Zao Onsen Ski Resort

NEAREST AIRPORTS (by road): SENDAI 85min, NARITA (TOKYO) 4.5hrs, HANEDA (TOKYO) 4hrs

Zao Onsen is a stunning traditional Japanese village situated in the northern part of Honshu, the main island of Japan. Zao serves as an onsen resort, featuring natural hot springs that flow throughout the village, including public bathhouses and private onsens. The ski resort is expansive, offering a variety of runs suitable for all skill levels, although most of the on-piste terrain caters primarily to beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders. One of Zao’s unique highlights is the renowned “Snow Monsters” that appear on the trees during winter, which are definitely worth seeing! Zao is conveniently reachable via the Shinkansen from Tokyo, followed by a bus ride to the resort. Like many traditional resorts, the town has a restricted nightlife, although it does have a selection of eateries to satisfy your appetite after a day on the slopes.

Ski Pass

Approx. Season

Dec–Apr
Ski Slopes

Ski Slopes

Easiest 40%
Intermediate 40%
Most difficult 20%
Total Trails 50 km
Facilities

Facilities

Terrain Park No
Half Pipe/s No
Mountain

Vertical / Summit

Summit Elevation 1661 m
Base Elevation 780 m
Vertical Drop 881 m
Longest Run 10 km
Ski Lifts

Lifts

Gondolas, Cable, Rail 4
Lifts, Bars, Carpet 31
Night Skiing Yes
Services

Services

Ski School Yes
Child Care Yes
Food, Bars and Shops

Food, Bars & Shops

Approx. 20 See eateries guide below.
Activities

Activities

Zao Onsen has the famous snow monsters that are visible at night in the winter. Also unwinding in the many onsens (hot springs)in the quaint historic village or guided snowshoe tours if you have the energy, and more.

Ski Resort Map

Ski Resort

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