Yamagata Zao Onsen
Zao Onsen, Yamagata Prefecture, Japan
- Location
- Zao Onsen, Yamagata Prefecture, Japan
- Water type
- sulfurous
- Temperature
- 45 °C
- pH
- 6.5
Water profile
Thermicity
Sedative
LowHigh
Relaxing — deep, immediate muscle release.
Mineralisation
Bio-active
LowHigh
Rich in active gases or metals — a strong mineral character.
Buoyancy
Standard buoyancy
LowHigh
Soft water — natural, classic buoyancy.
SoufreSulfuresSulfates
Soak in the natural hot springs of Yamagata Zao Onsen, a popular thermal destination in Japan's Yamagata Prefecture. The onsen is famous for its 'snow monsters' (juhyo), trees covered in snow and ice. The water type is sulfatée, rich in minerals. Relax in a serene atmosphere surrounded by nature.
Insider tip — Zao Onsen perches at 880 meters on the flanks of the active Zao volcano in Tohoku, producing intensely acidic sulfurous water — pH as low as 1.2 — that turns the pools a milky turquoise. The Dai-Rotemburo outdoor communal bath is one of Japan's largest wooden-framed open-air onsen. In winter the surrounding forest transforms into the famed 'snow monsters' (juhyo), making a soak here an otherworldly experience.
Nearby
Frequently asked questions
How hot is the water?
The water runs quite hot here, around 45 °C — a sedative water that brings immediate muscle release.
What type of water is found here?
This spot features sulfurous water.
What is the best season to visit?
The most favourable period for this spot is: Toute l'année (idéal automne-hiver).