[Yamagata, Zao Onsen] 5 reasons to stay at Gokan no Yu Tsuruya
by mana358
Oct 15, 2025
~Unwind your mind and body with ultimate relaxation experienced through all five senses~
1️⃣ Enjoy the famous hot springs of Zao Onsen, boasting a history dating back 1,300 years, straight from the source.
Zao Onsen is one of Japan's leading highly acidic sulfur springs. Known for its skin-beautifying properties, it's extremely popular with women, who say it leaves their skin feeling silky smooth. At Gokan no Yu Tsuruya, you can enjoy these renowned hot springs, 100% straight from the source. The large public bath and open-air bath offer breathtaking views of the Zao mountains. At night, gaze out at the starry sky and experience a moment of complete sensory satisfaction.
2️⃣ A soothing inn for the "five senses" - see, hear, smell, taste, and touch.
As the name suggests, this inn's concept is "soothing for the five senses." The scent of wood permeates the interior, and the design allows you to experience the changing seasons of nature. The sound of a koto playing in the tranquility, the feel of being enveloped in a hot spring, the aroma and flavor of kaiseki cuisine made with an abundance of local ingredients—everything is in harmony in this space.
3️⃣ Creative Kaiseki Cuisine: Savor the Seasonal Flavors of Yamagata
Dinner, prepared by our head chef, is a creative Japanese kaiseki meal centered around Yamagata beef and Zao vegetables. With meticulous attention paid to tableware and presentation, the dishes are a feast for the eyes as well. The Yamagata beef teppanyaki and locally harvested mountain vegetable tempura are particularly exquisite. Breakfast, too, features a nutritious menu using local miso and vegetables, sure to energize you for your trip.
4️⃣ Thoughtful Hospitality
The staff's courteous and warm service has also received rave reviews. Every gesture, from the moment they see you off after checkout, is thoughtfully crafted. English-speaking staff are also available, making it a comfortable and convenient option for international travelers.
5️⃣ The perfect base for exploring Zao
Gokan no Yu Tsuruya is just a short walk from the Zao Ropeway station. Enjoy seasonal activities like skiing and viewing frost-covered trees in winter, and hiking and sightseeing at Zao Okama in summer. This is the ideal lodging for both sightseeing and relaxation.
🚆 [Access Information]
* Approximately 45 minutes by bus from JR Yamagata Station
* Approximately 5-minute walk from Zao Onsen Bus Terminal
* Approximately 30 minutes by car from Yamagata Zao Interchange (free parking available)
✨ Summary
Gokan no Yu Tsuruya in Zao Onsen is not just a place to stay; it's an experiential, healing inn that will melt away your mental fatigue. It's the perfect place for those who want to experience Japanese hot spring culture, nature, food, and hospitality with all five senses.
"Zao Onsen Inns," "Yamagata Hot Spring Inns," "Gokan no Yu Tsuruya Reviews," "Zao Hot Springs Girls' Trip," "Yamagata Free-flowing Hot Springs"
#JapanTravelGuide #Yamagata #DomesticTravel
Post by mana358 | Oct 15, 2025












