WinterThe snowy season is the perfect time to experience the charm of Mount Zao in Yamagata Prefecture. The “unbelievably beautiful” tree ice phenomenon was one of the most breathtaking sights of my winter snow trip—an absolute work of art from nature and a uniquely privileged photo spot. In winter, you can admire the tree ice and go skiing; in autumn, enjoy the fall foliage; in spring and summer, hike and explore the lakes. Year-round, you can also soak in hot springs and take the cable car for stunning views.
This isStop 5 of a 17-day winter journey across a quarter of Japan. Please first watch the followingYouTubevideo: (Mainland China viewers, please click this link)
Watch more videos and subscribe tomy YouTube channel
1. Scenic Spots Around Mount Zao (Spring, Summer, and Autumn)
- Ogama Crater Lake
An iconic attraction of Mount Zao, this 330-meter-wide volcanic crater lake changes colors with the sunlight.
photo from samurai-japan.co
- Dodaira Marsh
A summer retreat located on a plateau at an altitude of 1,440 meters, featuring a dreamy lake that changes color with the light.
photo from sunalog.net
↓ Related article from this stop ↓: 【Fukushima Prefecture】A Northeast Japan Highlight – Travelogue of the Fall Foliage at Goshiki-numa Ponds in Iriyama – Japan’s Jiuzhaigou!? 
Fukushima Goshikinuma Lake
- ?no Tachi Marsh
A pond near the Zao Onsen town area, conveniently located and a great spot for a leisurely stroll.
- Hiking and Nature Walks
↑ Hiking Route Map(Click here)
2. External Transportation to Mount Zao
Step 1: Arrive at Yamagata Station and purchase the round-trip tree ice transportation package (see below)
Step 2: Take a Yamako Bus from Yamagata Station to the mountain base (Zao Onsen Bus Terminal)
Step 3: Walk from the base (Zao Onsen Bus Terminal) to the cable car station and take the cable car up the mountain to see the tree ice
Tree Ice Viewing – Discounted Transportation Package ¥4100 includes the round-trip for this option
1. Bus ticket 2. Cable car ticket to the tree ice area (does not include cable cars to ski areas).
At the exit of Yamagata Station,Yamagata Kotsu BusTickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter without a reservation. However, it is recommended to check in advance.Bus timetableto help plan your trip schedule. The 2017–18 season passwas announced and put on sale on 16/12, priced at:¥4100 (adult), with children at half price.The Juhyo (Tree Ice) Discount Pass release dates and prices may vary each year. Around December, please check thelatest updatespublished on the Yamagata Kotsu Bus official website.
3. Zao Area Transportation (to the Juhyo Viewing Area)
Zao Ropeway Route – Official Website Chinese Introduction:(Click here)
Note: The Juhyo viewing area and the ski area are not located in the same place. There are three ropeway routes connecting the mountain base to the summit (black solid lines in the diagram below), but only one (the rightmost) leads to the Juhyo viewing area. Alternatively, refer to theprevious year’s brochurefor a detailed map to understand better. Therefore, if you wish to ski as well, you will need to purchase tickets for the other two ropeway lines.
Local travel information and latest updates
Zao Onsen Ski Resort official website
Zao Onsen Tourism Association official website (has a Chinese version)
Zao Ropeway official website (has a Chinese version)
Zao Juhyo (Japanese website)
Related Articles
Winter Travel:
[Includes Video] 17 Days Across 1/4 of Japan – A Journey to Find the Most Beautiful Winter Snowscapes – Tohoku, Chubu, Hokuriku
【Yamagata Prefecture】Video – Ginzan Onsen Ryokan – A Real-Life Scene from Spirited Away – Northeast Japan Accommodation, Activities & Transport
【Fukushima Prefecture】Video – Winter Exclusive: Snow-Covered Tsuruga Castle, Aizu-Wakamatsu Seasonal Attractions & Festivals – Tohoku Transport
【Tochigi Prefecture】Nikko Yusenji Snow Cave Festival (Kamakura Matsuri) – Kanto Heritage Night View Tourist Info, Transport & Accommodation
(More →)
Tohoku Region:
Autumn Leaves Aren’t Just in Kyoto – A 5-Day Red Leaf Beauty Tour in Eastern & Northeastern Japan – Travelogue Index – Itinerary Planning Tips
(More→)
Karen (Qieyun)
A Hong Kong girl who loves solo adventures, photography, and exploring beautiful sights around the world. She seeks out exquisite restaurants and cafés. The world is so vast—there’s just too much beauty to share.
Subscribe to this site, and you’ll automatically receive an email whenever there’s a newblog post. →
LittleEggplanet Qieyun’s Travel Photography World: Your hub for travel stories, essays, videos, and more…
Facebook Page: Latest updates, daily moments…
Instagram: Photography works, Stories…
YouTube Channel:Travel videos, lifestyle Vlogs…