Zao Holidays

Things to do in and around Zao

Zao, located in Miyagi Prefecture, is a fantastic destination for sports and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can indulge in a variety of activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and relaxing in onsen after a thrilling day on the slopes. With its excellent ski runs and night skiing opportunities, Zao offers an unforgettable winter holiday experience, making it ideal for both ski and snowboard holidays.

Shopping

The Asaichi Morning Market, located 30.6km away from Zao, offers a vibrant atmosphere for local produce and unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, explore Sunmall Ichibancho and Sendai Ginza Street, both 30.6km away, where you'll find a mix of shopping, entertainment, and family-friendly activities.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at Zao Bodaira Highlands, where serene landscapes offer a perfect escape for relaxation and rejuvenation. Engage in sports activities at Sendai Gymnasium, or enjoy family entertainment at Sendai Astronomical Observatory, where stargazing adds a touch of wonder to your visit.

Adventure

At Sportsland SUGO, located 16.1km from Zao, experience the thrill of motor racing amidst a vibrant sports atmosphere. For skiing enthusiasts, Sumikawa Snow Park offers fantastic slopes right in Zao, while the Zao Super Slider, 17.7km away, promises exhilarating tobogganing fun for families and adventurers alike.

Nightlife

Zao's nightlife offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences. Visit the Zao Onsen area for soothing hot springs and quaint izakayas serving local delicacies. For a lively atmosphere, enjoy karaoke at a local venue or sip sake at a charming bar nestled in the mountains.

Find the best attractions in Zao

Zao, located in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, is an ideal destination for sports and adventure enthusiasts, particularly during the ski season. Visitors can enjoy attractions such as the Zao Onsen Ski Resort, Mount Zao, and Yamagata Zao Onsen Ski Resort, which offer breathtaking scenery and outdoor experiences. With its combination of hot springs, mountains, and urban parks, Zao provides a rich cultural and scenic experience for all types of travellers seeking adventure and relaxation.

• Miyagi Zao Kokeshi Doll Hall: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Japan at this charming museum dedicated to Kokeshi dolls. With exquisite craftsmanship on display, visitors can learn about the history and significance of this traditional art form, making it a delightful experience for art enthusiasts and culture lovers alike.
• Okama Crater: Experience breathtaking scenery at Okama Crater, known for its stunning emerald-coloured lake nestled within a volcanic caldera. The panoramic views from the surrounding trails provide an unforgettable photo opportunity, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
• Mt. Zao: Adventure awaits at Mt. Zao, where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking and skiing on its diverse terrain. The mountain offers spectacular vistas and a chance to connect with nature, making it an ideal destination for thrill-seekers and scenery admirers.

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

Tips to save on your trip to Zao

• Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
• Consider traveling to Zao during the low season (March and June to July) for more affordable options.
• Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
• Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.