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Zao Onsen, Yamagata
Zao Onsen Ohtaki Ryokan vs Zao Onsen Ryokan Kinosato
Two ryokans in Zao Onsen, Yamagata, compared side by side — price, onsen, dining, and atmosphere. Find the right fit for your trip.
Zao Onsen Ohtaki Ryokan
Yamagata, Tohoku
Price range
$$
Highly acidic sulfur spring (pH 1.2), one of Japan's strongest, milky white appearance
3-star ryokan
Key experiences
- Bathing in Zao's famous white sulfur waters in the open-air Dai-Rotenburo — Japan's largest outdoor mixed onsen
- Witnessing the juhyo snow monsters on the mountain slopes in winter
- Skiing Japan's best mid-Tohoku resort from the ryokan's doorstep
- Summer hiking to the Okama emerald crater lake above the onsen village
- Traditional tatami-room ryokan experience at Tohoku's most accessible mountain resort
A classic Zao Onsen ryokan with the region's celebrated sulfur-rich white waters and access to Japan's best ski resort snow monster scenery.
Zao Onsen Ryokan Kinosato
Yamagata, Tohoku
Price range
$$$
Strongly acidic sulfur-aluminum sulfate-chloride spring (milky white, pH 1.25-1.6)
4-star ryokan
Amenities
- Yukata robes
- Bath towels and toiletries
- Tea set
- Refrigerator
- Air conditioning and heating
Key experiences
- Bathing in milky, strongly acidic sulfur waters with pH as low as 1.25
- Viewing the famous snow monsters (juhyo) via the Zao Onsen Ski Ropeway in winter
- Enjoying seasonal kaiseki dinner prepared with Yamagata's renowned ingredients
- Experiencing exceptionally warm Tohoku hospitality — ideal for first-time onsen guests
- Skiing or snowboarding at Zao Onsen Ski Resort in winter
Which should you choose?
Choose Zao Onsen Ohtaki Ryokan if…
A classic Zao Onsen ryokan with the region's celebrated sulfur-rich white waters and access to Japan's best ski resort snow monster scenery
Choose Zao Onsen Ryokan Kinosato if…
You prefer an alternative style in Zao Onsen, Yamagata.