[Limited Time Offer] Tohoku Japan 3-Day Tour: Ginzan Hot Spring, Zao Snow Monsters & Miyagi Fox Village with Stay at Two Hot Spring Hotels | Japan
Take a private car from Tokyo to explore Northeastern winter's most romantic spots. Visit Fukushima's Tadami Line, Ouchi-juku, Ginzan Hot Spring, Zao Juhyo, and Miyagi Fox Village.
- Enjoy inclusive accommodation, transportation, and admission fees
- Discover the hot spring street at Ginzan Hot Spring, marvel at Japan's iconic Zao Snow Monsters, and get up close with adorable foxes at Miyagi Fox Village
- Ride the scenic Tadami Line, Japan’s most beautiful railway, and explore Ouchi-juku, one of Japan's three major gassho villages
- Relax at the Northeast Double Hot Spring Hotel for an unforgettable hot spring experience
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Minimum participant requirement | 20 travelers |
| Tour types | None |
| Meal arrangement | Breakfast included, With dinner |
| Accommodation type | Hotel |
| Seasonal | Winter Snow Exclusive |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Bus tour |
| Transport | Bus tour |
Product Info
- Trip Overview -
- Zao Snow Monsters
The Zao Snow Monsters are a famous natural phenomenon in the Zao mountain range of Yamagata Prefecture. During winter, strong cold winds cover the trees in thick layers of snow and ice, creating the spectacular 'Snow Monsters' that the area is known for. The best time to view them is from January to March each year. Visitors can take a ropeway to the summit to see these massive ice-covered trees up close and enjoy skiing at the Zao Ski Resort. The evening light-up event adds a magical atmosphere, attracting many photography enthusiasts and tourists.
* Please note that depending on the departure date and package, the itinerary may include either the Zao Ropeway on the Yamagata side or the Zao Snow Monster tour on the Miyagi side. Please check carefully when booking.
- Notes on viewing the Snow Monsters:
- The shape and appearance of the Snow Monsters vary depending on the weather; they can be viewed from mid-December to March.
- For your safety and to protect the Snow Monsters, please view them only from designated areas. (Do not cross safety ropes.)
- It is extremely cold on the mountains in winter, so please be sure to take anti-cold measures and wear shoes suitable for walking on snow to prevent injury.
- In case of rain, dense fog, lightning, strong winds, or other adverse weather, the ropeway may be suspended. Please also understand that the summit observation deck may be closed.
- If the ropeway is suspended, a refund process will be initiated.
- Attraction Introduction -
- Ouchi-juku
Located in Minamiaizu, Fukushima Prefecture, 'Ouchi-juku' was a prosperous post town during the Edo period on the important road connecting Aizu-Wakamatsu and Nikko Imaichi. Today, it still retains its Edo-period appearance, with thatched-roof houses lining the street. Residents live here, using their homes as both shops and residences to preserve this scenery. In 1981, it was designated as a Nationally Selected Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. Through the collective efforts of the residents to maintain the architectural landscape, the traditional technique of re-thatching roofs is passed down. After about 400 years, these traditional thatched roofs still exist, thanks to the preservation activities carried out by the villagers themselves. Led by professional craftsmen, villagers work together to participate in the re-thatching work. This allows every visitor to Ouchi-juku to admire the original Japanese landscape with over 400 years of history!
- Tadami Line
The JR Tadami Line is a railway line connecting Koide Station in Uonuma City, Niigata Prefecture, to Aizu-Wakamatsu Station in Aizu-Wakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture, spanning approximately 135 kilometers. This route is located in a hidden scenic spot, passing through the Furusato of the specialty 'Koshihikari' rice of Uonuma, offering magnificent views. In particular, the blend of colorful autumn leaves and deep valleys, as well as the ink-wash painting-like snow scenery, are must-see highlights. As a result, photographers from all over the world come here to capture the stunning valleys and railway scenery. In winter, you can see the Tadami Line running through the breathtaking snow-covered landscape, which is truly worth seeing.
- Ginzan Onsen
Located in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan, Ginzan Onsen is a hot spring town filled with historical atmosphere, famous for its well-preserved Taisho-era architecture and tranquil environment. This hot spring area was originally a silver mining village, which gradually transformed into a hot spring resort as the mining industry declined. The charm of Ginzan Onsen lies in its traditional Japanese inns lined along the river, especially under the winter snow, creating a fairy-tale scene that attracts many visitors from all over Japan to relax and enjoy.
- Miyagi Zao Fox Village
Miyagi Fox Village (Miyagi Zao Fox Village) is located in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, and is a wildlife park dedicated to the protection of foxes. There are about 100 foxes of six different species living in the village. Visitors can observe these cute animals up close and even have the opportunity to interact with and feed them. The village has complete facilities and provides safety instructions to ensure harmonious interaction between visitors and the foxes. In winter, the snow-covered village adds a dreamy touch, making it an ideal destination for nature and animal lovers.
- Accommodation Introduction -
[First Night Accommodation] Urabandai Lake Resort or equivalent hot spring hotel
Urabandai Lake Resort, located in Fukushima Prefecture, is a year-round resort surrounded by the beautiful Mt. Bandai and the Goshikinuma ponds. The Nekoma Onsen is known as the 'Hot Spring for Beautiful Skin'; the water is colorless and transparent, providing moisturizing effects for the skin and helping to soothe the body and mind. The open-air bath, 'Mori no Rotenburo,' allows guests to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty while soaking in the hot spring, whether it is the mountain forest scenery or the starry night sky. This place is suitable for outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and boating, and offers high-quality dining services, including dishes carefully prepared with local ingredients.
[Second Night Accommodation] Tendo Hotel or equivalent hot spring hotel
Tendo Hotel, located in Tendo City, Yamagata Prefecture, is a long-established luxury hot spring resort hotel. The hotel features comfortable room options, rich hot spring facilities, and exquisite local cuisine, allowing guests to enjoy traditional Japanese hospitality. The hot spring uses natural spring water, which helps to soothe the body and mind. It offers both open-air baths and large indoor communal baths, allowing guests to relax while enjoying the scenery. The hot spring water is colorless, transparent, mild, and rich in minerals, providing moisturizing effects for the skin, and is known as the 'Hot Spring for Beautiful Skin'.
Departure limited to January 14th: Special snowmobile ride to the "Miyagi Prefecture Zao Frost Trees" allows you to admire the spectacular frost trees up close!
Zao's Winter Treasure: "Zao Hydrangea"
Shin's Furusato, Ginzan Onsen
Purchase Notice
— Travel Conditions —
- Travel Origin and Destination: Tokyo, Fukushima/Yamagata/Miyagi
- Travel Days: 3 days and 2 nights
- Transportation: Chartered bus
- Bus Company Name: オーワ観光バス Co., Ltd. / TCB 観光バス / Izumi Transportation Co., Ltd. / アイビーエス Co., Ltd. / Co., Ltd. エスケー Transportation / Iruma Chuo Transportation Co., Ltd. / Galaxy Railway Co., Ltd. / Miyaura Co., Ltd. club Narita Automobile Co., Ltd./Tokyo Automobile Co., Ltd./Tokyo Automobile Co., Ltd./Japanese Automobile Co., Ltd./Aogagaki Co., Ltd./Tokyo Yumo Co., Ltd. Kanko Co., Ltd./Tokyo Shiga Transportation Co., Ltd./Korea Co., Ltd./そのTA上记に正ずるバス社
- Meals: 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners
- Minimum Group Size: 20
- Team Leader: 1
- Tour Guide: 0
— Travel Planning/Implementation —
- Operating Company Name: Torotech Co., Ltd.
- Address: 2-2-24 Higashi-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Tennosu Terrarium Level 4
- License Number: Tokyo Governor Registration Travel Industry No. 2-5234
- Travel Industry Association Name: Full Member of National Travel Industry Association
Reminders
A minimum of 20 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 14 day(s) before the departure date
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 17:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Please arrive at the designated location 15 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
If you are unable to take the Zao Cable Car due to long queues or difficulty making reservations, you will be offered the Zao Chuo Cable Car instead and the fare difference will be refunded. Thank you for your understanding.
The Zao Cable Car ride time is subject to change for each trip. Please refer to the tour leader's arrangements for the specific time and date.
If there are delays due to traffic congestion, facility maintenance, or other factors, the itinerary or duration of time at each attraction may be adjusted
Please allow ample time to reach the meeting point. The bus will depart promptly. If you are late or leave the group midway, it will be considered as voluntarily giving up the unfinished trip, and no refunds will be issued
If you have any questions about the meeting point, please contact the supplier in advance. Please understand that the staff will not contact guests who arrive late on time.
The tour includes extensive walking, so please wear clothing and shoes suitable for snow activities. The company is not responsible for any injuries caused by clothing.
The tour leader can communicate in Chinese and simple English. No off-bus guided tours are provided. However, relevant precautions and introductions will be given on the bus. Please be advised.
If you have special requests such as smoking/non-smoking rooms or allergy requests, please indicate them in advance and we will assist you in inquiring whether they can be provided, but please note that this cannot be guaranteed.
Please comply with local Japanese regulations when using hot springs and avoid any behavior that violates public etiquette. Otherwise, you may be banned from using the hot springs or be required to pay compensation.
Guests with tattoos are requested to use a cover-up patch first, otherwise they will not be allowed to enter according to Japanese hot spring regulations.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 21 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- For cancellations made 8 to 20 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 20% will apply
- For cancellations made 2 to 7 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 30% will apply
- For cancellations made 1 to 1 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 40% will apply
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–0 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once your refund request is confirmed, KKday will initiate the refund to your original payment method within 15 days. The actual refund timing depends on your card-issuing bank’s policy.
FAQ
1. Is Ginzan Onsen worth visiting during winter in Japan?
Yes, Ginzan Onsen is absolutely worth visiting, especially in winter. The historic hot spring town transforms into a picturesque scene reminiscent of a Studio Ghibli film, with traditional ryokan illuminated by gas lamps against a backdrop of falling snow. Visitors can enjoy outdoor foot baths, explore the charming streets, and soak in the soothing hot springs, offering a truly unique and memorable Japanese winter experience. Its unique atmosphere provides excellent photographic opportunities.
2. What unique experiences can visitors expect at Ginzan Onsen?
Ginzan Onsen offers several unique experiences. Visitors can stroll along the Ginzan River, admiring the beautifully preserved wooden ryokan from the Taisho and early Showa eras. You can enjoy free public foot baths along the river, taste local snacks, and visit the Shirogane Falls nearby. In the evenings, the town's gas lamps create a magical, nostalgic ambiance, perfect for a romantic walk and capturing stunning photos. The traditional architecture and the sound of the river enhance the serene atmosphere.
3. Why is Ginzan Onsen considered a historically significant and visually appealing destination?
Ginzan Onsen's historical significance comes from its past as a silver mine (Ginzan means 'silver mountain'). Its visual appeal stems from the well-preserved traditional wooden ryokan that line the Ginzan River, showcasing Taisho-era architecture. These multi-story structures, often covered in snow during winter and lit by nostalgic gas lamps, create a dreamlike, timeless landscape. This blend of history and picturesque scenery makes it incredibly unique and popular.
4. How does transportation work for reaching remote locations like Ginzan Onsen and Zao Snow Monsters on this tour?
Reaching remote yet beautiful locations like Ginzan Onsen and the Zao Snow Monsters can be challenging via public transport, especially in winter. This tour simplifies access by providing a comfortable private car directly from Tokyo, including all transportation between attractions. This allows travelers to relax and enjoy the scenic Tohoku region without worrying about complex transfers, train schedules, or driving on snowy roads, ensuring a smooth and convenient journey to each site.
5. What are the highlights and recommended activities at Miyagi Fox Village?
At Miyagi Fox Village, the main highlight is interacting with over a hundred free-roaming foxes of six different species. Visitors can observe these adorable animals up close in their natural habitat and even participate in supervised feeding sessions. Beyond the main enclosure, there's a smaller area with caged foxes, goats, and rabbits. It's a unique opportunity for animal lovers to learn about and appreciate these fascinating creatures in a picturesque setting.
6. What makes the Tadami Line a scenic railway journey on this Tohoku tour?
The Tadami Line is renowned as one of Japan's most beautiful railway lines, famous for its picturesque route through the mountainous Fukushima prefecture. It offers breathtaking views, especially during winter when the snow-covered landscape and valleys are mirrored in the river, framed by charming bridges. The train traverses along rivers and through tunnels, providing stunning, ever-changing vistas of untouched nature, making it a photographer's paradise and a truly memorable part of the tour.
7. When is the best time to see the Zao Snow Monsters (Juhyo) and what is the experience like?
The best time to see the Zao Snow Monsters, or Juhyo, is typically from late January to late February, when they reach their most impressive size and unique shapes due to heavy snowfall and strong winds. The experience involves taking a ropeway up Mount Zao to a high-altitude plateau, where you can walk among these natural ice sculptures. It's an otherworldly landscape, especially striking under clear skies or during evening illuminations, offering a truly unique winter spectacle.
8. What can be explored at Ouchi-juku, one of Japan's historic gassho villages?
Ouchi-juku is a former post town from the Edo period, famous for its preserved thatched-roof houses (gassho-zukuri) that line its main street. Visitors can explore these traditional buildings, many of which now serve as souvenir shops, local craft stores, and restaurants offering traditional dishes like negi soba (buckwheat noodles eaten with a leek instead of chopsticks). Climbing to the viewpoint at the end of the village provides a panoramic view of the entire historic street, transporting visitors back in time.
