be a real challenge.

Zao Onsen continues to surprise and delight, and I'm eager to see what tomorrow brings. Until then, happy travels!


Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Zao Ropeway, a scenic mountain cable car experience in Yamagata, Japan, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.


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


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Sugenoya in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen area.


Explore outdoor adventures at Rossignol Store, Yamagata's premier shopping destination for quality gear and apparel.


Savor authentic local cuisine at Hachiman in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen area—where tradition meets taste.


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