Tohoku Yamagata Ginzan Onsen, Zao Ropeway, Okama Crater, Fruit Picking & Special Lunch Day Tour | Departing from Sendai
- Accompanied by a Chinese-speaking guide throughout the trip. Small group tour for an in-depth exploration of Tohoku's hidden gems.
- Stroll through the Taisho-era nostalgic streets of Ginzan Onsen, walk past wooden inns, and soak in the atmosphere of a century-old hot spring town.
- Visit the emerald volcanic crater lake of Zao Okama (open seasonally from April to November) and take the ropeway directly to the top for a panoramic view.
- Seasonal fruit picking experience from June to November; hand-pick Yamagata specialties including cherries, peaches, grapes, and apples.
- Includes a specially selected Yamagata-style lunch featuring local, seasonal ingredients.
- Winter-exclusive Zao Snow Monster spectacle; witness the rare 'snow monsters' from January to February.
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Minimum participant requirement | 10 travelers |
| Meal arrangement | Lunch included |
| Family-friendly | Free for children under 2 (no seat) |
| Seasonal | Winter Snow Exclusive |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights |
| Transport | Bus tour |
Product Info
－ Attraction Introduction －
- Ginzan Onsen
Ginzan Onsen is a hot spring town that preserves the nostalgic charm of the Taisho era. Wooden inns line the Ginzan River, and in winter, the snow-covered landscape illuminated by warm, golden lights creates a romantic, dreamlike atmosphere. With a long history dating back to the Edo period, the famous Shirogane-yu public bath is a must-visit. Ginzan Onsen offers a tranquil environment for travelers looking to escape the city bustle, stroll through the retro hot spring streets, and experience the romantic nostalgia of Taisho-era Japan.
- Zao Snow Monsters (Plan A: Winter Exclusive)
A winter natural wonder located on Mt. Zao in Yamagata Prefecture, often called 'snow monsters.' These are formed by the interaction of strong cold winds and snow on the branches of conifer trees, creating unique ice-covered shapes. January to February is the best time to view them. - Zao Onsen
Located on the hillside of the Zao Mountain Range at an altitude of about 900 meters, this hot spring has a history spanning over a thousand years. The hot spring town centers around 'Takayu-dori,' where traditional inns, public baths, foot baths, and long-established eateries line the stone-paved streets. The air is filled with the scent of sulfur and rising steam, showcasing a nostalgic Showa-era hot spring town atmosphere, perfect for strolling while searching for local delicacies and souvenirs. - Zao Okama (Limited time from 4/24 to early November)
The iconic circular crater lake of the Zao Mountain Range, named for its resemblance to a cooking pot (okama). The lake water changes color—ranging from green and blue to emerald—depending on the season and weather, earning it the name 'Goshiki-numa' (Five-Color Pond). From April to November, you can climb to the summit of Mt. Katta or the Katta-mine Shrine Okumiya to overlook the entire crater lake and the majestic mountain ridges. - Fruit Picking Experience (Seasonal, June - November)
Take you to a local orchard to hand-pick Yamagata's most representative seasonal fruits. In early summer, from June to early July, experience picking sweet and juicy cherries; from August to October, enjoy fragrant, plump, and juicy peaches or grapes; from October to November, hand-pick crisp and sweet apples and enjoy the joy of harvesting them yourself.
The lake water changes color—ranging from green and blue to emerald—depending on the season and weather, earning it the name 'Goshiki-numa' (Five-Color Pond).
The most iconic crater lake of the Zao Mountain Range, known as the 'Eye of Zao'.
Take the ropeway straight up the mountain for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Zao Mountain Range.
After reaching the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the mountains and plateaus, a popular mountain experience.
Stroll through the streets of Ginzan Onsen and feel the classic Taisho-era romantic atmosphere.
Limited to spring and summer, walk into the orchard and pick fresh, plump, and red cherries yourself. Take a bite and enjoy the sweet and sour juiciness, experiencing the limited sweet taste of early summer in the sun and fruit fragrance.
Cherry picking is scheduled from June to mid-July.
Peach or grape picking is scheduled for August - October.
Apple picking is scheduled for October - November.
Purchase Notice
【Travel Conditions】
Departure/Destination: Miyagi/Yamagata
Duration: Same-day round trip
Transportation: Chartered Bus
Bus Company: Asahi Bus / Dream Kanko
Meals: Breakfast 0, Lunch 1, Dinner 0
Minimum Group Size: 10
Tour Guide: 1
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating Company: LION TRAVEL JAPAN Co., Ltd.
Address: 7F Toranomon Central Building, 1-7-1 Nishi-Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
License Number: Japan Tourism Agency Registered Travel Agency No. 1892
Travel Industry Association: Full Member of Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)
Reminders
A minimum of 10 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 4 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 18:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Vehicles are assigned based on the number of participants. For small groups, a driver-guide will provide full travel service, and no separate tour leader will be assigned. Please be aware that you will explore the attractions on your own upon arrival.
The ropeway used may vary between the Zao Ropeway and Zao Chuo Ropeway based on reservations and on-site conditions. The Zao Snow Monsters are subject to weather conditions and may not be visible. Once the tour is confirmed, it will proceed regardless of the snow monster conditions; please be aware of this.
On the day of the tour, the stay time at attractions may be adjusted or some attractions may be cancelled due to road conditions, etc. The return time may also be significantly delayed. Please note that the above times are only estimates. Please avoid arranging other activities after the tour on the same day. Our company will not be responsible for any losses caused by delays. Thank you for your understanding.
At each tourist spot in winter, it may not be possible to enjoy the snowy scenery depending on weather conditions.
Bus seating is assigned on-site; requests for specific seats cannot be accommodated. Thank you for your understanding.
Bus and restaurant seating during the tour may be shared with other travelers, depending on the arrangements made by the tour leader and facilities on the day.
Meal contents may be adjusted based on daily ingredient availability; actual conditions on the day will prevail.
If the ropeway is suspended due to force majeure such as traffic or weather, the itinerary will be changed to a foot bath experience at Zao Onsen Street, and the ropeway fee of 3000 JPY will be refunded later. Please be aware of this.
Please arrange your own shuttle bus for Ginzan Onsen. The cost is 500 - 1000 JPY; please refer to the on-site price. In the event of a significant price increase, there may be an additional charge on-site.
Orchards are for reference only; actual arrangements will be made based on local conditions. Fruit ripening times vary due to weather, and the types of fruit available for picking will depend on local arrangements. You may be served pre-picked fruit.
FAQ
1. What makes Ginzan Onsen a unique destination to visit?
Ginzan Onsen offers a nostalgic journey back to Japan's Taisho era with its beautifully preserved wooden ryokan lining a charming river. During winter, the snow-covered streets and gas lamps create a magical, almost cinematic atmosphere, reminiscent of a scene from Spirited Away. Visitors can enjoy strolling along the quaint streets, relaxing in foot baths, and experiencing a truly retro Japanese charm amidst stunning natural scenery.
2. What are the unique features of the Zao Juhyo (Snow Monsters) experience?
The Zao Juhyo, or Snow Monsters, are a rare natural phenomenon where sub-zero temperatures, strong winds, and heavy snowfall transform Aomori fir trees into unique, monstrous shapes. Experiencing them involves taking a cable car up Mount Zao, offering panoramic views of these spectacular formations. It's a breathtaking winter art display, providing a unique opportunity to witness nature's sculptural prowess in a frosty landscape.
3. How much time is recommended to explore Ginzan Onsen and its activities?
To fully appreciate Ginzan Onsen's romantic snowscape and retro charm, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours is recommended. This allows for a leisurely stroll along the main street, time to soak your feet in the public foot bath, capture memorable photos, and browse the local shops. Some visitors also enjoy a quick visit to the waterfall nearby, adding to the picturesque experience.
4. When is the optimal season to experience the romantic snowscape of Ginzan Onsen?
The optimal season to experience Ginzan Onsen's romantic snowscape is typically from late December to early March. During these months, heavy snowfall transforms the village into a picturesque winter wonderland, especially enchanting in the evenings when the gas lamps illuminate the snow-covered wooden ryokans. This period offers the most iconic and magical views of the historic town.
5. What unique activities or sights can visitors enjoy at Ginzan Onsen?
At Ginzan Onsen, visitors can enjoy several unique activities. Strolling the historic wooden ryokan streets is a must, especially at dusk when gas lamps create a soft, nostalgic glow. You can relax your feet in the public foot bath, enjoy local sweets and souvenirs, or take a short walk to the Shirogane Waterfall located at the end of the street. It's an ideal spot for photography and soaking in the Taisho-era ambiance.
6. How can visitors best experience the Zao Juhyo (Snow Monsters)?
The best way to experience the Zao Juhyo is by taking the Zao Ropeway up to the Juhyo Kogen Station or the summit. The cable car ride itself offers stunning views as you ascend, and once at the top, visitors can walk around designated viewing platforms to observe the enormous frost-covered trees up close. Dress warmly, as temperatures are extremely cold at the summit, to fully enjoy this unique natural spectacle.
7. How long does it typically take to experience the Zao Juhyo (Snow Monsters) by cable car?
The round trip cable car journey to experience the Zao Juhyo typically takes about 15-20 minutes each way, not including waiting times. Once at the summit or Juhyo Kogen Station, visitors usually spend 45-60 minutes exploring the viewing areas and taking photographs. Allow a total of 1.5 to 2 hours for the entire Zao Juhyo experience, including travel and viewing time.
8. What local cuisine specialties are typically served during a Tohoku day tour to Ginzan Onsen and Zao Juhyo?
During a Tohoku day tour encompassing Ginzan Onsen and Zao Juhyo, visitors can savor carefully selected Yamagata cuisine. Specialties often include local soba noodles, imoni (taro potato stew), or various dishes featuring seasonal ingredients from the region. The focus is on authentic, hearty local flavors that provide a taste of Yamagata's culinary heritage, often served as part of a traditional set lunch.
