Zao Onsen Ski Resort is a popular ski resort located in the Yamagata Prefecture of Japan. It is renowned for its stunning winter scenery, excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities, and its unique “snow monsters,” which are trees covered in heavy snow and ice that create a surreal and beautiful landscape.
The resort offers a variety of slopes suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders. The slopes are well-maintained, and there are English-speaking instructors available for lessons. Zao Onsen features over 40 kilometers of ski runs with a range of terrains, including groomed slopes, moguls, and off-piste areas. The resort also has a terrain park for freestyle enthusiasts.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Zao Onsen offers other winter activities like snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice skating.
The ski season at Zao Onsen typically runs from December to early May, depending on snow conditions.
The Zao Onsen Ski Resort also has lodging available on-site, including a traditional Japanese hot spring resort. After a day on the slopes, visitors can relax in these blissful natural hot springs.
Hours and Admission
- Ski Season: Typically Mid December to Early May
- Ski Lift Pass: 6300JPY - Full Day, 5200JPY - Half day
- Official Website
Where To Stay
Zao Shiki no Hotel
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Beautiful Ryokan in Zao Onsen, with stunning indoor and outdoor onsens to soak in after a busy day on the slopes.
Book Now (Booking.com)Book Now (Agoda)Takamiya Ryokan Miyamaso
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Modern Japanese Ryokan in a beautiful historic building with small, private onsens.
Book Now (Booking.com)Book Now (Agoda)Meitoya So
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Ryokan with both Japanese and western style rooms, with a traditional style onsen room.
Book Now (Booking.com)Book Now (Agoda)Accessing Zao Onsen Ski Resort
Zao Onsen is a remote town in the mountains of Yamagata Prefecture. No Public transport services the town, so the easiest way to access the ski resort is via a private car.
Zao Onsen Ski Resort is about a 40 minute drive from Yamagata City. There is also a bus which regularily operates from Yamagata Station, to Zao Onsen. a One way trip on the bus costs 1000JPY, and the timetable can be found here (BUS TIMETABLE).
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