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Zao Onsen Ski Resort

Name: Zao Onsen Ski Resort
Address: Zaoonsen, Yamagata, 990-2301, Japan
Rating: 4.4

4.4 (200)・Ski Resort・Tourist Attraction・Sports Activity Location・Point Of Interest・Establishment

Zao Onsen Ski Resort in Yamagata Prefecture is a magical destination famous for its incredible "snow monsters" – trees covered in snow and ice that look like mythical creatures. This phenomenon, caused by freezing winds and heavy snowfall, creates a surreal and beautiful landscape that draws visitors from around the world.

The resort offers diverse terrain with 14 lifts and 12 courses, catering to all skill levels. From gentle slopes for beginners to challenging runs for experts, there's something for everyone. The longest run stretches 10 kilometers, offering a breathtaking journey down the mountain.

One of the unique features of Zao Onsen is its combination of skiing and hot springs. The resort's hot springs, some of the oldest in Japan, are perfect for soaking tired muscles after a day on the slopes. These natural baths, rich in minerals, are believed to have healing properties.

The resort village adds to the charm with its traditional Japanese atmosphere. Quaint inns, known as ryokan, offer a cozy place to stay, and the local cuisine is a treat. Be sure to try Yamagata beef and other regional dishes.

Zao Onsen offers night tours to see the illuminated snow monsters, creating a fairy-tale-like experience for those interested in more than just skiing. The ropeway provides stunning views of the entire area, making it a great spot for photography enthusiasts.

With its unique snow monsters, varied ski terrain, rejuvenating hot springs, and charming village, Zao Onsen Ski Resort is a winter wonderland that offers a rich and memorable experience for all visitors.

Hours:

8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Last lift at 4:50 PM)

Closed:

Open daily during the ski season (typically early December to early May)

Available:

Seasonal (Winter)

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Fees:

Adult 1-day ticket: 4,200 Yen

Child 1-day ticket: 2,100 Yen

Hours

Monday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Saturday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Phone

+81 23-694-9617

Website

www.zao-ski.or.jp

The area

Address

Zaoonsen, Yamagata, 990-2301, Japan

Top ways to experience Zao Onsen Ski Resort

5 days

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What other travelers are saying about Zao Onsen Ski Resort

A frustrating experience at this open ski area. It’s easy to get lost, and I somehow managed to lose my cell phone in the process. There are too many flat areas where you’re forced to take off your snowboard and walk—definitely not ideal. The weather didn’t help, and to top it off, there were way too many non-skiers taking the cable car up just for photos, blocking the way for those of us trying to actually ski. Not the best place for serious snow sports enthusiasts!

Dave Huang

Jan 3, 2025

Best experience in Japan. You have to check the weather first. On a fine day, the monster are visible and you can play with snow. We took the ropeway. There are 2 station on the way. Last one is the main spot to see the mighty snow monster. There is also ski area and onsen area. Ropeway round trip price is around 4200 yen. At night there are some illumination also. It was freezing ❄️ cold. Must wear snow boots and take heat patch. It will helpful to survive 😅. Once in a life time experience as Yamagata has one of the highest snowfall area. For ski, pre booking is must. There are restaurant on the last stop. On the first floor, one suvenior shop is there. Vending machine is available to buy hot drinks. Washroom facilities are also in good condition. 10/10 ( as i get the perfect views and nice weather ) in

Sadia Noon Oishe

Jan 14, 2025

Nice view from the top with the clear sky. You can go easily from Yamagata Station. But please be cautioned, the ropeway can be crowded during the holiday. Please check and reserve for priority access if you don't want to wait.

Patjira D.

Jan 12, 2025

Beautiful scenery.. But… the chairlift design is pretty convoluted and it’s extremely difficult to get to the top (unless you’re willing to wait in line for an hour for cable car) Slopes are just okay and it felt like I spent the session more on getting to and riding the scattered chairlifts than I did on skiing

Chi Ho Wong

Jan 18, 2025

It's not cheap and it can get crowded in places but it is a beautiful area with many different slopes to explore. The mid area has a restaurant and the area is beautiful. I loved it. The snow conditions was fluffy and covered everywhere. The road leading up to the bottom gondola section was mostly clear of snow and ice. Once you get onto the slopes the snow cover is excellent. The variety of slopes is quite good and varied for different abilities. Many of them are quite wide so I never worried about crowding on the slope.