Okama Crater: Zao's Emerald Eye
Witness the mesmerizing, ever-changing colors of Okama Crater, a volcanic jewel nestled in the peaks of Mount Zao. A natural wonder to behold.
Okama Crater, also known as the 'Five Color Pond,' is a stunning volcanic crater lake on Mount Zao, straddling the border of Miyagi and Yamagata prefectures. Its vibrant, ever-changing colors and dramatic setting make it a must-see natural wonder.
A brief summary to Okama
- Togattaonsen, 倉石岳国有林内 蔵王の御釜, Zaō, Togattaonsen, Katta District, Miyagi, 989-0916, JP
- +81224-34-2725
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the weather forecast before you go; Okama is often obscured by clouds, especially during the early morning.
- The best time to visit is between late spring and early autumn when the roads are open and the colors are most vibrant.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the crater's viewing platforms.
Getting There
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Car
From Sendai, drive approximately 90 minutes via the Tohoku Expressway to Murata IC, then follow the signs for Zao Echo Line. From Yamagata, take the Zao Echo Line towards the mountain. Note that the Zao Echo Line is typically open from late April to early November. The final few hundred meters to the parking lot near the crater require using the Zao High Line toll road, costing ¥550 per car for a round trip. Parking is available near the summit.
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Public Transport
From Yamagata Station, take the JR Yamagata Line to Kaminoyama Onsen Station (approx. 15 minutes, ¥240). From Kaminoyama Onsen, a free shuttle bus (Miyako bus bound for Zao Katta Sancho) runs to the Kattadake parking lot (approx. 1 hour). Then, take the Zao-Katta ski lift towards the top (¥750 round trip). From Shiroishi-Zao Station, take the bus to Zao-Katta Sancho (approx. 1.5 hours, ¥1960 one way). From the bus stop or ski lift, it's a short walk to the viewing platform.
Discover more about Okama
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Zao
0.6 km
Explore the enchanting nature preserve of Zao, where stunning landscapes, hot springs, and wildlife await your discovery in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan.
JUHYO KOGEN STATION
3.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and outdoor adventures at JUHYO KOGEN STATION in the Zao Mountains, Japan.
Zao Liza World
4.1 km
Experience the magic of winter at Zao Liza World, Japan's premier ski resort, where adventure meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Wald Berg
5.5 km
Discover the serenity and charm of Wald Berg, a traditional Japanese inn in Yamagata, offering a unique cultural experience amidst stunning natural beauty.
Lodge Christmas Rose Zao
5.6 km
Discover the charm of Lodge Christmas Rose Zao, your cozy retreat in Yamagata, offering access to hot springs and ski adventures in Japan's beautiful countryside.
Ōmiya Ryokan
5.8 km
Discover the tranquility of Ōmiya Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen, where serene hot springs and exquisite cuisine await.
Ryokan Yoshidaya
5.8 km
Discover the tranquility of Ryokan Yoshidaya, a traditional Japanese inn in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen area, perfect for relaxation and cultural immersion.
Zao Onsen Shitayu Public Bathhouse
5.9 km
Experience the calming essence of traditional Japanese onsen at Zao Onsen Shitayu Public Bathhouse, a serene retreat in Yamagata's breathtaking mountains.
Zao Onsen Yutabiya TAKAYUDO
5.9 km
Explore Zao Onsen Yutabiya TAKAYUDO for unique souvenirs, local culture, and essential travel tips in the stunning Yamagata region of Japan.
旅館 湯の宿 伊藤屋
5.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich traditions of Japan at Zaoonsen Inn, your perfect escape in Yamagata.
Zao Sky Cable Uwanodai Station
5.9 km
Discover breathtaking views and thrilling adventures at Zao Sky Cable Uwanodai Station, the perfect gateway to Yamagata's stunning landscapes.
蔵王温泉
6.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and therapeutic hot springs of Zao Onsen, a must-visit destination for relaxation and adventure in Yamagata, Japan.
Zao Onsen Bus Terminal
6.0 km
Discover the beauty of Yamagata at Zao Onsen Bus Terminal, your gateway to the region's stunning hot springs and breathtaking mountain adventures.
Zao Onsen Tourist Association Information Center chuo ropeway
6.0 km
Uncover the wonders of Zao Onsen at the Tourist Information Center, your guide to adventures in this breathtaking Japanese hot spring destination.
Zao Super Slider
6.0 km
Experience the thrill of Zao Super Slider, a theme park in Yamagata, Japan, offering breathtaking alpine slides and family-friendly attractions amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Unmissable attractions to see
Zaō Quasi-National Park
1.3 km
Experience the breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife at Zaō Quasi-National Park, a natural paradise in Yamagata, Japan.
Zao Echo Line
1.6 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty and scenic vistas of the Zao Echo Line, a must-visit attraction in Miyagi, Japan.
Ubagami
1.8 km
Explore the historical beauty of Ubagami in Yamagata, a cultural treasure that showcases Japan's rich heritage and stunning architecture.
Mount Zaō
1.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Mount Zao, a stunning mountain peak in Yamagata, Japan, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
蔵王の樹氷（山形県）
2.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Juhyo, the snow monsters of Zao Onsen, a must-visit winter wonderland in Yamagata, Japan.
Zaojizoson
2.6 km
Discover the serene beauty and spiritual significance of Zaojizoson in Yamagata, Japan, a perfect blend of nature and culture.
Jizo Sancho Station
2.6 km
Experience the stunning views and unique beauty of Jizo Sancho Station, a premier mountain cable car attraction in Yamagata, Japan.
三宝荒神山
2.7 km
Discover Sanbōzan in Yamagata, where nature, culture, and tranquility converge for an unforgettable travel experience.
懺悔坂
2.8 km
Discover Zao Onsen: A Tranquil Hot Spring Retreat in Yamagata, Japan, Perfect for Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers Alike.
Iroha Marsh
3.1 km
Explore the serene Iroha Marsh in Kaminoyama, Yamagata - a picturesque escape into nature with stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife.
観松平
3.2 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Zao, Yamagata, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
トニー・ザイラー氏顕彰碑
3.5 km
Discover the enchanting Zao Onsen and Toni Sailer Ropeway in Yamagata, where breathtaking views and soothing hot springs await your exploration.
Zao Onsen Ski Resort (Central Run)
4.4 km
Experience the enchanting Zao Onsen Ski Resort in Yamagata, Japan - a perfect blend of thrilling skiing and relaxing hot springs.
鳥兜山山頂
4.4 km
Experience breathtaking views at Zaoonsen Observation Deck in Yamagata, where nature and tranquility come together in perfect harmony.
鳥兜駅
4.5 km
Experience the serene beauty and cultural richness of Zaoonsen, a tranquil hot spring destination in the heart of Yamagata, Japan.
Essential places to dine
蔵王ロープウェイ㈱ レストラン山頂
2.6 km
Experience authentic soba noodles with breathtaking views at Zao Ropeway Restaurant, a must-visit culinary gem in Yamagata's stunning mountain landscape.
三五郎小屋
4.4 km
Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Sangoro Koya in Yamagata—where tradition meets taste in every dish.
レストラン ベルベル中央
4.4 km
Experience authentic Japanese ramen at Restaurant Beruberu Chuo in Zaoonsen - where tradition meets flavor in every bowl.
蔵王ロープウェイ（株）
5.5 km
Discover breathtaking mountain views and thrilling outdoor adventures at Zao Ropeway in Yamagata.
蔵王ロープウェイ（株） レストラン黒姫Ⅰ
5.5 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Zao's Black Princess Restaurant amidst stunning mountain views.
レストラン横倉
5.6 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at レストラン横倉 in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen area.
Sugenoya
5.6 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Sugenoya in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen area.
蔵王温泉 善七乃湯 Oohira Hotel
5.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Zao Onsen at Oohira Hotel - a perfect blend of traditional hospitality and rejuvenating hot springs.
あきば食堂
5.6 km
Savor authentic Japanese ramen in the heart of Yamagata's Zaoonsen, where tradition meets flavor in every delicious bowl.
Shiba Mama no Omise
5.7 km
Discover Shiba Mama no Omise in Zao Onsen – where authentic vegetarian cuisine meets warm Japanese hospitality amidst stunning natural beauty.
なしぇる
5.7 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at なしぇる in Zaoonsen - where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.
湯けむり屋台つまみ
5.7 km
Discover the flavors of Japan at 湯けむり屋台つまみ in Yamagata – where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Touen
5.7 km
Discover the true taste of Japan at Touen - where authentic Yakiniku meets warm hospitality in beautiful Zaoonsen.
Kasheru
5.7 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Kasheru in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen area - where tradition meets taste.
Zaonoie
5.7 km
Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Zaonoie, Yamagata's premier ramen restaurant nestled in the scenic Zaoonsen area.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
36SHOP
5.5 km
Explore 36SHOP in Zaoonsen for unique Japanese souvenirs that embody the charm and artistry of Yamagata's rich cultural heritage.
Otochaya
5.6 km
Discover Otochaya, a charming cafe in Yamagata offering delightful coffee and homemade treats in a cozy atmosphere.
Zao Specialty Museum Notoya
5.6 km
Explore the rich culture of Yamagata at Zao Specialty Museum Notoya, where unique souvenirs and local crafts await every traveler.
（株）フレッシュフーズ蔵王
5.7 km
Discover the finest selection of fresh fish at Fresh Foods Zao, a culinary gem in the heart of Yamagata's Zaoonsen region.
Lawson Yamagata Zaoonsen
5.8 km
Discover convenience at Lawson Yamagata Zaoonsen, your go-to stop for snacks, ATM services, and travel essentials in the heart of Japan's scenic Zaoonsen area.
TRUNKBASE蔵王店
5.8 km
Discover TRUNKBASE蔵王店 in Yamagata: the ultimate ski shop for enthusiasts exploring Japan's winter wonderland.
山口餅屋(やまぐちもちや)
5.8 km
Experience the essence of Japanese culture with exquisite sweets and traditional meals at Yamaguchi Mochiya in Zaoonsen, Yamagata.
堀畜産（有） 蔵王店
5.8 km
Discover the flavors of Yamagata at 堀畜産（有） 蔵王店, a premier butcher shop offering fresh, local meats and artisanal products.
山形スワローレンタサービス（株） 蔵王店
5.8 km
Experience the best of Zao Onsen skiing with top-notch rental services and expert guidance at Yamagata Swallow Rental Service.
Jizake Yosaburo
5.8 km
Explore exquisite local sake at Jizake Yosaburo, a premier liquor store in Yamagata's beautiful Zaoonsen area, perfect for sake lovers and tourists.
ROSSIGNOL STORE
5.9 km
Explore outdoor adventures at Rossignol Store, Yamagata's premier shopping destination for quality gear and apparel.
Zao Souvenir Center Marushichi
5.9 km
Discover authentic Yamagata treasures at Zao Souvenir Center Marushichi, your gateway to unique regional crafts and local delicacies.
stand MY
5.9 km
Discover Stand MY in Yamagata: where delightful snacks meet exquisite Japanese cuisine in a cozy setting that captures the heart of local dining.
Yoneya Department Store
5.9 km
Explore Yoneya Department Store for authentic Japanese souvenirs, local delicacies, and unique gifts in the beautiful Zaoonsen area of Yamagata.
Chamonix
5.9 km
Discover Chamonix, a cozy coffee shop in Yamagata offering artisanal brews, delightful pastries, and a warm, inviting atmosphere for all visitors.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
レストハウス101
5.7 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Japan at レストハウス101, a cozy restaurant in Zaoonsen, Yamagata, serving delicious local cuisine.
湯けむり屋台つまみ
5.7 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at 湯けむり屋台つまみ, a culinary gem in the heart of Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen.
Tsumami: Yamagata Sake Museum & Bar
5.7 km
Experience the heart of Yamagata's sake culture at Tsumami: Yamagata Sake Museum & Bar, where tradition meets taste.
World Cafe PALETTE （ワールドカフェ パレット）
5.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of cafe culture and bar vibes at World Cafe PALETTE in Yamagata, offering delicious food and drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Petit Resort Hotel Der Barte
5.8 km
Experience the charm and tranquility of Petit Resort Hotel Der Barte, your perfect getaway in Yamagata's beautiful Zaoonsen area.
食堂 雪ぐら
5.8 km
Discover the flavors of Yamagata at Shokudo Yukigura, where authentic Japanese cuisine meets a tranquil dining experience in Zaoonsen.
Cafe ALPINA
6.0 km
Experience the flavors of Yamagata at Cafe ALPINA, a cozy restaurant offering local dishes and stunning views in the heart of Zaoonsen.
オーベルジュ樹氷 ( Auberge Juhyo)
6.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of Japanese hospitality and an exquisite whiskey selection at Auberge Juhyo in the serene Zaoonsen area of Yamagata.
Zao Brewery
12.4 km
Experience the artistry of craft beer at Zao Brewery, where tradition meets innovation in the heart of Yamagata's scenic landscapes.
SANRINA from ZAO BREWERY
13.4 km
Discover the essence of Japanese craftsmanship at SANRINA from ZAO BREWERY, where artisanal beers meet local cuisine in a cozy brewpub setting.
Rock'n Roll & Pro Wrestling Bar THE HAGGY
15.7 km
Discover the ultimate fusion of rock music and pro wrestling at THE HAGGY, a vibrant bar in Yamagata, Japan, perfect for fans and nightlife lovers.
Kaburetta
16.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Kaburetta, a modern izakaya in Yamagata, blending traditional dishes with contemporary culinary artistry.
MEXICAN CAFE & CANTINA 「Muchas」
16.1 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors and vibrant culture at Muchas Mexican Cafe & Cantina in Yamagata, a hidden gem for food lovers.
HighballBAR YAMAGATA 1971
16.2 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail scene at HighballBAR YAMAGATA 1971, where every drink celebrates the essence of Yamagata's nightlife.
50's cocktail's bar Cool (クール)
16.2 km
Discover the charm of 50's Cocktail Bar Cool in Yamagata, where classic cocktails and a nostalgic ambiance create unforgettable memories.
