[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
The content of this product is provided by machine translation and may not reflect the actual information, please take this into consideration before booking.
- Itinerary Introduction -
- Zao Juhyo
Zao's frost-covered trees are a renowned natural wonder in the Zao Mountains of Yamagata Prefecture. During winter, strong cold winds blanket the trees in thick layers of snow and ice, creating a spectacular display known as "juhyo." January to March is the best time to see the juhyo. Visitors can take a cable car to the summit to admire these massive icy trees up close and enjoy skiing at the Zao Ski Resort. The nighttime illumination of the juhyo adds to the magical atmosphere, attracting numerous photographers and tourists.
*Depending on the departure date and plan, there are two types of tours: the Zao Juhyo Ropeway on the Yamagata side and the Zao Juhyo Ropeway on the Miyagi side. Please note this when making reservations.
- Things to note when viewing frost-covered trees:
- The shape and appearance of the juhyo vary depending on the weather, and can be seen from mid-December to March each year.
- For the safety of our customers and to protect the frost trees, please view them in designated areas. (Do not cross the safety ropes.)
- The mountains are extremely cold in winter, so be sure to take precautions against the cold and wear snow-resistant shoes to prevent injuries.
- The cable car may be suspended in the event of rain, dense fog, thunderstorms, or strong winds. Please note that the mountaintop observatory may also be closed.
- If the cable car stops running, ticket refunds will be made.
- Attractions Introduction -
- Ouchijuku
Ouchi-juku, located in Minamiaizu, Fukushima Prefecture, flourished during the Edo Period as a post town on a key route connecting Aizu-Wakamatsu City and Nikko-Nama City. Today, the town retains its Edo-era charm, with thatched-roof houses lining the road. Residents continue to use the area as both shops and residences to preserve this scenic beauty. Designated as an Important National Preservation Area for Groups of Traditional Buildings in 1977, the town's residents work together to maintain the architectural landscape and the traditional thatching techniques. The preservation of the traditional thatched roofs over approximately 400 years is a result of the villagers' voluntary efforts. Led by skilled craftsmen, villagers collaborate to re-roof the roofs. Visitors to Ouchi-juku can enjoy a glimpse into the pristine Japanese landscape, spanning over 400 years.
- Tadami Line
The JR Tadami Line connects Koide Station in Uonuma City, Niigata Prefecture, with Aizuwakamatsu Station in Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture, covering a total length of approximately 135 kilometers. This route, nestled amidst breathtaking scenery, passes through the Furusato of Uonuma's specialty, Koshihikari rice, creating a breathtaking landscape. The vibrant autumn foliage blends with the gorge, while the snowscape, reminiscent of an ink painting, is a must-see. Photographers from around the world flock to capture the breathtaking scenery of the gorge and the railway. In winter, the Tadami Line, traversing the breathtaking snowscape, is a truly breathtaking sight.
- Ginzan Onsen
Ginzan Onsen, located in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan, is a historic hot spring town renowned for its well-preserved Taisho-era architecture and tranquil surroundings. Originally a silver mining village, the area gradually transformed into a hot spring resort following the decline of the mining industry. Ginzan Onsen is known for its traditional Japanese-style inns lining the riverbank, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere, especially in winter when blanketed in snow. This scene attracts visitors from all over Japan to relax and unwind.
- Miyagi Fox Village
Miyagi Fox Village (Miyagi Zao Fox Village), located in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, is a wildlife park dedicated to the conservation of foxes. Home to approximately 100 foxes of six species, visitors can observe these adorable animals up close and even interact with and feed them. Comprehensive facilities and safety instructions are provided to ensure a harmonious interaction between visitors and the foxes. In winter, the snow-covered village creates a magical atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and animal enthusiasts.
Accommodation Information
First night accommodation: Urabandai Lake Resort or a similar hot spring hotel
Located in Fukushima Prefecture, Urabandai Lake Resort is a year-round resort nestled amidst the beautiful Mount Bandai and the Goshikinuma Lakes. The Nekomo Onsen (Nekomo Onsen) boasts a transparent, colorless water that moisturizes the skin and soothes the body and mind. The outdoor hot spring features a "Mori no Rotenburo" (forest open-air bath), allowing guests to soak in the surrounding natural beauty, from the mountainous landscape to the starry night sky. The resort is ideal for outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and boating, and offers high-quality dining, featuring dishes carefully prepared with local ingredients.
[Second night accommodation] Tiantong Hotel or similar hot spring hotel
Located in Tendo City, Yamagata Prefecture, the Tendo Hotel is a luxurious hot spring resort with a long history. Featuring comfortable room, a wide range of hot spring facilities, and exquisite local cuisine, the hotel offers guests a glimpse into traditional Japanese hospitality. The hotel's natural spring waters are known for their soothing properties, and both open-air baths and indoor large baths offer a relaxing retreat while appreciating the stunning scenery. The water is colorless, transparent, gentle, and rich in minerals, earning it the reputation of "beautifying hot springs" for their moisturizing properties.
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 the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.
FAQ
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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