Find hotels in Zao from $28

These Zao insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 26, 2026.

Top reasons to visit Zao

• Thrilling Skiing: Zao Ski Resort offers an exhilarating skiing experience with stunning slopes perfect for all skill levels.
• Relaxing Onsens: Unwind in the nearby hot springs, known for their therapeutic benefits and serene settings.
• Cultural Experiences: Engage in traditional taiko drumming and explore local customs, enhancing your cultural immersion.
• Stunning Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking mountain views and picturesque urban parks, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from cozy ryokans to modern hotels, many with rejuvenating spa services.

Find great hotels in and around Zao

Discover the charm of Zao, Miyagi Prefecture, where a variety of accommodations await you, from traditional ryokans to modern hotels. Ideal for travelers seeking relaxation, many establishments feature rejuvenating hot springs and spa services. Whether you're looking for pet-friendly options or the renowned Zao Kokusai Hotel, you'll find the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring this scenic area. Experience the best of Japanese hospitality in this serene mountain retreat.

• Hotel Route-Inn Natori: Hotel Route-Inn Natori is a 3-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.8, ideal for business travelers seeking convenience and comfort. Located 17 miles from Zao, this property offers a practical lodging experience with essential amenities. Guests appreciate the clean and modern rooms, as well as the complimentary breakfast that kickstarts the day. The hotel also features a cozy lounge area, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of meetings or exploration.
• Hotel Route Inn Natori Iwanuma Interchange: Hotel Route Inn Natori Iwanuma Interchange boasts a guest rating of 9.0 and is situated 15 miles from Zao. This 3-star property is designed to cater to both leisure and business visitors. Starting your day with a complimentary breakfast is a highlight, and the onsite dining options, including dinner at an unspecified restaurant, ensure that guests have a variety of meal choices. The hotel's entertainment options, featuring flat-screen TVs, create a relaxed atmosphere for unwinding after a busy day.
• Mercure Miyagi Zao Resort & Spa: Mercure Miyagi Zao Resort & Spa is a 3.5-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.0, perfect for those yearning for a ski or spa getaway. Located directly in Zao, this property is renowned for its natural hot springs, including both indoor and outdoor public onsen facilities, providing a truly relaxing experience. Guests can enjoy a full-service spa that offers a range of treatments, from facials to aromatherapy. Additionally, ski shuttle services are available, making it easy to hit the slopes before returning to unwind in the spa.

Where to stay near Zao

Experience the thrill of adventure in Zao, Miyagi Prefecture, where winter sports reign supreme. From the stunning Zao mountains to the relaxing Zao Onsen, this destination offers the perfect winter getaway. Explore the nearby Yamagata Zao for incredible ski conditions and immerse yourself in the local culture. Whether you're hitting the slopes or unwinding in a hot spring, Zao promises unforgettable memories for every traveler seeking excitement and relaxation.

• Kawasaki: Nestled about 5 miles from Zao, Kawasaki is a vibrant city that offers a blend of wellness, culture, and sports experiences. Visitors flock to Kawasaki year-round, with peak arrivals in August and October to November. The city features an array of activities, including body treatments and skiing at nearby ski fields. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the local landmarks such as relaxing onsens, picturesque hot springs, and serene lakes, making Kawasaki an inviting destination for rejuvenation and adventure.
• Obara Onsen: Located 6 miles from Zao, the quaint village of Obara Onsen is a hidden gem renowned for its tranquil onsen experiences. Like Kawasaki, visitor numbers remain steady throughout the year, peaking in August and October to November. Obara Onsen is perfect for those seeking wellness and outdoor activities, with options such as body treatments and nearby ski fields. The village also boasts charming local attractions, including exquisite hot springs and a fascinating museum, ensuring a culturally rich experience for travelers.
• Shiroishi: Just 8 miles from Zao, Shiroishi is a culturally rich city that appeals to visitors looking for wellness and sports activities. With steady traveler numbers, Shiroishi sees peaks in April and September to October. The city offers a variety of experiences, including body treatments and skiing at accessible ski fields. Local attractions include soothing onsens, invigorating hot springs, and historic sites, making Shiroishi a delightful stop for those eager to immerse themselves in Japanese culture and enjoy outdoor adventures.

Things to do in Zao

Zao, located in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, is a fantastic destination for adventure enthusiasts, offering thrilling skiing opportunities and rejuvenating onsen bathing. Visitors can enjoy skiing on its renowned slopes, experience traditional taiko drumming, and explore local attractions. Additionally, Zao provides various entertainment venues, ensuring a well-rounded vacation filled with sports, relaxation, and cultural experiences.

Shopping

Zao offers charming local shops where you can find traditional crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Sendai's AER Shopping Mall for a wider selection of stores, including fashion and electronics, or visit the Sendai Mitsukoshi for upscale brands and unique gifts.

Recreation

Experience rejuvenation at Zao Onsen, where you can soak in natural hot springs surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Enjoy traditional ryokan hospitality and savor local cuisine. For outdoor fun, explore the scenic hiking trails or try your hand at skiing on the beautiful slopes in winter.

Adventure

In Zao, experience thrilling skiing and snowboarding on powdery slopes at Zao Onsen Ski Resort. Explore the enchanting Zao Ice Monsters during winter, where trees are transformed into stunning ice formations. Don't miss the relaxing Zao Onsen hot springs to unwind after a day of adventure.

Nightlife

Explore the lively atmosphere at Zao Onsen Ski Resort's bars, where you can enjoy warm drinks after a day on the slopes. Don't miss the local izakayas for authentic Japanese cuisine and a chance to mingle with locals and fellow travelers.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Zao

• 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 selections based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, 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 and around Zao

Zao, located in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, offers an exciting blend of sports and adventure, making it perfect for a vacation. Visitors can enjoy skiing at the Zao Ski Resort, relax in the nearby hot springs, and explore the stunning mountain scenery and urban parks. With plenty of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, Zao caters to travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Don't forget to check out hotels near Zao Onsen for a comfortable stay.

• Mt. Zao: Experience breathtaking scenery and thrilling outdoor adventures at Mt. Zao. This majestic mountain offers a variety of activities, from hiking to skiing, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
• Sakunami Hot Spring: Located 16 miles from Zao, Sakunami Hot Spring is a serene escape for wellness and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the soothing waters surrounded by nature, and rejuvenate your body and mind in this tranquil setting.
• Okama Crater: Discover the stunning beauty of Okama Crater, a volcanic crater known for its vibrant emerald lake. The picturesque views and unique geological features make it a must-visit spot for photography and nature enthusiasts.

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 three major airports nearby. Sendai Airport (SDJ) is located 19 miles away, with excellent hotel options like The Westin Sendai and Hotel Metropolitan Sendai, both 9 miles from the airport. Yamagata Airport (GAJ) is 24 miles from Zao, offering nearby accommodations such as Hotel Metropolitan Yamagata and Tendo Onsen TAKINOYU, both 11 miles and 4 miles from the airport, respectively. Lastly, Niigata Airport (KIJ) is 81 miles away, with hotels like Hotel Nikko Niigata and ANA Crowne Plaza Niigata, situated 3 miles and 4 miles from the airport. These airports provide good access to your Zao adventure.