Question 1

How do I get there from Yamagata Station?

Accepted Answer

Take the Yamako bus for Zao Onsen from the east exit of JR Yamagata Station; it reaches the Zao Onsen bus terminal in about 40-50 minutes. From the terminal it is 5 minutes' walk, or we can collect you free of charge (please contact us).

Question 2

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Accepted Answer

Check-in is 15:00-24:00 and check-out is 10:00. Times may differ by plan.

Question 3

Is there a lift?

Accepted Answer

As the building is wooden there is no lift, and there are about 20 stone steps up to the entrance. If stairs are difficult for you, please contact us in advance.

Question 4

Can I stay with a pet?

Accepted Answer

The official website does not state whether pets can stay, so please contact the inn directly before booking.

Question 5

How far is it to the Zao ski area?

Accepted Answer

Zao Onsen ski area is within walking distance. Being about 5 minutes from the Zao Onsen bus terminal, the inn makes an ideal base for skiing and snowboarding.

Question 6

Can I stay with children?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can stay with children. As there is no lift and there are stone steps, we recommend contacting us in advance if you are bringing small children.

Question 7

Is there anything to watch out for in winter?

Accepted Answer

In winter, snow tyres are essential because of the snow. The Zao Echo Line is also closed from November to the end of April. On the day you arrive, contact us near the Zao Onsen bus terminal and we will direct you to the car park.

Question 8

What are the rooms like?

Accepted Answer

Every room is different in design, so each visit brings something fresh. Some rooms look out over the mountains, and there are characterful wings such as Rian Sansui. Please see the official website for details.

Question 9

When was the inn founded? Is it a historic inn?

Accepted Answer

It was founded in 1716 and, as of 2026, has more than 310 years of history, making it the oldest inn in Zao Onsen. For over 300 years it has welcomed guests with unchanging, purely Japanese hospitality.

Question 10

What hot spring facilities are there?

Accepted Answer

Water comes from our own source at 100 per cent without recirculation, feeding seven baths in the building. There are two bathing areas, Choju no Yu and Seseragi no Yu, and two private baths, four in all, available 24 hours. The strongly acidic sulphur water typical of Zao is expected to be good for the skin.

Question 11

What food is served?

Accepted Answer

We serve kaiseki courses built on seasonal ingredients and the flavours of Zao, including Yamagata beef and local vegetables, with an emphasis on local produce. Dinner and breakfast differ by plan.

Question 12

Is there parking, and is there a charge?

Accepted Answer

Parking is free. The inn stands on high ground in the hot spring town, however, so it is a 2-3 minute walk from the car park. If you are coming by car, please contact us before you arrive; staff will direct you to the car park and carry your luggage.

Question 13

What is the address?

Accepted Answer

54 Zao Onsen, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture

Question 14

Is Wi-Fi available?

Accepted Answer

Not available.

Question 15

What time is check-out?

Accepted Answer

10:00.

Question 16

What time is check-in?

Accepted Answer

15:00.

Question 17

How do I get there?

Accepted Answer

About 40-50 minutes on the Yamako bus for Zao Onsen from the east exit of Yamagata Station on the JR Yamagata Shinkansen, alighting at the Zao Onsen bus terminal, then about 5 minutes' walk. A free pick-up service from the bus terminal is available (please contact us).

Question 18

Is there parking?

Accepted Answer

Parking is available. Please contact the property for details.

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