Mount Zaō, Volcanic mountain range between Miyagi and Yamagata Prefecture, Japan
Zaō is a volcanic massif on the border between two prefectures in northern Japan, made up of several cones and lava domes. On the central peak lies a round crater lake with turquoise blue water, surrounded by steep walls of ash and rock.
The volcanic peaks formed over millennia through successive eruptions that built up layers of lava and ash cones. The last activity occurred in the mid-20th century and left visible traces on the slopes and around the crater.
The peaks have served as a place for spiritual exercises by monks for centuries, and pilgrims still walk here today to perform rituals. Hikers often encounter small shrines and prayer flags along the trails, which testify to the religious roots of the region.
The approach is via cable cars or hiking trails, with different equipment needed depending on the chosen route. In winter, one should wear warm clothing and non-slip boots, as snow and ice cover the paths.
The crater lake changes its color between green, gray and blue depending on the light and acidity of the water. In the cold season, trees transform into white sculptures through freezing water, rising like ghosts from the snow.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
Zaō Onsen
5.8 km
Miyagi Zao Fox Village
12.8 km
Kaminoyama Castle
15.4 km
Bunshōkan
16.4 km
Kajō Central
16.6 km
Jōmon Goddess
16.4 km
Kattamine-jinja
11.2 km
山形テルサ
16.5 km
Daiei Yamagata
16 km
Motoki Stone Torii
14.7 km
Zaōsan-jinja
1.2 km
Senshō-ji
15.7 km
Yamagataken-Gokoku-jinja
16.6 km
刈田嶺神社
969 m
Yamagata City Hall
16.3 km
Sankai Falls
7 km
光禪寺
15.2 km
Yamagata city library
15 km
Byōbu Dake
5.1 km
Nametsu Falls
14.4 km
Kaisendō
15 km
Yamagata Prefectural Library
16.1 km
Yamagata Wild Flower Park
15.3 km
Aone Western-style House
7.6 km
Yamagata Creative City Center Q1
16.1 km
Tokiwa bridge
15.2 km
山形大橋
15 km
Sky Tower 41
14.7 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes