
ABOUT Zao Onsen
Zao Onsen is a gorgeous traditional Japanese village located in the north of Honshu, the main island of Japan. Zao is an onsen resort, meaning there are natural hot springs running through the village, including public bathhouses and in-house onsens. The ski resort is large, with a selection of runs for all abilities however the on-piste terrain is predominately for beginners to intermediate skiers and snowboarders. One of the unique attractions of Zao is the famous “Snow Monsters” that form on the trees during the winter, they’re a must see! Zao can be easily accessed on the Shinkansen from Tokyo and then a bus to the resort. The town also features a variety of restaurants to settle your appetite after a day on the slopes, however nightlife is limited like a lot of traditional resorts. For more information on Zao Onsen click here.
-
Zao Onsen Accommodation
Zao Onsen offers beautiful and traditional Japanese accommodation options. Check out our top recommendations here. -
Zao Onsen
things to doIf you want to take a rest day while in Zao Onsen here are some ideas to keep you busy. -
How to get to
Zao OnsenYou have a few different options for getting to Zao Onsen from Tokyo and other cities. Check out which option is best for you. -
Zao Onsen Trail Maps
Find out what the resort of Zao Onsen has to offer with our resort guide and trail map.
Featured Zao Onsen Articles
Tohoku – Honshu’s Northern Region, Deep Snow and Small Crowds
The Tohoku is one of the snowiest regions in Japan. Drew Jolowicz slicing through the trees at Ani resort. Photo: Dylan Robinson Mountainwatch | Reggae Elliss Japan has been the number one destination for Australian skiers and s [...]
Winter in Tohoku: Uncovering the Secrets of Japan’s Snowiest Region
Floating through Geibeiki Gorge on the Satetsu River is a timeless experience Mountainwatch | Nadine Robb The Tohoku region is home to the snowiest city in the world, making it a perfect holiday destination for those looking for [...]
Tohoku in Spring: The Quintessential Experience of Classic Japan
Nadine hooking into some perfect spring corn in Hakkoda Mountainwatch |Nadine Robb As a first-time visitor to Japan’s Tohoku region, I was keen to unearth the points of difference that would set it apart from other, perhaps b [...]
Why Book With Us
Experience & Knowledge Our team consists of a diverse group of professionals with years of experience in the travel industry. Coming from different areas, we have built a team who pride ourselves on offering the highest level [...]
Why You Need To Travel To Japan
Japan offers some of the best snow in the world, but it offers a whole lot more as well… When you think of skiing in Japan you think Niseko or Hakuba, however there are hundreds of ski resorts located across the country. The [...]
Mountainwatch joins forces with Liquid Snow Tours
The Mountainwatch team are as passionate about the mountains as you are. Our site has always been about delivering the best mountain weather forecasting, snow news and mountain travel out there! Which is why we’re excited to ann [...]