Mount Zao Range

Mount Zao Range

Mount Zao Range is an active volcanic group, part of Japan’s Ou Mountains, situated at the southern border between Miyagi and Yamagata prefectures. It is listed among Japan’s "100 Famous Mountains" as "Mount Zao," with its main peak, Kumanodake, located on the Yamagata side at an elevation of 1,841 meters.

Mount Zao Range is a famous tourist destination in Japan, renowned globally for its Kamado Crater, hot springs, and ski resorts. The Kamado Crater is a volcanic crater lake that is 27 meters deep and 1,000 meters in circumference. Its water color changes with the seasons, which is why it is often called the Five Color Lake. It is considered the heart of Mount Zao and is regarded as its symbol. There are several hiking trails from the mountain base to Kamado, attracting many hiking enthusiasts from spring to summer.

Due to volcanic activity, Mount Zao Range has numerous hot springs that have been highly regarded in the Tohoku region since ancient times. Visitors can relax in these hot springs after enjoying the scenic views — a truly soothing experience. Ski enthusiasts should visit Mount Zao in winter to witness the world’s rare “juhyo” (tree ice) phenomenon while enjoying the thrill of skiing — an unforgettable experience.

Mount Zaō

Must-visit reason: One of Japan’s most famous volcanoes

Continent where the attraction is located: Asia【Asia】

Country/region where the attraction is located: Japan[Japan]

Province/state where the attraction is located: Yamagata Prefecture and Miyagi Prefecture [Yamagata Prefecture and Miyagi Prefecture]