Zaō(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For true ski-in/ski-out convenience, Hyatt Regency Zaō and Zaō Prince Hotel stand out. Both are located directly at the base of Zaō Ski Resort, offering private access to slopes and on-site ski rental services. The Hyatt features modern Japanese-Western fusion design with panoramic mountain views, while the Prince offers spacious family suites and indoor pools. Their proximity ensures seamless transitions between skiing and relaxation, ideal for winter sports enthusiasts seeking luxury and efficiency.

The Zaō Onsen Area is ideal for first-time visitors, as it centralizes key attractions: Zaō Shrine, Zaō Hot Springs, and easy access to the Zaō Ski Resort. Hotels like Zaō Onsen Hotel and RISONARE Zaō by Hoshino Resorts offer warm hospitality, traditional ryokan experiences, and free shuttle buses to nearby sites. With well-paved walkways and multilingual staff, this district balances convenience, culture, and comfort—perfect for travelers exploring the region’s natural beauty and seasonal charm.

Visitors to Zaō Town can participate in unique local traditions such as visiting Zaō Shrine, a centuries-old site dedicated to Zao Gongen, where rituals reflect Shugendō ascetic practices. During winter, join the Zaō Tree Ice Festival, witnessing frozen pine trees glisten under lights. Other immersive activities include wearing kimono for a stroll through the hot spring town, attending tea ceremony workshops, or learning woodcrafting using local cedar wood—each experience rooted in the region’s deep connection to nature and heritage.

Yes, RISONARE Zaō by Hoshino Resorts is highly recommended for families, featuring a dedicated children’s playroom, kid-sized onsen baths, and daily themed events like snow scavenger hunts and craft workshops. Zaō Prince Hotel also offers family rooms, baby cots, and an indoor swimming pool with water slides. Both properties provide child-friendly menus and organized excursions such as forest walks and snowman-building contests, ensuring memorable and stress-free stays for all ages.

Zaō Onsen is renowned for its strong alkaline sulfur-rich waters, known for skin regeneration and muscle relaxation. Many hotels, including Zaō Onsen Hotel, feature open-air baths (rotenburo) with stunning views of snow-capped mountains and forests. At Zaō Onsen Spa, guests can enjoy therapeutic treatments combining herbal compresses and massage. The mineral-rich water, sourced from deep underground volcanic aquifers, delivers a uniquely revitalizing soak that blends healing benefits with serene mountain ambiance.

The Zaō Tree Ice spectacle is visible from late December to mid-March, when sub-zero temperatures and morning fog create intricate ice formations on pine trees. Early morning hours—between 6 and 9 AM—are optimal for viewing, when sunlight refracts off the ice, creating a glowing effect. Access points include the Zaō Mountain Cable Car station and guided Tree Ice Walking Tours. Local guides explain the natural processes behind this rare phenomenon, enhancing the awe-inspiring experience.

Must-see landmarks include Zaō Shrine, a historic site dating back to the 8th century, famed for its vermilion torii gate and spiritual atmosphere. Zaō Mountain Observatory offers panoramic views of the volcanic landscape and tree ice forests via cable car. The Zaō Onsen Spa Complex features a striking glass dome architecture, perfect for photography. Additionally, the Zaō Ski Resort entrance plaza and Zaō Lake are iconic spots for both winter and summer visits, each showcasing the town’s natural grandeur.

Must-try dishes include Zaō-style grilled chicken marinated with local sansho pepper and honey, slow-roasted over charcoal; wild mountain vegetable tempura made from seasonal greens like ferns and bamboo shoots; and onsen tamago (hot spring egg) served with miso soup. In the Zaō Onsen Street, sample snow-view soba noodles made with pure mountain spring water. For a gourmet experience, visit Hoshino Resorts’ dining venues for the Zaō Seasons Kaiseki Menu, a multi-course meal highlighting regional ingredients and seasonal flavors.

From Sendai Station, take the JR Tōhoku Main Line to Zaō Station (~1 hour), then transfer to local buses or taxis. For those driving, use the Tōhoku Expressway to the Zaō Interchange. The Zaō Tourist Bus runs loop routes connecting major attractions and hotels, and the Zaō Pass grants unlimited rides. Many ski resorts and hotels offer free shuttle services to slopes and towns, making travel convenient. For off-season exploration, guided walking tours and bike rentals are available near Zaō Lake.

In summer, Zaō Town transforms into a lush alpine retreat. Hike the Zaō Mountain Trail leading to the summit, passing through ancient forests and shrines. Zaō Lake offers kayaking, fishing, and lakeside picnics amid cool mountain air. Visit Zaō Highland Ranch for horseback riding and cheese-making workshops. At night, join stargazing sessions in the dark-sky zone—ideal for viewing the Milky Way and meteor showers. These seasonal highlights make Zaō a year-round destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.