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| The view from the top of Zao on a clear winter's day is one of the most beautiful sights you can see in Japan. The valley below cradling the cities of Kaminoyama, Yamagata and Tendo, the Asahi mountain range behind, the silk-like snow covered Mount Gassan and even the peak of Mount Chokai in the far North-west are highlighted spectacularly by the deep blue sky and the pure white surroundings. |
| Zao is one of the largest ski areas in Japan, with some 34 lifts and over 31km of ski-runs to suit all skiers. For the expert there is the 38 degrees Yokokura 'Wall', while beginners may like to try the gentler slopes of Diamond Valley. The ski day begins at 8:30 and goes on until 5:00 when some of the lower slopes are lit for night-skiing until 9:00. |
 While Zao is most famous as a ski area, it is truly a four seasons resort. The spring flowers, cool temperatures of summer and autumn foliage make Zao a popular destination for hikers, mountain bikers and lovers of the outdoors in general. There are numerous hiking courses linking the small lakes and peaks of Zao, and eventually leading to the Opal-blue Okama crater lake which was formed after an eruption 378 years ago. In addition to Zao's varied topography and foliage, animal life including monkeys and the kamoshika antelope can be seen.
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To soak away the aches of the daytime activities Zao has around 120 hotels and lodges with hot spring baths. In addition to the hotel baths, there are 3 public baths; two indoor and one outdoor. Unfortunately the outdoor one is closed during winter, but it can be seen from the bridge at the foot of the 'sunrise' chair lifts. The two indoor baths are located in the hot-spring area at the foot of the slopes.
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45 minutes by bus from Yamagata station(One bus every hour). Also see 'Local boy's tip' below. |
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 For those with transport Nishi-Zao Tenbodai lookout provides a wonderful night view of Yamagata and Kaminoyama cities. The stars above are beautiful from any part of Zao.
Zao is officially a district of Yamagata city that stretches down to the city itself. To get to the mountain part, take the busses for Zao Onsen. Do not be confused by Zao train station on the Ou line - this is nowhere near the hiking or skiing areas and there is nothing really there other than the 'toilet park'! (Yep, a park with various types of toilet in it run by a local toilet maker!!!) |
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