Gensen Yujuku Zao Plaza Hotel

7.8
Very Good
(284 reviews)

2 Zaoonsen, Yamagata, 990-2301, Japan

+81 23-694-9111

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Hotel Description

Zao Plaza Hotel

Nestled amidst the breathtaking mountains of Yamagata, the Gensen Yujuku Zao Plaza Hotel offers a tranquil retreat for guests seeking relaxation and adventure. Located at 2 Zaoonsen, Yamagata, 990-2301, Japan, this relaxed hot spring hotel is just a 7-minute walk from the renowned Yamagata Zao Onsen Ski Area and the Zao Onsen Bus Terminal, making it an ideal base for skiing enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The hotel’s architecture exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere, seamlessly blending traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern comforts. With scenic mountain views, guests are enveloped in the serene beauty of their surroundings, providing a perfect backdrop for a rejuvenating getaway.

The accommodations at Gensen Yujuku Zao Plaza Hotel are designed with comfort and relaxation in mind. Each understated room is equipped with essential amenities, including TVs, minifridges, and tea and coffeemakers. Most rooms feature traditional tatami mats and futons, enhancing the authentic Japanese experience. Some rooms come with en suite toilets and shared bathrooms, while others boast full en suite facilities. Guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property, ensuring they stay connected during their stay.

A highlight of the hotel is its exceptional amenities, catering to the diverse needs of its guests. Start your day with a hearty breakfast before exploring the surrounding area. The hotel also offers convenient parking and a shuttle service to the bus station, ensuring easy access for all travelers. The communal bathhouse is a standout feature, with both indoor and open-air hot spring pools where guests can unwind after a long day of skiing or hiking. For dining, the casual restaurant offers delightful evening meals accompanied by stunning views, making each dining experience truly special. Ski and snowboarding gear rentals are available on-site, allowing guests to easily enjoy the winter sports that the region is famous for.

When it comes to transportation and accessibility, the hotel is well-connected to various public transport options. The nearest bus terminal is just a short walk away, making it easy to explore local attractions. For those arriving by air, Yamagata Airport is approximately 47 minutes away by taxi, while Sendai Airport is about 1 hour and 23 minutes away. Additionally, Shonai Airport is around 1 hour and 53 minutes by taxi. The hotel’s proximity to these transportation hubs ensures a hassle-free journey for guests.

The Gensen Yujuku Zao Plaza Hotel is committed to the health and safety of its guests, implementing rigorous health measures throughout the property. This includes enhanced cleaning protocols and health checks, providing peace of mind during your stay. The hotel takes pride in its friendly and attentive service, ensuring that each guest feels welcomed and cared for throughout their visit.

For those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture, the hotel is conveniently located near several popular activities and experiences. Guests can explore the nearby Zao Onsen, just an 8-minute walk away, or venture to the Zao Onsen Ski Resort, which features ski slopes for all skill levels and a cable car offering stunning views. Other notable attractions include Mount Zaō, known for its unique crater lake and “snow monster” trees in winter, and the scenic Zao Ropeway, which provides access to breathtaking views and a mountaintop restaurant.

Food enthusiasts will find plenty of dining options nearby. The area boasts a variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to more formal dining experiences. Whether you’re craving traditional Japanese cuisine or international flavors, the local dining scene is sure to satisfy. Each restaurant offers a unique culinary experience, showcasing the rich flavors of the region.

In conclusion, the Gensen Yujuku Zao Plaza Hotel invites you to experience a unique blend of comfort, adventure, and natural beauty. With its prime location, exceptional amenities, and commitment to guest satisfaction, this hotel is the perfect choice for those looking to explore the wonders of Yamagata. Whether you’re here to ski, soak in the hot springs, or simply relax in the mountains, a warm welcome awaits you at Gensen Yujuku Zao Plaza Hotel.

The Most Outstanding Trait

1. Walking distance to the Zaō Onsen and the Yamagata Zao Onsen Ski Resort

2. Guests liked the service provided by the staff

3. Highly praised restaurant with local cuisine

4. Guests enjoyed the delicious breakfast options

5. Communal bathhouse with indoor and outdoor hot springs


9.4 Exceptional

Location rating

Top sights

Zao Onsen
8 min
Zao Onsen Ski Resort
11 min
Mount Zaō
40 min
Zao Ropeway Zao Sanroku Station
15 min
Okama
44 min
See more Interesting locations

Good to know

Check-in15:00
Check-out10:00
Location rating9.4
Nearest airportYamagata Airport
Travel time to airport47 min

Nightly price (Only for reference price for sample day)

Check-in: Sun, Nov 17
Check-out: Mon, Nov 18
    Vio.com

    $127

    JAPANiCAN.com

    $176

    Trip.com

    $193

    Agoda

    $220


Location

2 Zaoonsen, Yamagata, 990-2301, Japan

Airports:

Shonai Airport

Taxi: 1 hr 53 min

Transit: 4 hr 22 min

Sendai Airport

Taxi: 1 hr 23 min

Transit: 2 hr 44 min

Yamagata Airport

Taxi: 47 min

Transit: 1 hr 37 min

Transit:

Central Ropeway Zen Bus Stop

Walking: 10 min

Zao Ropeway Zen Bus Stop

Walking: 15 min

蔵王温泉バスターミナル(バス)

Walking: 7 min


Nearby locations

9.4

Exceptional Location

Surrounded by mountains, this relaxed hot spring hotel is a 7-minute walk from the Yamagata Zao Onsen Ski Area and the Zao Onsen Bus Terminal.

Top Attractions


Amenities and Facilities

Activities

Banquet hall

Pets

No pets

Services

Front desk

Elevator

Wake up calls

Gift shop

Housekeeping

Turndown service

Parking & transportation

Parking

Transfer

Public bath

Public bath

Natural onsen

Open air bath

Languages spoken

Japanese

Accessibility

Wheelchair rental

Food & drink

Restaurant

Breakfast

Bathrooms

Private bathroom in some rooms

Bathtub in some rooms

Shower in some rooms

Wellness

No fitness center

No spa

Internet

Wi-Fi

Pools

No pools

Rooms

No air conditioning


Reviews

100% reviews from partners and customers booking on Dinogo

7.9

95 reviews

Wonderful
28
Excellent
46
Good
13
Below Average
4
Not Good
4
Cover Image for Jun Kanazawa

Jun Kanazawa

4/5
The breakfast had a lot of items, but it was just the right amount for my small eater.

Cover Image for 朱雀

朱雀

5/5
I was satisfied with everything about the bath, food, and room.The staff greeted me very well and I would like to use them again.

Cover Image for 4A END

4A END

4/5
I stopped by to receive a Gosen seal. There were also two types of acrylic keychains, so I was given them. The altar is magnificent with offerings from all over the world.So, after reading the previous review, I decided to stay overnight. Scaffolding is currently being erected due to partial renovations, and the scenery has deteriorated a little, but the quality of the hot springs is good, with a faint sulfur smell, and the hot springs are cloudy due to the amount of water that is on the transparent side. You can take a relatively long bath without getting too hot. However, because it is probably highly acidic, you may experience an irritation similar to when you touch an acidic cleaner, or in other words, it may feel similar to itching. If you have sensitive skin, use it in moderation.Meals are well-balanced with plenty of local cuisine. As for the white rice, it's self-serve style, so please serve it according to your appetite. We also have local sake and original Japanese sake, so we recommend it for those who can drink.At this time of year, there are bell beetles right next to the entrance, and their chirps make a nice sound.The only cooling equipment is the highland wind and a fan, and some spot coolers, but it's cool enough for Yamagata. However, I think there are a lot of insects, but there are no insecticides, so it is recommended that you do not open the screen door.Onsen Musume, Zao Tomoe-chan's goods are sold in two types: Akki, Aksuta, and Gosen seal (seasonally limited), and birthday events are also mainly held here, so we are putting more effort into this than other tourist associations in each region. It seems so.

Cover Image for 近藤ルリ子

近藤ルリ子

3/5
I was thinking of writing about the food, but I think this will vary depending on the cost of the trip.By the way, I went on a tour, but I didn't think it was good. I also felt discouraged from traveling.The room was a Japanese style room with only a fan.The hot spring town itself is not lively in the summer, and the same goes for the hotel employees.However, the hot springs have good water, so I recommend them.

Cover Image for SABURO HAYAMA

SABURO HAYAMA

2/5
When I visited for a day trip to the bathhouse, the inn was lacking in energy. There was no greeting from the employees. There was no smile at the front desk. Even though it wasn't crowded, they told me to take a bath for only 30 minutes. Zao is from a long time ago. It was full of skiers. Even if the service was a little bad, customers still came. I guess there are managers who still dream of that. Why can't they just say, "Please take your time?" Even if day-trippers don't become overnight guests. Are you thinking? On the contrary, it was an inn that I didn't want to stay at after taking a day trip to the bathhouse.Although the hot water was first-class, the temperature control of the bathtub was poor.An inn that forgets the basics of customer business.

Cover Image for 皆川秀樹(茨城県民)

皆川秀樹(茨城県民)

3/5
The hot water ♨️ was cloudy and had the feel of a hot spring. The food and rooms are decent. Breakfast looks like it was made the day before...

Cover Image for Hiroki Sato

Hiroki Sato

3/5
There is no air conditioner in the room, so it's hot in the middle of summer, the food was better than I expected, the hot springs are very good, and it's close to the slopes, so it might be good for skiing.

Cover Image for 藤丸

藤丸

4/5
The hot spring water is hot because it is fed directly from the source, but it will keep your body warm even after you have finished the bath.

Cover Image for cart M

cart M

4/5
It's cheap for a weekend stay, the food is very satisfying, and Zao's hot springs have hot springs flowing 24 hours a day.

Cover Image for 浩和

浩和

4/5
As everyone's reviews say, the facility is not new, but it has been renovated so it doesn't feel very old, but some of the tatami mats were warped and there were some steps. This is an inn that was often used by groups of guests in the late Showa era. There is no guidance from the front desk to the guest room. When I entered the room, the futon was folded in half. It's better than having to be guided around in a strange way or having someone enter your room when you're not there. It would be different if it was an expensive inn, but I'm satisfied with this.I asked the front desk to take me to the Zao large open-air bath for free.There were 6.7 additional dishes added to what was initially served. Many of the foods were easy to eat and suited the tastes of the common people, so they were all eaten without leaving anything behind. I prepared my own meal. Speaking of greed, when I wanted to eat rice before dessert, I ran out of side dishes, so I would appreciate it if they would add something to accompany the rice, but the rice was delicious, so I didn't have any side dishes to go with the soup and meat. I could eat it with just rock salt.All the staff were very responsive, and the Nepali staff were also very attentive and made me feel comfortable.The large public bath had a Japanese atmosphere and was reserved for private use, so I was able to take a pleasant bath.The open-air bath was a little warmer than the large public bath.There are many reviews saying that the open-air bath does not have a washing area, which is inconvenient, but this cannot be helped as the Ministry of Health and Welfare has announced that washing areas cannot be set up outdoors. The open-air bath at Plaza Hotel is like a semi-open-air bath, but when I entered the building, I was properly informed that there was no washing area.This is just my personal opinion, but I think it's a good inn for groups.