Zao Vacations

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Your Zao Vacation

With a vacation package to Zao, say goodbye to endless planning and hello to hassle-free adventure. Every detail of your getaway has been taken care of before you go, so you can get on with experiencing this exciting city. Zao Fox Village, Togatta Onsen and Kamasaki Onsen are just a few of the attractions worth checking out during your trip to Zao. Stop dreaming and start adventuring. Explore the multitude of options on Expedia today and put your Zao vacation plans in motion!

Discover the most popular places to visit in Zao

Zao Hotel Deals

Mercure Miyagi Zao Resort & Spa

Mercure Miyagi Zao Resort & Spa

4 out of 5
1-1 Aza-oni-ishihara, Togatta-onsen Zao Miyagi-ken
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$54 nightly
The price is $59 total per night from Jan 27 to Jan 28
$59 total
Jan 27 - Jan 28
7.8/10 Good! (412 reviews)
Did not including breakfast

Reviewed on Dec 15, 2025

Mercure Miyagi Zao Resort & Spa
Hotel Keihan Sendai

Hotel Keihan Sendai

3.5 out of 5
3-3-5 Chuo Sendai Miyagi
$59 nightly
The price is $64 total per night from Jan 27 to Jan 28
$64 total
Jan 27 - Jan 28
9/10 Wonderful! (353 reviews)
Everything is good!

Reviewed on Dec 17, 2025

Hotel Keihan Sendai
The OneFive Sendai

The OneFive Sendai

3 out of 5
4-6-28 Tsutsujigaoka, Miyagino-ku Sendai Miyagi
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$24 nightly
The price is $27 total per night from Jan 19 to Jan 20
$27 total
Jan 19 - Jan 20
8.6/10 Excellent! (588 reviews)
Clean, convenient location, nice staff.

Reviewed on Dec 30, 2025

The OneFive Sendai
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Find the Best Zao Vacation Packages

Things to do in and around Zao

Zao in Miyagi Prefecture is a fantastic destination for sports and adventure enthusiasts, particularly for skiing. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including skiing at its famous resorts, night skiing, and snowboarding holidays. Relaxation options like body treatments are also available, making it an ideal spot for a ski vacation or holiday getaway.

Shopping

In Zao, visit the Asaichi Morning Market for local produce and crafts. If you're up for a drive, check out Sunmall Ichibancho and Sendai Ginza Street, both 19 miles away, offering a variety of shops, entertainment, and family-friendly experiences.

Recreation

Experience the energetic atmosphere at Sendai Gymnasium, just 17 miles from Zao, perfect for sports enthusiasts. Enjoy golfing at Kakuda Civil Golf Course, 14 miles away, surrounded by nature. For ultimate relaxation, visit Zao Bodaira Highlands, 11 miles from Zao, offering serene wellness and rejuvenation vibes.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Sportsland SUGO, located 10 miles from Zao, where adrenaline meets adventure. For family fun, try the Zao Super Slider tobogganing park, 11 miles away. In the heart of Zao, Sumikawa Snow Park offers fantastic skiing opportunities for all skill levels.

Nightlife

Zao's nightlife offers a cozy atmosphere with local izakayas serving delicious Japanese cuisine. Visit Zao Onsen's bars for unique sake experiences, or relax at the Zao Sky Plaza while enjoying stunning mountain views. Don't miss the chance to soak in an onsen after a night out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in and around Zao

Zao, located in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, is perfect for sports and adventure vacations, especially for skiing enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful hot springs, explore the stunning Mount Zao, and relax in excellent onsen facilities. The area offers a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, making it ideal for travelers seeking picturesque scenery and unique adventures, including onsen skiing. Whether you're hitting the slopes or soaking in a hot spring, Zao promises a memorable getaway.

  • Okama Crater: Nestled within the stunning landscapes of Zao, Okama Crater boasts breathtaking views and vibrant emerald waters. The unique shape of the crater and its stunning natural beauty make it a must-see for nature lovers and photographers alike.
  • Mt. Zao: For adventurers, Mt. Zao offers thrilling outdoor experiences. Hike its scenic trails, enjoy panoramic vistas, and immerse yourself in the area's rich biodiversity. In winter, it's a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding.
  • Michinoku Lakeside National Government Park: Located about 6 miles from Zao, this urban park is perfect for families seeking outdoor fun. With beautiful lakes, walking paths, and picnic areas, it provides a peaceful escape from the city vibe.

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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January33.8°F (1.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
February34.5°F (1.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
March41.4°F (5.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May59.5°F (15.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June65.8°F (18.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
July73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
August75.7°F (24.3°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September69.1°F (20.6°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December39.0°F (3.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage

Tips to save on your trip to Zao

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Zao.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically March and June to July) for more affordable package holidays to Zao.
  • 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.

Zao Essential Information

Language
Japanese
Currency
Japanese yens
Local Welcome
Konnichiwa
Local Goodbye
Sayōnara
Closest Airport
Sendai Airport (SDJ)
Max Temp Winter
35ºF
Max Temp Summer
80ºF
Top Sights
Togatta Onsen, Sumikawa Snow Park and Takimidai Lookout

Zao Ski Vacation Packages

When you hear snow-covered peaks calling, snag a pile of savings with one of our Zao ski vacation packages. Slice through the powder by day, hit the après-ski scene after sundown and vacation your own way with Expedia. Among the most sought-after winter sports destinations in Japan, Zao has around 14 runs that are open from December to February every year. Make your way to a beginners' area and work on your technique before going downhill skiing. If you need some extra gear, you can rent it at the ski village. When it's time to leave the slopes and click out of your skis, head over to the wellness center and spa here. It's a great way to soothe sore muscles after a day of downhill action. If you're booking a family ski vacation in Zao, your kids will have an awesome time tobogganing, snowboarding and night skiing.

How To Get Around

Pick up one of Expedia's Zao vacation packages and your next unforgettable adventure is just a plane ride away. After jetting into Yamagata, it's 45 minutes to get to this terrific ski destination. It takes 15 minutes to get to the runs from central Zao, and parking is free. If you're driving in winter, tire chains are recommended. Select from season-pass, weekend-pass and full-day tickets based on your ski vacation plans and budget. When it comes to budgets, Expedia's Zao ski package deals will make sure you don't stray from yours. Combine your flight, hotel and car rental and watch the savings add up like snow on a slope.

Zao Ski Accommodations

Your Zao vacation package can also include a hotel. After a day spent zipping through the snow, hang up your ski goggles and unwind at one of the 2 accommodations in and near this destination. Our favorites include:

  • Baden-ya Soho: Score a room here and take advantage of amenities such as windsurfing and massage services.
  • Pension Yamanoie Lapisu: Base yourself at this in-demand stay which has free WiFi and comfy slippers.

Take a peek at our full selection of Zao accommodations and start planning your ski vacation! From simple to stylish, you can tailor your ski trip package to your budget and taste.

Zao Resort Ski Info

Average yearly snowfall
39 ft
Elevation of lowest ski lift
2,559 ft
Cost of 1-day lift pass
Under $50
Easy runs
14
Moderate runs
14
Advanced runs
7
Longest run
6.2 mi

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Frequently asked questions

How much does a Zao vacation package cost?
You can snap up a vacation package to this top destination on Expedia. But how much your vacation to Zao costs will depend on factors like your hotel choice, length of stay and season.
What are the cheapest months to go to Zao?
You're likely to find lower rates and greater availability in April, August and December. Take a look at our cheap Zao vacation packages and you could score some excellent off-season deals.
How many days is enough for Zao?
Typically, a few days is enough for a Zao vacation. With a carefully crafted itinerary, you can check out all the top attractions like Zao Dairy Farm, as well as discover some hidden treasures along the way.
Is it worth booking a vacation package to Zao?
Zao is a good vacation destination with attractions like Togatta Onsen among the many things to keep you busy. Whether you're traveling with the family or planning a trip with friends, a Zao vacation promises a good time for everyone.
How to find the best Zao package deals?
Begin your search for a Zao package deal by entering your preferred trip dates and destination under our "Packages" tab. Then apply a few filters, like "Property type" and "Guest rating," to tailor the results to your exact needs. You can also sort by "Package discount" and browse offers that come with irresistible savings. If you don't find the perfect Zao package deal right away, just change your dates and search again. Remember that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Zao escape underway.
Is it cheaper to book a Zao vacation as a package?
An Expedia vacation package could score you significant savings when compared to arranging accommodations and flights separately. Better still, you can customize your Zao trip to fit your exact needs. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Browse our great deals to see how much you can save.
When to book a vacation package to Zao?
If you have your Zao vacation dates locked in, book as early as you can to snap up some awesome deals. With Expedia, you can generally reserve some flights up to one year ahead of time. Prefer spur-of-the-moment getaways? Our last-minute deals are ideal for impromptu escapes.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Zao vacation packages?
If you're like us, you love traveling but are not a fan of the price tag that can come with it. That's why we've created Book Now, Pay Later vacations. With help from online lender Affirm, you can spread the total cost of your Zao break over 3, 6 or 12 months. There are also no hidden or late payment fees, so you can secure great vacation packages with payment plans as soon as you see them.

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.