Zao Shiki no Hotel

Zao Shiki no Hotel stands beside a small lake in the forest above Zao Onsen. Its European-influenced exterior and broad public rooms set it apart from the town’s older wooden inns, while the highland landscape remains close through windows, walking paths and the changing mountain weather.

Guests cross to Hanareyu Hyakuhappo for strongly mineral Zao water, used free-flowing in indoor and open-air baths. A sauna adds another bathing rhythm, particularly welcome after hiking or a day on the slopes. The experience is more expansive than intimate, with nature carrying much of the atmosphere.

Dinner pairs Yamagata ingredients with a hotel-style course format. This is a practical choice for travellers who want forest quiet and serious hot-spring water alongside the space and ease of a resort hotel, with seasonal shuttle service connecting the property to Yamagata and the onsen terminal.