Nestled in the snow-capped mountains of Yamagata, the enchanting Ginzan Onsen and captivating Zao Snow Monsters await adventurous travelers. This 2-day tour from Tokyo immerses visitors in the serene beauty of traditional Japan, from the historic architecture of Ouchijuku to the rejuvenating waters of a ryokan’s hot spring baths. Ascending the scenic cable car, guests will behold the breathtaking sight of the snow-covered trees, known as the "Snow Monsters" – an otherworldly natural wonder that must be seen to be believed. With live guides, comfortable accommodations, and a chance to disconnect from the modern world, this journey promises an unforgettable exploration of Japan’s enchanting winter landscapes.
Key Points
- This 2-day tour from Tokyo explores the traditional hot spring town of Ginzan Onsen and the enchanting Zao Snow Monsters.
- The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, an overnight stay at a hot spring hotel, and live guides in Chinese, Japanese, and English.
- Highlights include the thatched-roof village of Ouchijuku, a complimentary Waraku Foot Bath in Ginzan Onsen, and panoramic views of the snow-covered landscapes from the Zao Ropeway.
- The overnight stay at the traditional ryokan Hotel Kameya offers an authentic experience with Japanese-style meals and natural hot spring baths.
- The tour is not recommended for pregnant women or unaccompanied minors, and itinerary changes may occur due to weather or road conditions.
Tour Overview
This 2-day tour from Tokyo offers visitors a chance to explore the historical and natural wonders of Ginzan Onsen and Zao Snow Monsters, providing an immersive experience in the heart of Japan’s picturesque landscapes.
Priced from $318.64 per person, the tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
With live guides available in Chinese, Japanese, and English, the experience caters to a diverse audience.
Spanning two days, the tour promises a captivating journey through traditional hot spring towns, thatched-roof villages, and a winter wonderland of snow-covered trees.
Travelers can enjoy the convenience of air-conditioned transportation and an overnight stay at a hot spring hotel.
Meeting Points
The tour begins at two convenient meeting points: JR Tokyo Station’s Marunouchi North Exit at 7:30 AM, and SMBC Bank Shinjuku Nishiguchi at 8:00 AM. This allows guests from across the city to easily join the excursion.
Once gathered, the group will depart for their first destination, Ouchijuku, one of Japan’s largest thatched roof villages renowned for its historical architecture and traditional inns.
From there, the journey continues to the picturesque hot spring town of Ginzan Onsen, which inspired the settings in Hayao Miyazaki’s acclaimed films. Guests will have the chance to explore this charming area and enjoy a complimentary Waraku Foot Bath before checking into their traditional ryokan accommodations for the night.
Visit Ouchijuku
After departing from the meeting points, the tour journeys to Ouchijuku, one of Japan’s largest thatched roof villages renowned for its historical architecture and traditional inns. Visitors stroll down the charming streets, marveling at the well-preserved Edo-style buildings that line the roads. The village exudes a nostalgic ambiance, transporting travelers back in time:
Weathered wooden structures with intricate thatched roofs stand in timeless elegance.
Shops and inns showcase traditional Japanese crafts and cuisine, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Narrow pathways meander between the buildings, inviting exploration and discovery.
Locals go about their daily lives, adding to the authentic, lived-in atmosphere.
The village’s tranquil setting provides a peaceful respite from the bustling city.
Explore Ginzan Onsen
Leaving the charming thatched-roof hamlet of Ouchijuku, the tour continues its journey to the picturesque hot spring town of Ginzan Onsen, which has inspired the works of renowned filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki.
Nestled in a snowy valley, Ginzan Onsen boasts traditional ryokans, or Japanese inns, with stunning architecture and cozy hot spring baths. Visitors can stroll along the Ginzan River, admiring the historic wooden bridges and buildings that evoke a timeless atmosphere.
The tour offers a complimentary Waraku Foot Bath, allowing guests to soak their feet and relax amidst the serene surroundings. After a day of exploration, travelers will overnight at the traditional Hotel Kameya, savoring a Japanese-style onsen dinner and breakfast.
Overnight Stay at Hotel Kameya
At the end of an eventful day exploring Ginzan Onsen’s historic charm, travelers settle into the traditional Hotel Kameya for an overnight stay. Here, they’ll savor a Japanese-style onsen dinner and wake up to a delightful breakfast.
The hotel’s rustic ryokan atmosphere offers a cozy respite, with:
- Elegant rooms featuring tatami mats and futon bedding
- Soothing natural hot spring baths for a rejuvenating soak
- Authentic multi-course kaiseki meals highlighting local ingredients
- Attentive service from the ryokan’s friendly staff
- Close proximity to Ginzan Onsen’s picturesque streets and bridges
This immersive experience allows guests to fully embrace the serene ambiance of this enchanting hot spring town.
Morning Visit to Zao Snow Monsters
Travelers are whisked away to the magical wonderland of Zao Snow Monsters via a captivating ropeway journey, where they’ll witness the breathtaking sight of juhyo, the snow-covered trees that resemble fantastical creatures.
As they ascend, the panoramic views from the cable car leave them in awe, with a 360-degree perspective of the winter landscape. They’ll stop at the Juhyo Plateau and Zao Jizo Mountain, seeing the serene beauty of the snow monsters.
Atop the mountain, they can relax at the restaurant and savor the tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by the ethereal, snow-capped scenery.
This unforgettable morning visit to Zao Snow Monsters promises an enchanting and unforgettable experience.
Experience Breathtaking Views
As the ropeway glides up the mountain, visitors are treated to a 360-degree panorama that leaves them in awe, with breathtaking vistas of the snow-blanketed landscapes unfolding before their eyes.
The cable car offers a front-row seat to the Zao Snow Monsters, towering white sculptures formed by heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. Guests can’t help but marvel at the surreal, otherworldly scene, where each tree appears to have been sculpted by nature’s icy touch.
The panoramic views from the Zao Jizo Mountain top are simply mesmerizing, with:
- Sweeping views of the snow-covered peaks
- Intricate ice formations dancing in the breeze
- A serene, peaceful atmosphere blanketing the winterscape
- Opportunities to capture stunning photographs
- An unforgettable connection with the beauty of winter.
Important Information
Certain important considerations accompany this Ginzan Onsen tour, such as its unsuitability for pregnant women or unaccompanied minors.
The itinerary may also adjust due to unfavorable weather or road conditions.
Guests should also be aware of the single room supplement fee of 18,000 JPY per person, as well as the full charge for any cancellations made within 3 days of the travel date.
For a seamless experience, it’s crucial to ensure email and mobile phone accessibility to receive important details, including the tour guide’s contact information and vehicle details, the night before the tour.
Following these guidelines will help ensure a memorable and hassle-free journey through the enchanting Ginzan Onsen and Zao Snow Monsters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour, but lunch is not included in the package. The tour focuses on exploring the scenic destinations, so feel free to pack a picnic to enjoy during the adventure.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
The tour offers discounted rates for children and seniors. Children under 12 receive a 10% discount, while seniors over 65 can enjoy a 5% reduction in the tour price. These discounts provide flexible options for families and older travelers.
How Much Luggage Can I Bring on the Tour?
Participants are allowed to bring standard-sized luggage, but it’s recommended to pack light as storage space may be limited. The tour provider suggests one medium-sized suitcase or bag per person to ensure comfortable transportation.
Is There Wifi Available on the Tour Bus and at the Hotels?
The tour does not provide Wi-Fi on the bus, but the hotels offer complimentary wireless internet access. Guests can stay connected during their overnight stay, allowing them to share their memorable experiences with friends and family.
Can I Extend My Stay at the Hotel if Needed?
Guests may extend their stay at the hotel if needed, though this would incur additional charges. The tour operator recommends communicating any requests to extend the stay directly with the hotel staff to ensure availability and pricing.
Recap
This two-day tour from Tokyo promises an enchanting escape into Japan’s winter wonderland.
Witness the serene beauty of Ginzan Onsen and the captivating ‘snow monsters‘ of Zao.
With a comfortable overnight stay, cable car ride, and knowledgeable guides, travelers can enjoy the stunning landscapes that define this unforgettable adventure.
From historical architecture to natural wonders, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into Japan’s captivating winter charm.
