Snow and steam
Zao Onsen is named for Mt. Zao,
a cluster of volcanoes straddling
Yamagata and Miyagi prefectures.
The volcanic activity feeds the
hot springs of the resort, and has
created a natural playground for
hikers, skiers, snowboarders, and
photographers. The smell of sulphur
fills the air in Zao, steam billows from
channels and pipes that carry hot
spring water throughout the town,
and on cold days the entire village
seems shrouded in mist. Most hotels
and inns in the town have onsen on
site, and there are also public baths
scattered throughout the town. Some
of these are simple affairs, two rooms
segregated by sex, where you bring
your own towel and drop Y100 (73p)
in the box at the door. Genshichiro
is a mountainside onsen with indoor
and outdoor baths. Luxuriating in
steaming hot spring water amid
the cold mountain air is an indelibly
joyous experience.
PARTNER CONTENT FOR EAST JAPAN RAILWAY COMPANY