Zaoh Shikino Hotel

Zao Shiki no Hotel is a hot-spring ryokan about 40 minutes from JR Yamagata Station by shuttle bus. Upon entering, a lounge offers free drinks such as coffee and juice. Fresh, delicious fruit is also provided in the guestroom refrigerator. Rooms are spacious and filled with sunlight, and large windows let you enjoy views of Zao’s magnificent nature. One key attraction is the annex bath “Hanare-yu Hyaku-happo,” a must-visit for hot-spring lovers. True to its name, the bath is located about 108 steps from the inn in a separate building. It features a warm, all-wood indoor bath and a stone open-air bath with panoramic Zao views. Both are free-flowing sulfur hot springs directly from the source. Soaking here is blissful and thoroughly relieves the day’s fatigue. After enjoying the hot springs, guests can savor Yamagata specialties at dinner—especially popular are the melt-in-your-mouth marbled Yamagata beef and comforting imoni stew.