What other travelers are saying about Zao Onsen Ski Resort
A frustrating experience at this open ski area. It’s easy to get lost, and I somehow managed to lose my cell phone in the process. There are too many flat areas where you’re forced to take off your snowboard and walk—definitely not ideal. The weather didn’t help, and to top it off, there were way too many non-skiers taking the cable car up just for photos, blocking the way for those of us trying to actually ski. Not the best place for serious snow sports enthusiasts!
A Paradise of Snow Monsters and Winter Adventures
If you’re traveling to Yamagata in winter, Zao Onsen Ski Resort is a must-visit destination.
The resort offers a diverse range of courses for all levels from gentle slopes to tight tree runs
Get into the Zao Rope Way Sanrokusen for Juhyo Kogen station where you can have some fun with the snow.
From Juhyo Kogen Station get into the Zao Rope Way Sanchosen and you will reach to the top(around 1661m). In you way you can see the Snow Monsters
JFYI: there might be strong winds at the top so make sure to be prepared with proper wears and shoes.
For skiers/snowboarders: the resort is huge and it’s easy to get lost. So have a course map with you.
For snowboards : there are lots of flat areas where you have to remove your snowboard and walk for the next lift.
Access: Get a bus from Yamagata Station to Zao Onsen. A one way ticket will cost around 1200Yen
Best experience in Japan. You have to check the weather first. On a fine day, the monster are visible and you can play with snow. We took the ropeway. There are 2 station on the way. Last one is the main spot to see the mighty snow monster. There is also ski area and onsen area. Ropeway round trip price is around 4200 yen. At night there are some illumination also. It was freezing ❄️ cold. Must wear snow boots and take heat patch. It will helpful to survive 😅. Once in a life time experience as Yamagata has one of the highest snowfall area. For ski, pre booking is must. There are restaurant on the last stop. On the first floor, one suvenior shop is there. Vending machine is available to buy hot drinks. Washroom facilities are also in good condition. 10/10 ( as i get the perfect views and nice weather ) in
Nice view from the top with the clear sky. You can go easily from Yamagata Station. But please be cautioned, the ropeway can be crowded during the holiday. Please check and reserve for priority access if you don't want to wait.
Beautiful scenery..
But… the chairlift design is pretty convoluted and it’s extremely difficult to get to the top (unless you’re willing to wait in line for an hour for cable car)
Slopes are just okay and it felt like I spent the session more on getting to and riding the scattered chairlifts than I did on skiing
