Zao Okama Crater Lake and Togatta Onsen Course

The Zao mountains rising on the border of Miyagi and Yamagata are a highland area known for stunning scenery through the seasons. Chief among the sights is Okama, the emerald green crater lake that represents Zao. At the foot flows Togatta Onsen, said to have been discovered more than four hundred years ago, letting you enjoy grand nature and a fine hot spring at once. Here is a one day course to savor the appeal of Zao.

Course Route

9:00 Start at Shiroishizao Station Begin at Shiroishizao Station on the bullet train line. From here head toward Zao by car or bus. Climb the mountain while enjoying the scenery that changes as the elevation rises.

10:30 Zao Echo Line Drive the Zao Echo Line, a mountain road linking Miyagi and Yamagata. Beyond the winding road spread mountainsides that change their look with the seasons. The fresh green and autumn color periods are especially beautiful, tempting you to stop at the lookouts along the way.

11:30 Okama Crater Lake Reach Okama, the crater lake that is the highlight of Zao. The water held in the mortar shaped crater shines emerald green depending on the light. The color of this mysterious lake shifts with the weather, and its contrast with the rugged surrounding slopes is striking.

12:30 Stroll near the Zao Summit Take a light stroll near the summit of Mount Katta. From the lookout you can see Okama and, on some days, all the way to the distant Pacific. Savor the crisp air found only at high elevation.

14:00 Descend to Togatta Onsen Come down the mountain to Togatta Onsen at the foot. Soak slowly in a public bath and ease the fatigue of the walk. The plain and warm mood of the hot spring town is another charm of this place.

15:30 The Onsen Town and Kokeshi Togatta is also a home of traditional kokeshi dolls. Peek into workshops and souvenir shops to meet the simple, endearing dolls. Relaxing at a foot bath is also recommended.

Highlights

The mysterious color of Okama is the greatest highlight of all. Because it changes with the weather and the hour, the same view never appears twice. The panorama from the Zao Echo Line should not be missed either, and the whole mountain can be called a single scenic spot. Togatta Onsen at the foot is a welcome place to enjoy mountain and bath as a set.

Access and Tips

Access to Okama is convenient by car, but a seasonal route bus is also available. The Zao Echo Line is closed in winter, so if Okama is your aim, a visit from spring to autumn is the rule. The area near the summit is much cooler than the lowlands, so carrying a layer even in summer is reassuring.

A Quick Tip

Okama can become completely hidden when fog rolls in. Visiting in the morning, when clear skies are more likely, raises your chances of meeting the beautiful lake surface. Mountain weather changes easily, so plan with plenty of time to spare.