The area near the cable car station at the bottom of the ski resort is marked as a beginner green run on the map, but it's actually pretty steep—feels more like an intermediate course. It's a bit confusing.
Yamagata Zao Onsen Ski Resort | Review by Shirley Lo
Other Reviews by Shirley Lo
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Hachi & Hachikita Highlands Ski Resort
Hachi Highlands Ski Resort features 11 courses, and its vast slopes-along with the snow park “The Parks”-have made it a mecca for snowboarders and freestyle skiers. The open Central Slope area offers three main runs: the wide and gentle Central Quad Course, the Central Pair Course with one of the largest snow park areas in the Kansai region, and the Central Triple Course, which is ideal for enjoying smooth turns. For beginners, there is a moving walkway lift, as well as a popular kids’ park with a rest area.
These two ski resorts are connected, so the whole area is really big.
You basically can’t finish all the runs in one day.
But because of that, you end up having to move around quite a lot.
If you’re a beginner and not familiar with the routes, it can get a bit tiring and it’s pretty easy to lose your way. -
Yubara Onsen
Along the river, rows of ryokan line the banks, and steam rises in the stillness of the surrounding mountains. Yubara Onsen is a hot spring town that spreads along the clear Asahi River, where you can enjoy smooth, alkaline hot spring waters.
The most famous spot here is the Sunayu bath by the river.
It's a mixed open‑air bath, totally free and really rustic.
The first time you see it, you might feel a bit shy, but honestly everyone is just soaking naturally and minding their own business.
The water is on the hotter side. It feels amazing in winter, but in summer you really need to be mentally prepared.
If you prefer something more low‑key, the hot springs at the nearby ryokan are more comfortable. -
Onigajo
A scenic spot designated as a National Natural Monument and also registered as a World Heritage Site. Massive rock walls, shaped by natural phenomena over tens of thousands of years including seismic uplift, weathering, and wave erosion, stretch for Approx. 1.2 km, and their overwhelming scale is sure to impress everyone. A promenade has been developed along the rock walls, allowing visitors to admire the scattered caves and unusual rock formations up close.
The long row of massive rock walls is super impressive. You really can’t help looking up the whole time.
Walking along the path with the ocean on one side and the rocks right beside you feels amazing. On a nice day, the scenery is beautiful, and the photos come out really striking.
The route isn’t too difficult, but it can get pretty windy in some spots, so be careful while walking.
Overall, it doesn’t feel overly touristy and has more of a raw, natural vibe. If you like nature and unusual rock formations, it’s definitely worth visiting.