Station Yamagata Zaō

Discover the Heart of Yamagata’s Natural and Cultural Spirit

Yamagata Zaō roadside station rises at the foot of the legendary Zao Mountains, where alpine vistas meet vibrant local culture. Nestled along the scenic route between the snow-capped peaks of Zao and the historic charm of Yamagata City, this modern roadside station is more than a stop—it’s a celebration of regional identity. Opened in December 2023, it seamlessly blends nature, community, and innovation, earning recognition as a disaster-resilient hub and a vibrant cultural nexus.

Visitors are drawn to its unique attractions: the immersive Tree Ice Hall, where seasonal themes and Sanrio character merchandise bring winter magic to life; the communal Imoni Square, perfect for a hands-on traditional potato stew gathering; and the bustling event plaza hosting workshops, markets, and live performances. With a curated selection of local delicacies—from artisanal bûche de Noël to tree ice-inspired desserts—this is a destination where taste, tradition, and creativity converge.

Visit Yamagata Zaō roadside station to experience the only tree ice cream in Japan made from locally sourced mountain spring water and seasonal fruit purees, a unique treat found nowhere else. Explore the immersive Tree Ice Hall, where winter’s natural wonders are recreated year-round, and enjoy hands-on events like seasonal potato stew gatherings at the dedicated Imo-ni Plaza, a rare communal dining experience in the region.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM on weekdays to secure a seat at the bakery counter, where fresh milk bread and seasonal pastries like the chocolate escargot are baked daily and often sell out by 11:00 AM.

• Hidden Gems: Head to the deli counter near the entrance to find the limited-edition tree ice cream (juhyo purin), available only during the winter season and sold in small batches from mid-December to early March.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the food truck area near the event plaza between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM to sample the rotating vendors participating in the Kitchen Car Grand Prix series, with the most popular items often selling out by 1:30 PM.

• Must-Visit Corner: Stop by the information dissemination corner at the west end of the main hall to pick up free maps and seasonal event flyers, including the schedule for the annual Sanrio character-themed tree ice collection, held only from late October to early November.

• Unique Experience: Visit the tree ice hall’s play area on weekends between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM, when interactive snow-themed activities and storytelling sessions are hosted—ideal for families with children under 12.

• Local Product Tip: Purchase the highland yak meat jerky from the "Takahashi Livestock" booth before 3:00 PM, as it is restocked only once daily and frequently sells out by early afternoon.

• Off-the-Beaten-Path Spot: Walk through the southern pavilion near the outdoor thatched roof shelter in the yamaimo (sweet potato) plaza during autumn events to find the traditional yamaimo stew cooking demonstration, held every Sunday from October to November at 2:00 PM.

Spring (March–May): Late March to April features canola flower viewing near the roadside station, with fresh bamboo shoots available at local markets.

Summer (June–August): August hosts the Kitchen Car Grand Prix summer event and outdoor activities at the event plaza.

Autumn (September–November): October brings the Sanrio character tree ice exhibit and the Mokko Koke Festival, celebrating traditional crafts.

Winter (December–February): December through February offers tree ice displays and the warm, communal experience of the pot-au-feu plaza.