Mount Zao, a volcano near Sendai 蔵王山
Okama crater - visit the 5-colored pond
Mount Zao is a mountain nestled in the Tohoku region, between the prefectures of Miyagi and Yamagata. Located in the middle of a quasi-national park, it is known for its tourist complex around its onsen, its ski resorts, and its hiking trails.
The volcano surmounted by a lake
Like many mountains in Japan, Mount Zao is a volcanic formation, the last known activity of which dates back to 1940.
This eminence, which culminates at 1840 meters above sea level, belongs to the list of the 100 most famous mountains in Japan, a classification which can be justified by the mere presence of Lake Okama. The latter, 27 meters deep and 1 kilometer in circumference, is not far from the summit, at 1550 meters above sea level, and attracts many tourists with its circular outline and the constantly changing shimmer of its water.
Lake Okama
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INicknamed the "goshiki numa" or "pond with 5 colors", this lake changes according to the time of day and the weather from turquoise green to emerald green. Note that the very high acidity makes Lake Okama a dead lake where no form of life can develop.
- Read also: Lake Toya
A superb tourist complex
Mount Zao seems to have been created on purpose by nature to welcome visitors.
At the foot of the mountain, there is an onsen which, according to legend, was discovered in the year 110. This makes it one of the oldest hot springs in Japan, prized for its acidity which is said to soften the skin and cure digestive problems.
The Dai Rotenburo at Zaô Onsen
Yamagata
The sides of the mountain are also open to many activities. The ski slopes are famous, in particular, because of the presence of the famous "juhyô", which means "frozen tree", these trees are covered with snow and take the form of a monster.
Due to the winds coming from Siberia and the Sea of Japan, these "ice monsters" remain throughout the winter season
Contemplate the ice monsters before hitting the slopes!
Jerome Laborde
The mountain is also particularly suitable for hiking. Divided into three zones (North of Zao, Center of Zao, and South of Zao), the trek trails mostly lead to Lake Okama. Beginning with paths lined with dense vegetation made of alpine trees, nature clears up about halfway and quickly allows for breathtaking views of the Miyagi area.
The statue of Boddhisatva Jizo, built in the 18th century on one end of the mountain to watch over the souls of walkers who died during the ascent, is, along with Lake Okama, one of the jewels of the place. And for those who wish to enjoy the panorama without getting tired, the Zao Sanroku cable car takes you to the heights effortlessly.
- Read also: Hiking in Japan
Mount Zao in autumn
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Address, timetable & access
Address
Timetable
Take the JR bus from JR Yamagata station to the Zao Onsen stop (40 min).
