Discover the Serenity of Zaoonsen: A Natural Gem in Yamagata
Experience the tranquil beauty of Zaoonsen, a hot spring paradise in Yamagata, where relaxation meets nature's wonders.
Zaoonsen is a picturesque hot spring area nestled in Yamagata, Japan, offering tourists a perfect blend of natural beauty, soothing hot springs, and cultural charm. A true paradise for relaxation and exploration.
A brief summary to どんどんびき（見返り滝）
- 27 Zaoonsen, Yamagata, Zaoonsen, Yamagata, 990-2301, JP
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during the autumn months for stunning foliage and a more tranquil atmosphere.
- Consider staying overnight at a ryokan to fully enjoy the onsen experience.
- Bring a swimsuit if you wish to try mixed bathing options at some onsen facilities.
- Check the local events calendar for seasonal festivals and cultural activities.
- Try local delicacies such as Yamagata beef and seasonal vegetables at nearby restaurants.
Getting There
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Car
From Zao Onsen, head south on Route 13 for about 5 km. Look for signs directing you to Don Don Biki (見返り滝). You'll need to turn off the main road and follow the smaller road leading to the waterfall. There is parking available near the waterfall, which may cost around 500 yen for the day.
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Public Transportation
Take a local bus from Zao Onsen to the nearest bus stop to どんどんびき（見返り滝）. The bus departs from the Zao Onsen Bus Terminal. Make sure to check the schedule in advance as the frequency may vary. The fare is approximately 600 yen. Once you arrive at the stop, it's about a 10-minute walk to the waterfall. Follow the path indicated by signs toward Don Don Biki.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk from Zao Onsen, it will take around 1 hour. Start at the Zao Onsen Tourist Information Center and head toward the Zao Onsen Shrine. From there, follow the trail signs that lead to どんどんびき（見返り滝）. The path is well-marked, but it can be steep in certain areas. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
Discover more about どんどんびき（見返り滝）
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Zao Onsen Shitayu Public Bathhouse
0.1 km
Experience the calming essence of traditional Japanese onsen at Zao Onsen Shitayu Public Bathhouse, a serene retreat in Yamagata's breathtaking mountains.
旅館 湯の宿 伊藤屋
0.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich traditions of Japan at Zaoonsen Inn, your perfect escape in Yamagata.
Zao Onsen Yutabiya TAKAYUDO
0.1 km
Explore Zao Onsen Yutabiya TAKAYUDO for unique souvenirs, local culture, and essential travel tips in the stunning Yamagata region of Japan.
蔵王温泉
0.1 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 Tourist Association Information Center chuo ropeway
0.1 km
Uncover the wonders of Zao Onsen at the Tourist Information Center, your guide to adventures in this breathtaking Japanese hot spring destination.
Zao Onsen Bus Terminal
0.1 km
Discover the beauty of Yamagata at Zao Onsen Bus Terminal, your gateway to the region's stunning hot springs and breathtaking mountain adventures.
Ryokan Yoshidaya
0.2 km
Discover the tranquility of Ryokan Yoshidaya, a traditional Japanese inn in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen area, perfect for relaxation and cultural immersion.
Ōmiya Ryokan
0.2 km
Discover the tranquility of Ōmiya Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen, where serene hot springs and exquisite cuisine await.
蔵王温泉観光協会
0.3 km
Unwind in the natural beauty of Zao Onsen, a tranquil hot spring resort in Yamagata, offering stunning landscapes and rejuvenating therapeutic waters.
Zao Onsen & Ski Lodge Scole
0.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Zao Onsen & Ski Lodge Scole, nestled in the beautiful Yamagata region of Japan.
Wald Berg
0.4 km
Discover the serenity and charm of Wald Berg, a traditional Japanese inn in Yamagata, offering a unique cultural experience amidst stunning natural beauty.
Zao Sky Cable Uwanodai Station
0.5 km
Discover breathtaking views and thrilling adventures at Zao Sky Cable Uwanodai Station, the perfect gateway to Yamagata's stunning landscapes.
Lodge Christmas Rose Zao
0.5 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.
Zao Super Slider
0.6 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.
JUHYO KOGEN STATION
2.2 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and outdoor adventures at JUHYO KOGEN STATION in the Zao Mountains, Japan.
Unmissable attractions to see
南無阿弥陀仏碑
0.0 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Zaoonsen, a picturesque hot spring town in Yamagata, Japan, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
蔵王温泉
0.1 km
Experience the healing hot springs and stunning landscapes of Zao Onsen, a tranquil retreat in Yamagata, Japan, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Yunohana Chaya Shinzaemon no Yu
0.3 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and rejuvenating waters of Yunohana Chaya Shinzaemon no Yu, a premier outdoor bath in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen.
Genshichi Roten no yu Zao Onsen
0.3 km
Discover relaxation at Genshichi Roten no Yu, a serene outdoor onsen nestled in the scenic beauty of Zao Onsen, Yamagata.
川柳坂
0.3 km
Experience tranquility at Zaoonsen, a stunning hot spring resort in Yamagata, where nature meets relaxation and traditional Japanese culture thrives.
蔵王スキー滑走像
0.6 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Zao Onsen Ski Resort, where thrilling winter sports meet relaxing hot springs in Yamagata, Japan.
Zao Onsen Dairotenburo
0.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Zao Onsen Dairotenburo, a breathtaking outdoor hot spring in the heart of Yamagata's stunning landscapes.
天空回廊
0.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tenku-no-Kan in Yamagata, a peaceful tourist attraction surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and tranquility.
Zao Ropeway Zao Sanroku Station
0.6 km
Experience breathtaking views and natural beauty at the Zao Ropeway, the gateway to Yamagata's stunning mountain landscapes and iconic snow monsters.
Zao Onsen Ski Resort
0.7 km
Experience the thrill of skiing and the serenity of onsen bathing at Zao Onsen Ski Resort, a stunning winter escape in Yamagata, Japan.
二渡川（温泉湧出）
0.8 km
Explore the serene beauty of Zaoonsen in Yamagata, Japan, where soothing hot springs meet stunning natural landscapes for a perfect retreat.
「振向く」佐藤助雄
0.9 km
Explore the serene landscapes and cultural richness of Omori Ogura, a hidden gem in Kaminoyama, Yamagata, perfect for a peaceful getaway.
斎藤茂吉歌碑
1.0 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and rich culture of Kaminoyama at Omori Ogura, a stunning tourist attraction in Yamagata, Japan.
鴫の谷地沼
1.0 km
Explore the serene landscapes and rejuvenating hot springs of Zaoonsen Valley, a hidden gem in Japan's Yamagata region, perfect for nature lovers.
横倉滝
1.2 km
Explore Zao Onsen, a serene hot spring resort in Yamagata, offering stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and soothing mineral waters for relaxation.
Essential places to dine
Okumura Sobaya
0.0 km
Savor authentic Japanese ramen at Okumura Sobaya in Zaoonsen – where tradition meets flavor in every delicious bowl.
Izakaya Kiwa
0.1 km
Discover the charm of traditional izakaya dining at Izakaya Kiwa in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen area.
Sushi Kiraku
0.1 km
Discover authentic sushi and traditional Japanese dishes at Sushi Kiraku in Yamagata – a culinary delight not to be missed.
Hachiman
0.1 km
Savor authentic local cuisine at Hachiman in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen area—where tradition meets taste.
kajimaya ramen かじまやラーメン
0.1 km
Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Kajimaya Ramen in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen region, where every bowl tells a story.
湯けむり屋台つまみ
0.2 km
Discover the flavors of Japan at 湯けむり屋台つまみ in Yamagata – where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Kasheru
0.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Kasheru in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen area - where tradition meets taste.
Tomitaya
0.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Tomitaya, where freshly made Soba noodles and traditional dishes await you in beautiful Zaoonsen.
なしぇる
0.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at なしぇる in Zaoonsen - where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.
KOTOBUKI （Y.N.S.C Ltd）
0.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at KOTOBUKI in Yamagata, where sukiyaki takes center stage amid a warm and inviting atmosphere.
蔵王 Cafe&bar Chotto
0.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese flavors at 蔵王 Cafe&bar Chotto - where delightful dishes meet serene surroundings.
Touen
0.2 km
Discover the true taste of Japan at Touen - where authentic Yakiniku meets warm hospitality in beautiful Zaoonsen.
Zaonoie
0.3 km
Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Zaonoie, Yamagata's premier ramen restaurant nestled in the scenic Zaoonsen area.
Sugenoya
0.3 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Sugenoya in Yamagata's scenic Zaoonsen area.
Shiba Mama no Omise
0.3 km
Discover Shiba Mama no Omise in Zao Onsen – where authentic vegetarian cuisine meets warm Japanese hospitality amidst stunning natural beauty.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
stand MY
0.0 km
Discover Stand MY in Yamagata: where delightful snacks meet exquisite Japanese cuisine in a cozy setting that captures the heart of local dining.
ROSSIGNOL STORE
0.0 km
Explore outdoor adventures at Rossignol Store, Yamagata's premier shopping destination for quality gear and apparel.
Yoneya Department Store
0.0 km
Explore Yoneya Department Store for authentic Japanese souvenirs, local delicacies, and unique gifts in the beautiful Zaoonsen area of Yamagata.
山形スワローレンタサービス（株） 蔵王店
0.1 km
Experience the best of Zao Onsen skiing with top-notch rental services and expert guidance at Yamagata Swallow Rental Service.
TRUNKBASE蔵王店
0.1 km
Discover TRUNKBASE蔵王店 in Yamagata: the ultimate ski shop for enthusiasts exploring Japan's winter wonderland.
堀畜産（有） 蔵王店
0.1 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.
Zao Souvenir Center Marushichi
0.1 km
Discover authentic Yamagata treasures at Zao Souvenir Center Marushichi, your gateway to unique regional crafts and local delicacies.
白樺商店
0.1 km
Discover unique local crafts and mementos at 白樺商店, the charming souvenir store in Yamagata's beautiful Zaoonsen area.
Jizake Yosaburo
0.1 km
Explore exquisite local sake at Jizake Yosaburo, a premier liquor store in Yamagata's beautiful Zaoonsen area, perfect for sake lovers and tourists.
Sailor Hutte
0.1 km
Discover the charm of Sailor Hutte, a cozy coffee shop in Zao Onsen offering delightful brews and a warm atmosphere amid stunning mountain views.
山口餅屋(やまぐちもちや)
0.1 km
Experience the essence of Japanese culture with exquisite sweets and traditional meals at Yamaguchi Mochiya in Zaoonsen, Yamagata.
Lawson Yamagata Zaoonsen
0.2 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.
Aelook
0.4 km
Discover Aelook in Yamagata - where exceptional eyewear meets personalized eye care in the serene backdrop of Zaoonsen.
Chamonix
0.4 km
Discover Chamonix, a cozy coffee shop in Yamagata offering artisanal brews, delightful pastries, and a warm, inviting atmosphere for all visitors.
Otochaya
0.4 km
Discover Otochaya, a charming cafe in Yamagata offering delightful coffee and homemade treats in a cozy atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tsumami: Yamagata Sake Museum & Bar
0.2 km
Experience the heart of Yamagata's sake culture at Tsumami: Yamagata Sake Museum & Bar, where tradition meets taste.
湯けむり屋台つまみ
0.2 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.
食堂 雪ぐら
0.2 km
Discover the flavors of Yamagata at Shokudo Yukigura, where authentic Japanese cuisine meets a tranquil dining experience in Zaoonsen.
World Cafe PALETTE （ワールドカフェ パレット）
0.3 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.
レストハウス101
0.3 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.
Petit Resort Hotel Der Barte
0.4 km
Experience the charm and tranquility of Petit Resort Hotel Der Barte, your perfect getaway in Yamagata's beautiful Zaoonsen area.
オーベルジュ樹氷 ( Auberge Juhyo)
0.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of Japanese hospitality and an exquisite whiskey selection at Auberge Juhyo in the serene Zaoonsen area of Yamagata.
Cafe ALPINA
0.5 km
Experience the flavors of Yamagata at Cafe ALPINA, a cozy restaurant offering local dishes and stunning views in the heart of Zaoonsen.
Zao Brewery
6.8 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
7.7 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
10.1 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.
MEXICAN CAFE & CANTINA 「Muchas」
10.4 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors and vibrant culture at Muchas Mexican Cafe & Cantina in Yamagata, a hidden gem for food lovers.
HighballBAR YAMAGATA 1971
10.6 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)
10.6 km
Discover the charm of 50's Cocktail Bar Cool in Yamagata, where classic cocktails and a nostalgic ambiance create unforgettable memories.
Kaburetta
10.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Kaburetta, a modern izakaya in Yamagata, blending traditional dishes with contemporary culinary artistry.
