What to know
Nestled at 880 meters on the slopes of volcanic Mount Zao, the charming hot spring town of Zao Onsen (蔵王温泉) is a year-round destination. In winter, it transforms into one of Japan's premier ski resorts, where visitors can unwind in traditional hot spring baths after a day on the slopes.
Zao Onsen's sulfur-rich waters are among the most acidic in Japan, with a pH close to 1. These therapeutic waters can be enjoyed at several public bathhouses scattered around town, ranging from quaint, old-fashioned community baths to a modern facility with multiple pools. The highlight is the Zao Dai-Rotemburo outdoor bath, though it is closed during winter.
Most ryokan and many hotels and pensions in Zao Onsen provide hot spring baths for their guests. Some also open their baths to day visitors for a small fee.
Here are some of the public baths in Zao Onsen:
Ratings: best of the best best of Japan outstanding
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 9:30 to 17:00 (until 18:00 on weekends and national holidays)
- Closed
- late November to mid April
- Admission
- 800 yen (~$5.12)
- English name
- Zao Onsen
- Original name
- Zao Onsen Baths
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.