About Zao Town

About Zao Town

What is “Zao Town”?

The wonderful resort highland, Zao

The wonderful resort highland, Zao
Zao Town is a town for sightseeing and argriculture, located at the east side of Mount Zao, southwest of Miyagi. Famous sightseeing spots include snow monster trees, Okama crater, Zao Eco-line and the famous hot spa Toogattaonsen with over 400 years of history. There are various kinds of events throughout the year, and the two large-scale skiing resorts and golf courses are simply the pride of Zao Town. Fruits such as pear and peach are famous agricultural products of this area. It is simply a town with great food.

Snow Monsters

Snow Monsters
Snow monsters refers to the frost-covered Maries’ fir trees during bright, sunny days. Only under certain particular weather conditions can this phenomenon be observed. It is highly rare and only available at limited locations. They are so beautiful like artworks of nature.(another location where this phenomenon can be found is Germany).
The trees are all covered by snow in winter, and they are known as Juhyo or “snow monsters” by the locals, and they are the symbol of Zao in winter.
You can enjoy driving on the snow and watch the snow monster trees here in Zao.

Okama crater

Okama crater is the major attraction for tourists in Zao, and it lies in a crater formed by a volcanic eruption 3,000 years ago. It is surrounded by the Karita mountain, Kumano mountain and the Goshoku (five-color) mountain.The lake is characterized by its natural and beautiful emerald-green color. And as it looks like a kettle filled with water, it is called “Okama” (meaning kettle in Japanese). A magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean can be enjoyed at Okama crater on clear days. It only takes 5-minute walk from Okama Lake to the peak, in where you can find a beautiful restaurant house.

Toogattaonsen hot spa

Toogattaonsen hot spa opened over 400 years ago, and is now popular among visitors. It has become a major attraction for visitors, and the numbers of hotel and public bath houses keep on increasing. The hot spa resort can be easily reached by an hour bus ride from Sendai Station. The place is also known by its delicious food, one-day hot spa programs and shops with good souvenirs. Last but not least, there are various events throughout the year.

Enquiry

  • Zao Town Sightseeing Information Counter

    Here for information, pamphlet and image use application for personal tourists
    Zao Town Sightseeing Information Counter
    (Opening Hours: 09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.)
    33 Toogattaonsen Naka-machi, Zao Town, Gatta-gun, Miyagi Prefecture 989-0912, Japan
    TEL: (+81) 0224-34-2725
    TEL: (+81) 0224-34-2772

  • Institute of Zao Town Sightseeing & Products Association

    For corporations & agencies in tourism industry
    Institute of Zao Town Sightseeing & Products Association
    135 Toogattaonsen Shinchi Nishiurayama 36, Zao Town, Gatta-gun, Miyagi Prefecture 989-0916, Japan
    TEL: (+81) 0224-34-4401
    TEL: (+81) 0224-34-4402

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Introduction of Zao-sama
The spring shows the charm of Zao town
Shiroishi Sightseeing Navigation

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Introduction of Zao-sama
The spring shows the charm of Zao town

Guide map

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Shiroishi Sightseeing Navigation

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