Tohoku Day Tour: Ginzan Onsen, Zao Snow Monsters & Fox Village | Departing from Sendai (Winter Only)
- Stroll through the nostalgic streets of Ginzan Onsen and admire the romantic view of wooden inns reflected in the stream, as if stepping into an anime scene.
- Take the Zao Ropeway to the summit to overlook the dreamlike 'snow monsters' and experience a breathtaking landscape only visible in winter.
- Visit Zao Fox Village to meet over 100 adorable foxes for a healing winter experience.
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Minimum participant requirement | 15 travelers |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Seasonal | Winter Snow Exclusive |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights |
| Transport | Bus tour |
Product Info
- Attraction Introduction -
Ginzan Onsen
Located in Yamagata Prefecture, 'Ginzan Onsen' was named after the silver mine discovered here over 500 years ago. The area preserves a strong nostalgic atmosphere, with wooden hot spring inns lining the stream. At night, gas lamps illuminate the streets, creating a quaint and romantic ambiance. Ginzan Onsen is not only the filming location for the classic Japanese drama 'Oshin' but is also rumored to be the inspiration for the bathhouse in the anime 'Spirited Away'. Every winter, the snow-covered scenery and retro architecture complement each other, making you feel as if you have stepped into a dream world, attracting countless travelers.
Yamagata Zao Snow Monsters
The Zao Snow Monsters are one of the most spectacular natural wonders in Tohoku during winter. Because Mount Zao is close to the Sea of Japan, the northwest monsoon causes cold water droplets in the air to freeze onto the coniferous trees, which are then covered by thick snow, forming unique 'snow monster' shapes. As the ropeway climbs higher, you are surrounded by a silver-white world, and the magnificent sight of the snow monsters comes into view, leaving you in awe of nature's craftsmanship. Experience this breathtaking scenery that can only be seen in winter!
Zao Fox Village
Located in Miyagi Prefecture, Zao Fox Village is the only park in Japan themed around foxes. The park houses over 100 foxes, each with its own lively and adorable personality; some lounge in the sun, while others run around nimbly, providing a truly healing experience. Visitors can observe, feed, or take photos with them at close range in designated areas. In winter, the snow-covered landscape adds a fairy-tale atmosphere, making it one of the most popular attractions in Tohoku.
- Special Notes -
The Zao Ropeway ticket has been pre-arranged by the travel agency for group booking, so travelers do not need to purchase tickets separately. The ropeway fee of JPY 4,600 per person will be collected by the tour guide on the day of the event.
Please inform us at the time of booking if you are traveling with an infant under 3 years old.
This tour is not recommended for individuals over 80 years old with limited mobility or those with serious medical conditions.
Sendai East Exit Sightseeing Bus Boarding Point (Please follow the map to the meeting point and look for the guide holding the EASYGO flag)
Purchase Notice
[Tourism Conditions]
Departure and destination for the trip: Miyagi and Yamagata
Trip duration: Day trip
Transportation: Chartered bus
Bus company name: スカイ観光バス Co., Ltd./Gunma セイワ観光 Co., Ltd./スターバス Co., Ltd./KEY Co., Ltd. JAPAN/ニューhengjong/Oshima Kanko Co., Ltd./Nisshin Kanko Co., Ltd./Yahagi Kanko Co., Ltd.
Meals provided: Breakfast 0 times, Lunch 0 times, Dinner 0 times
Accommodation facilities: None
Minimum group size: 15
Team Leader: 0
Tour guide: 1
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Name of the operating company: J&R Tokyo Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
Address: 〒163-1309 6-5-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
License Number: Osaka Prefecture Governor's Registered Travel Agent No. 2-2181
Name of travel association: National Travel Industry Association (Osaka Prefecture Branch), a general incorporated association, full member
General incorporated association Zenryu (Osaka Prefecture Travel Industry Association) full-time member
JATA is a cooperative member.
Reminders
A minimum of 15 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 12:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: High blood pressure, Heart disease, Acrophobia, Asthma, Epilepsy, Pregnant women
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Vehicles will be arranged according to the number of participants and the amount of luggage. Please note that specific arrangements cannot be made.
If you are seriously late or fail to arrive at the meeting point on time due to personal reasons, it will be considered as a voluntary abandonment of the trip, and no refund will be given.
The bus may arrive late due to traffic or weather conditions. Please allow ample time for transfers if you need to take other forms of transportation on your return trip.
The itinerary is subject to change based on traffic and weather conditions. Transportation arrangements, tours, and duration of stays are subject to actual conditions on the day.
If the Zao Cable Car is suspended due to weather conditions, Option B will be replaced by the Central Cable Car. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Please keep your mobile phone accessible during your trip so that our staff can contact you. Thank you for your cooperation.
During a group trip, you are not allowed to leave the group early or midway. If you choose to leave the group midway, the unfinished part will be deemed to be abandoned by you and no refund will be given. Tourists are responsible for any accidents that may occur after leaving the group or leaving the group. Please understand.
The cost of the shuttle bus service in Ginzan Onsen Street may vary, and the actual cost will be announced on the day of travel.
The Zao cable car tickets have been pre-booked by the travel agency for the group; no separate tickets are required for individual travelers. The cable car fare is JPY 4,600 per person, which will be collected by the tour guide on the day of the activity.
FAQ
1. What are the common transportation options to reach Zao Fox Village?
Zao Fox Village is typically accessed by taxi or a local bus from Shiroishi-Zao Station (Tohoku Shinkansen line). A taxi ride takes approximately 20-30 minutes. During certain periods, a limited "Kyokun Liner" bus operates from Shiroishi Station directly to the village, but its schedule can be infrequent. For direct and hassle-free travel, especially for first-time visitors, private transportation or joining a guided tour is often a convenient option.
2. What is the recommended duration for visiting Zao Fox Village?
Most visitors spend about 1 to 2 hours at Zao Fox Village. This allows ample time to observe the foxes in their open-air environment, learn about their behavior, take photos, and experience any designated interaction areas. The duration can vary based on your interest in watching the foxes and participating in available feeding sessions.
3. What is the typical admission cost for Zao Fox Village and what does it include?
Admission to Zao Fox Village grants you access to the main sanctuary area where over a hundred foxes roam freely. It includes the opportunity to observe various fox species up close and access designated viewing zones. Please note that separate fees may apply for specific activities such as feeding sessions or holding a fox, which are offered during certain times and under staff supervision.
4. What safety guidelines should visitors follow when interacting with foxes at Zao Fox Village?
For both visitor and fox safety, it is crucial to follow all posted rules at Zao Fox Village. Do not touch or pet the foxes outside designated interaction areas, as they are wild animals. Maintain a safe distance, especially from mothers with kits. Only feed foxes with food purchased on-site and strictly follow staff instructions during feeding times. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that might startle them.
5. What is the best time of day to visit Ginzan Onsen to experience its nostalgic atmosphere?
The most magical time to visit Ginzan Onsen is typically in the late afternoon or early evening, especially during winter. As dusk settles, the gas lamps illuminating the traditional wooden ryokan (inns) create a truly nostalgic and enchanting atmosphere, reminiscent of a bygone era. This period offers the best opportunity for stunning photographs and a memorable stroll along the Ginzan River.
6. What can visitors expect to see when taking the Zao Ropeway to view the 'Hydrome of Trees'?
When taking the Zao Ropeway in winter, visitors can expect to witness the unique natural phenomenon known as the 'Hydrome of Trees' or 'Snow Monsters.' These are fir trees completely covered in snow and ice, sculpted by strong winds into bizarre and majestic shapes. From the ropeway and observation decks, you will gain panoramic views of this breathtaking icy landscape, offering a truly unique winter spectacle.
7. Are there specific rules or guidelines for feeding and interacting with the foxes at Zao Fox Village?
Yes, Zao Fox Village has strict rules for feeding and interaction to ensure the well-being of both visitors and the foxes. Feeding is only permitted in designated areas using specific food provided by the village. Never feed foxes outside these zones or with your own food. Interaction, such as holding a fox, is usually supervised by staff at specific times and locations. Always listen to and follow staff instructions carefully.
8. What are the best photo opportunities at Ginzan Onsen, especially regarding the evening lights?
Ginzan Onsen offers picturesque photo opportunities, particularly in the evening. The classic shot captures the historic wooden ryokan illuminated by gas lamps along the river, often reflected beautifully on the water or snow. The bridges spanning the river also provide charming vantage points. During winter, the contrast of the warm lights against the surrounding snow creates an exceptionally photogenic scene, capturing the essence of the nostalgic townscape.
