Zao – A Sacred Mountain Steeped in Ancient Spirituality
For centuries, Mount Zao has been revered as a sacred site of mountain worship in Japan.
Yamabushi (mountain ascetic monks) once journeyed from the foot of the mountain to its summit, seeking enlightenment through prayer and meditation in this hallowed land.
At the peak lies Okama a mysterious crater lake formed over 800 years ago.
It is said that the Yamabushi would gaze upon the rising sun from beyond the Pacific Ocean and reflect deeply as its light touched the waters of Okama, embracing the spiritual stillness of the moment.
This special guided tour offers you the chance to trace the path of the ancient ascetics.
Led by a local expert from the Zao Kodō Association, you’ll explore sacred sites tied to the region’s spiritual traditions and witness the breathtaking sunrise over Okama Crater.
Dressed in traditional white robes and carrying a Kongō-zue (pilgrim's staff), you’ll walk in the footsteps of the Yamabushi on a journey to encounter the divine.
Let the mystical light of dawn guide your steps.
Point ツアーのポイント
Join this special bus tour from the Togatta Onsen village, guided by members of the Zao Kodō Association.
After a relaxing evening in the hot spring town of Togatta, we invite you to
enjoy your night to the fullest savor the local cuisine, soak in the onsen,
and unwind at your own pace.
The next morning, simply arrive at the meeting point, and let your journey
begin.
The Zao Kodō Association guide will lead you in a traditional blessing
ceremony at Kattamine Shrine’s Satomiya (lower shrine), followed
by a guided journey up to the mystical Okama Crater.
Pre-Dawn Blessing Ceremony by the Chief Priest of Katta Shrine
Before the sun rises and while the night sky still reigns, a solemn ritual
is held at Kattamine Shrine.
In the stillness of early dawn, the main hall glows softly with sacred
light.
There, the chief priest guardian of both the Okumiya (inner shrine) and
Satomiya (lower shrine) offers a heartfelt blessing for your safe journey
ahead.
Sunrise Over Okama Crater
From beyond the rugged landscape of Mt. Zao, the divine morning sun rises from the Pacific Ocean. Take a moment to experience this truly sacred scene.
About ツアーの流れ
Sunrise Guided Tour at Okama Crater – Miyagi Zao
- Estimated Duration
- 3 Hours
- Meeting Point
- In front of Kami-no-Yu public bath, Togatta Onsen
- Meeting Time
- August: 3:10 AM September: 3:30 AM October: 3:40 AM
- Tour Fee
- 8,500 yen (tax included) Same price for adults and children
- Tour Itinerary
-
This tour is designed to witness the sunrise from Okama Crater. The meeting time varies by date, based on the expected sunrise time at Okama.
The schedule below is for August. In September, meeting times are 20 minutes later, and in October, 30 minutes later.
3:15 AM – 3:45 AM
Shinto Blessing and Talk on Zao’s Mountain Worship
Blessing ceremony by the chief priest at Kattamine Shrine (Satomiya), followed by a short talk on the spiritual history of Mt. Zao.3:50 AM – 4:40 AM
Taxi Ride to Okama Crater
Depart from Kami-no-Yu (Togatta Onsen) by taxi via the Zao Echo Line.4:40 AM – 5:20 AM
Sunrise Viewing at Okama Crater
Enjoy the mystical sunrise and free time for exploration around the crater.5:20 AM – 5:30 AM
Taxi Transfer to Komakusadaira
5:30 AM – 5:50 AM
Visit Komakusadaira Lookout (Free time + restroom break)
Take in panoramic views and enjoy a short rest.5:50 AM – 6:20 AM
Return to Togatta Onsen
Taxi ride back to the hot spring village.
※For tour conditions, how to book, and other details, please see the bottom of this page.
Shinto Blessing by the Chief Priest of Kattamine Shrine (Satomiya) and a Talk on Sacred Practices of the Zao Mountains
Originally founded in 679 AD near the summit of Mt. Zao on Mt. Katta (then
called Mt. Fubo), Kattamine Shrine’s lower sanctuary, or
Satomiya, continues to honor centuries of spiritual tradition.
The name “Zao” is believed to originate from Zao Gongen, a sacred
deity once enshrined there.
In the stillness before dawn, you will receive a traditional Shinto blessing
from the chief priest, whose family has protected the shrine for
generations. Following the ceremony, you’ll hear the story of Zao’s deeply
rooted mountain faith passed down through time and closely tied to the
sacred landscape.
Board a taxi in front of Kami-no-Yu and travel to Okama Crater via the scenic Zao Echo Line.
Watch the sunrise around Okama Crater and enjoy free time to explore the area.
※It takes about 5 minutes on foot from the drop-off point to the Okama Crater viewpoint.
Witness the fleeting moment when the sunrise meets Okama. A breathtaking view found nowhere else in Japan a sight so stunning, it will steal your heart.
Okama Crater is the highlight of any visit to Zao, attracting travelers from
around the world during the spring to autumn season.
Visitors come not only to admire the dramatic volcanic landscape and the
emerald-green waters of the crater lake, but also to marvel at the
star-filled night sky and, most notably, the breathtaking sunrise a rare
sight that lasts only a fleeting moment.
This magical moment occurs while the world is still asleep, making it all
the more precious for those who are fortunate enough to witness it.
From the Okama viewing platform, it's just a five-minute walk to pay a visit
to Kattamine Shrine (Okumiya), nestled at the summit.
Please Note:
・Weather conditions in the mountains can change rapidly. There is a possibility that Okama Crater and the sunrise may not be visible.
・The elevation difference between Togatta Onsen and the Okama viewing
platform is approximately 1,400 meters, with a potential temperature
difference of over 10°C.
Please dress warmly.
・Togatta Onsen: Approx. 330 m elevation
・Okama Viewing Platform: Approx. 1,750 m elevation
Board a taxi and head to Komakusadaira.
Explore Komakusadaira at your own pace.
Located at an elevation of 1,383 meters, Komakusadaira offers sweeping
panoramic views.
To the west, you can see Kaerazu Falls and Furiko
Falls, where water flows down from the Zao mountain range.
To the east, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view stretching across the Ou
Mountains all the way to the Pacific Ocean.
From mid-June to July, the area comes alive with blooming komakusa
(Dicentra peregrina), known as the “Queen of Alpine Flowers.”
Board a taxi and return to Togatta Onsen.
Information ツアー概要
- Tour Fee
- 8,500 yen (tax included) Same price for adults and children
- Departure Dates (2025)
- August 17 (Sun), August 31 (Sun)
September 14 (Sun), September 28 (Sun)
October 5 (Sun), October 12 (Sun) - Minimum Booking Requirement
- 2 people
- Minimum Tour Operation
- 4 participants
- Maximum Booking Capacity
- 8 people
- Booking Deadline
- Reservations must be made at least 8 days before the tour date.
- Tour Itinerary
-
This tour is designed to witness the sunrise from Okama Crater. The meeting time varies by date, based on the expected sunrise time at Okama.
The schedule below is for August. In September, meeting times are 20 minutes later, and in October, 30 minutes later.
3:15 AM – 3:45 AM
Shinto Blessing and Talk on Zao’s Mountain Worship
Blessing ceremony by the chief priest at Kattamine Shrine (Satomiya), followed by a short talk on the spiritual history of Mt. Zao.3:50 AM – 4:40 AM
Taxi Ride to Okama Crater
Depart from Kami-no-Yu (Togatta Onsen) by taxi via the Zao Echo Line.4:40 AM – 5:20 AM
Sunrise Viewing at Okama Crater
Enjoy the mystical sunrise and free time for exploration around the crater.5:20 AM – 5:30 AM
Taxi Transfer to Komakusadaira
5:30 AM – 5:50 AM
Visit Komakusadaira Lookout (Free time + restroom break)
Take in panoramic views and enjoy a short rest.5:50 AM – 6:20 AM
Return to Togatta Onsen
Taxi ride back to the hot spring village. - Transportation
- Jumbo Taxi (Large Shared Taxi)
- Clothing and Gear
-
Some areas have uneven or rocky paths. Please wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking.
Even in summer, early mornings near the summit can drop below 15°C (59°F), so please bring warm clothing for cold weather conditions.
- Included in the Tour Fee
-
1.White robe (traditional pilgrim garment)
2.Rental of walking staff
3.Shinto blessing fee
4.Special guiding service by the Zao Kodō Association - Cancellation Policy
-
Cancellation Timing
Cancellation Fee
Cancellation Timing & Cancellation Fee
21 days or more before the tour date
No charge
20 to 8 days before the tour date
(10 to 8 days for day tours)20% of the tour fee
7 to 2 days before the tour date
30% of the tour fee
1 day before the tour date
40% of the tour fee
On the day of the tour (before departure)
50% of the tour fee
After the tour starts or no-show without notice
100% of the tour fee
- Tour Organizer
-
JSK
Registered Travel Agency: Miyagi Prefecture
Governor License No. 2-387
Member of the All Japan Association of Travel Agents (ANTA)
Certified Domestic Travel Supervisor: Hiroe KajiwaraAddress:
36 Nishiharada, Miyaza, Zao Town, Katta District,
Miyagi 989-0701, Japan - Transportation Provider
-
Transportation Provider
Zao Kanko Taxi - Contact Information
-
JSK
Phone: +81-224-35-3323 -
Terms & Policies
(in Japanese only)
Before Booking – Please Read Carefully
- If the number of bookings does not meet the minimum requirement, the tour may be canceled. In that case, you will be notified by email no later than 8 days before the tour date.
- This tour does not include a tour conductor. Instead, a guide from the Zao Kodō Association will accompany and lead the group.
- Even in midsummer, temperatures near the summit can drop to around 15°C (59°F). Please bring warm clothing.
- The paths near the summit are uneven. Please wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes and watch your step during the walk.
- Depending on weather conditions, it may not be possible to view the sunrise or Okama Crater. In such cases, no refunds will be issued.
In Case of Pre-Cancellation Due to Weather Forecast
There is a chance that the sunrise may not be visible due to weather. If heavy rain is forecast, the tour may be canceled in advance based on the following conditions:
[Advance Cancellation Criteria]
- According to the Weathernews forecast, if rainfall at 3:00 AM on the tour day is expected to exceed 3 mm/hour in the Nakacho area of Togatta Onsen (as of 2:00 PM on the day before), the tour will be canceled in advance.
- In such cases, participants will be notified by email by 3:00 PM the day before the tour.
- Please understand that even if the tour proceeds, weather conditions may still prevent viewing of Okama Crater or the sunrise.
- If the tour is canceled in advance, a refund will be issued after deducting •cancellation fees as specified in the travel terms and conditions.
- If you cancel for personal reasons, standard cancellation fees will apply as outlined in the policy.
- If the tour is canceled on our side due to adverse weather, you will receive a full refund.
※ AI-assisted English translation.
If you agree to the above terms, please proceed with your reservation using the banner below.
Reservation