What is Zao's Okama?
Zao's Okama (Okama) is a crater lake on the Zao mountain range, located on the border between Miyagi and Yamagata prefectures. It is a mysterious lake that shines an emerald green.
The crater lake is about 325 m in diameter and 27 m deep, and because the water color changes depending on the weather and light, it is also called the "Five-Color Pond" (Goshiki-numa).
Located at an altitude above 1,600 m, Zao's Okama offers 360-degree panoramic views and is one of Miyagi Prefecture's premier scenic spots, attracting many visitors.
In particular, it’s worth visiting year-round to enjoy the fresh green of summer, autumn foliage, and winter snow scenes, among other seasonal landscapes.
There is also a well-maintained driving route around the Okama called the Zao Echo Line, making access convenient.
This article introduces in detail the attractions of Zao's Okama, how to enjoy it, and access information!
Highlights of Zao's Okama
1. A mysterious crater lake that shines emerald green
The biggest attraction of Zao's Okama is its emerald-green surface.
The crater lake's water is strongly acidic, so fish and other organisms do not live there; as a result, the lake has .
Also, the color subtly changes with sunlight and weather, showing shades of blue, green, emerald green, and turquoise blue, which is another part of its charm.
On clear days, the green appears more vivid, providing a highly photogenic scenery.
2. Observation spots with full views of the Okama
There are several observation spots around the Okama, each offering a different angle to view the crater lake.
Recommended observation points
- Katta-dake summit observation deck
- → The most popular spot to get the best views of the Okama. The view from the summit at 1,758 m is spectacular!
- End of the Zao Highline (Katta Pass)
- → The nearest observation point accessible by car. There is a parking area, making it easy to visit.
3. Enjoy seasonal landscapes
Zao's Okama shows different faces each season, so it's worth visiting any time of year.
Spring (May–June): Snowmelt and fresh green
Because of the high altitude, snow often remains even in spring, allowing you to enjoy the contrast of a .
Summer (July–August): Many clear days — the best season!
The air is clear, and the lake's emerald-green is most vivid in this season.
It's also recommended to enjoy hiking while feeling the cool highland breeze.
Autumn (September–October): A top spot for autumn leaves
The Zao mountain range is a .
The view of the foliage around the Okama combined with the distant mountains turning color is breathtaking!
Winter (November–April): Juhyo and snowy landscapes
Roads are closed in winter, so you cannot go directly, but you can .
It is also recommended to combine a visit with skiing or snowboarding.
How to enjoy Zao's Okama
1. Drive the Zao Echo Line
The most common way to reach Zao's Okama from the Miyagi side is via the "Zao Echo Line".
This road is open and is famous as a scenic drive that reaches up to 1,600 m in elevation.
There are observation points and waterfalls along the way, so the drive itself is enjoyable.
2. Enjoy hiking in Zao
There are also around the Okama, allowing you to enjoy the crater lake while walking through the great outdoors.
Recommended routes
- Katta-dake hiking course (about 30 minutes)
- → A beginner-friendly route that offers great views in a relatively short time.
- Kumano-dake trekking (about 2 hours)
- → A slightly more serious course that heads to the summit of Kumano-dake at 1,841 m.
Useful information for travelers
Access information
By train and bus
- About 40 minutes by JR Tohoku Main Line from Sendai Station to Shiroishi Station
- From Shiroishi Station, take a bus via the Zao Echo Line to the Katta Pass parking area — about 90 minutes (operates in summer only)
By car
- About 1 hour 30 minutes by car from central Sendai
- About 60 minutes by car from the Tohoku Expressway "Shiroishi IC"
- Parking: Free (about 350 spaces)
Admission & hours
- Admission: Free
- Zao Highline toll (final section): Regular car 600 JPY — fees may change, so check the official site for the latest information
- Open period: Late April to early November (closed to vehicle traffic in winter)
Wi‑Fi
- No free Wi‑Fi around the Okama (it’s recommended to prepare maps downloaded in advance)
Language support
- Tourist brochures available in English and Chinese (Miyagi Prefecture tourist information centers)
- Zao Ropeway staff can handle basic English
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Zao's Okama is .
On clear days you can take in a spectacular panorama; visiting as part of a drive or hike is recommended!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I see the Okama in winter?
A: The Zao Echo Line is closed in winter, so you cannot access the Okama directly by car, but it is .
Q: Is it worth visiting in bad weather?
A: Because the Okama is at high elevation, the weather can change quickly.
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Please enjoy the magnificent scenery of Zao's Okama!
