Miyagi Zao Sightseeing Navigation

Zao Echo Line

Nature

The nationally famous, the mecca of the beautiful coloured leaves

Located in between east to west in Zao Mountain Range, Zao Echo Line is the mountain road between Miyagi Prefecture and Yamagata Prefecture, opened in November, 1962. The road is closed in winter from early November to late April. You can see the snow walls from late April to mid May and the fresh leaves with lots of negative ion in summer. From late September, you can enjoy a drive in the beautiful autumn leaves in red and yellow.

Postal Code: 989-0916
Address: Zao Town, Katta-gun, Miyagi prefecture Kamiyama city, Yamagata prefecture
Business hour: Free access, It may be closed at night due to the icy roads. From early November to late April, free access during the period, It may be closed in snowy weathers
Remarks: information about closure ① From 5pm on early November to 11am of late April of the following year, the following roads are closed due to heavy snow. the roads between Sumikawa Snow Park entrance~the boarder of Miyagi and Yamagata Prefecture～Yamagata and Bodaira Kogen
As Zao High Line entrance is also included in the closed section, it is not possbile to go to Okama or Yamagata prefecture side.

② For several days before the closer (from late October) and after the opening (till early May), the roads will be closed between 5 pm and 8 am. Please note that the gates of the road are closed.

③ With excessive amount of rainfalls, or snowfall or ice on the road (when it is judged that it is dangerous for normal tires), please note that it may be closed urgently.

④ The Bicycle Road Race" Zao Hillclimb Eco" is held in mid May every year. Please note that it will be closed temporarily.
Access Method: By car: From Shiroishi IC on Tohoku Express Highway, head to the direction to Tohgatta Onsen via R457 (Duration 30 minutes)
Budget reference: Free access, It may be closed at night due to the icy roads. From early November to late April, free access during the period, It may be closed in snowy weathers