Find hotels in Zao from ￥4,053

Top reasons to visit Zao

• Thrilling Ski Resorts: Zao is a top destination for ski enthusiasts, featuring a variety of slopes and winter sports activities.
• Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in soothing onsen, offering a perfect retreat after a day of adventure.
• Stunning Nature: Explore breathtaking mountain views and picturesque landscapes that make Zao a nature lover's paradise.
• Unique Accommodations: Stay in traditional ryokans or cozy hotels, many equipped with hot springs and spa services.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local customs and traditions while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the area.

Find great hotels in and around Zao

Zao, nestled in Miyagi Prefecture, offers a diverse array of accommodations, including hotels and traditional ryokans. Ideal for travelers seeking a rejuvenating experience, many options feature hot springs and spa services. Enjoy pet-friendly stays while exploring the picturesque landscapes. With convenient access and free Wi-Fi, you can easily plan your adventures in Zao and nearby Yamagata. Discover the perfect getaway tailored to your needs in this serene mountain retreat.

• Hotel Route-Inn Natori: This 3-star hotel is an excellent choice for business travelers seeking convenience and comfort. Located 27.4km from Zao, it boasts a range of business amenities, including a fully equipped Business Center. Guests appreciate the modern accommodations that cater to their professional needs while providing a relaxing atmosphere. Whether you're in town for meetings or conferences, Hotel Route-Inn Natori ensures a productive stay with easy access to major transportation routes.
• Hotel Route Inn Natori Iwanuma Interchange: Situated 24.1km from Zao, this 3-star hotel combines comfort and practicality with its delightful dining options. Guests can enjoy a complimentary daily breakfast and savor meals at the on-site restaurant. Entertainment features like a Flatscreen TV and additional television options make unwinding after a day of exploration easy. Ideal for those looking for a hassle-free stay, Hotel Route Inn Natori Iwanuma Interchange offers a cozy retreat with convenient access to local attractions.
• Mercure Miyagi Zao Resort & Spa: Nestled in the heart of Zao, this 3.5-star hotel is perfect for travelers seeking a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. Renowned for its hot spring and ski-themed amenities, the resort features an onsite natural hot spring, as well as public indoor and outdoor ryokan onsens. With LGBTQIA-friendly accommodations and a ski shuttle nearby, guests can indulge in a rejuvenating experience after a day on the slopes. Mercure Miyagi Zao Resort & Spa is a welcoming haven for all visitors, ensuring a memorable stay in this beautiful region.

Where to stay near Zao

For an unforgettable vacation, Zao in Miyagi Prefecture offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Known for its thrilling ski resorts and abundant nature, visitors can enjoy exhilarating sports activities or unwind in beautiful onsen. The cozy retreats in the area provide a serene escape, making it an ideal destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax amidst stunning landscapes. Discover the charm of Zao and create lasting memories in this extraordinary region.

• Kawasaki: Located a mere 8.0km from Zao, Kawasaki is a vibrant city that beckons travelers seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and wellness activities. With a steady influx of visitors year-round, the peak seasons from August to October offer a lively atmosphere. Guests can indulge in body treatments and motor racing, or simply unwind at the nearby hot springs and lakes. Kawasaki’s unique blend of modernity and tradition makes it an appealing destination for those looking to rejuvenate and explore.
• Obara Onsen: Just 9.7km from Zao, Obara Onsen is a quaint village famous for its soothing onsen experiences. This destination attracts visitors throughout the year, with a surge in numbers from August to October. Travelers come to Obara Onsen for wellness and cultural activities, including ski adventures during the winter months. Explore the serene onsen and hot springs, or visit the historical castle nearby. Obara Onsen offers a perfect retreat for those looking to relax and connect with nature.
• Shiroishi: Situated 12.9km from Zao, Shiroishi is a city steeped in culture and wellness. The city experiences a consistent flow of tourists, with peak visits in April and from September to October. Shiroishi is ideal for those interested in skiing and sports, with easy access to ski fields and body treatment services. Local attractions, including hot springs and a stadium, provide visitors with a diverse range of activities. Shiroishi's rich history and modern amenities make it a wonderful stop on your journey.

Things to do near Zao

Zao is a fantastic destination for ski enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering a variety of activities to enjoy. Visitors can hit the slopes at the popular ski fields, indulge in rejuvenating body treatments, and immerse themselves in the vibrant winter sports scene. Whether you're skiing down pristine trails or relaxing after a day of adventure, Zao promises an unforgettable vacation experience in Miyagi Prefecture.

Shopping

In Zao, visit the Asaichi Morning Market for local delicacies and crafts. If you're up for a drive, Sunmall Ichibancho and Sendai Ginza Street, both 30.6km away, offer vibrant shopping experiences with a mix of entertainment, family-friendly activities, and a variety of stores.

Recreation

Zao Bodaira Highlands offers a tranquil retreat with stunning landscapes and relaxation vibes, perfect for unwinding in nature. For sports enthusiasts, the Sendai Gymnasium provides an energetic atmosphere with various activities, while the Kakuda Civil Golf Course combines outdoor beauty with a challenging golf experience amidst lush scenery.

Adventure

At Zao Hot Springs Ski Resort, experience thrilling skiing on pristine slopes, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. For motorsport fans, Sportsland SUGO offers heart-pounding races and a vibrant atmosphere. Take in breathtaking views on the Zao Sanroku Ropeway, a scenic gondola ride ideal for families and adventurers alike.

Nightlife

In Zao, the Sendai Astronomical Observatory offers a unique night under the stars with its planetarium shows. For thrill-seekers, Benyland's arcade provides adventure-filled gaming, while the Port Flower Ferris Wheel delivers stunning nighttime views of the surrounding area.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Zao

To save money on your trip to Zao, consider visiting in March or June to July when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and aim for a Tuesday stay, as it's the least expensive day. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals and package discounts that combine hotels, flights, and activities. Always check for free cancellation options and sort prices from lowest to highest for the best deals. This way, you can enjoy Zao without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Zao are March and June to July, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January to February and August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Zao about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Zao is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Zao is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For the best prices and deals, be sure to sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Zao hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Zao

Zao is an ideal destination for ski enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore stunning mountains, relax in soothing hot springs, and enjoy the beauty of urban parks. With a variety of attractions catering to both nature lovers and those interested in local culture, Zao promises a memorable vacation filled with scenic adventures and relaxation.

• Okama Crater: This stunning volcanic crater offers breathtaking scenery with its unique emerald green lake at the center, surrounded by rugged mountain terrain. The views from the rim are especially captivating, making it a perfect spot for photography and nature lovers.
• Mt. Zao: A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, Mt. Zao provides thrilling adventure opportunities such as hiking and skiing. The panoramic vistas from the summit reveal the beauty of the surrounding landscape, especially during sunrise and sunset.
• Togatta Onsen: Immerse yourself in relaxation at Togatta Onsen, a tranquil hot spring area. Surrounded by nature, it offers a serene atmosphere to unwind, recharge, and enjoy the healing properties of its mineral-rich waters.

Best time to go to Zao

The best time to visit Zao can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Zao falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Zao falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	33.8°F (1.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
February	34.5°F (1.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	59.5°F (15.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	65.8°F (18.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
July	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
August	75.7°F (24.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	49.3°F (9.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	39.0°F (3.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Zao

Traveling to Zao, Miyagi Prefecture, is convenient with two major airports nearby. Sendai Airport (SDJ) is located 30.6km from Zao, and excellent hotel options include The Westin Sendai, Hotel Metropolitan Sendai East, and Hotel Metropolitan Sendai, all approximately 14.5km from the airport. Alternatively, Yamagata Airport (GAJ) is situated 38.6km from Zao, with notable accommodations such as Tendoso and Azumaso, both 6.4km away, and Hotel Symphony Honkan - Sagae Hot Spring, 9.7km from the airport. Both airports offer transportation services to ensure a smooth journey to your destination.