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Other Attractions |
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Zao Moutain Range |
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The Zao Mountain Range is a vast mountain park extending over both Miyagi
and Yamagata prefectures, in north-eastern Japan. The Zao Echo Line is
a pleasant, breathtaking scenic drive which links the two neighboring prefectures.
On your way up to the mountains, you can visit the Sankai and the Fudo
falls, and enjoy various alpine plants at Komakusadaira Plateau. The charming
pink dicentra is particularly beautiful.
The Crater Lake at the top of the mountain is called Okama. Its waters
are a deep and mysterious emerald green. The incredible juhyo (trees covered with snow and ice) which Zao is nationally famous for is
a must-see in the winter season, even for non skiers and snowboarders.
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Cherry Blossoms |
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Springtime in Japan is Cherry Blossom Season. In Shiroishi, Masuoka Park,
behind Shiroishi Castle, is a great place to start. The contrast between
the white walls of the castle and the pink blossoms is particularly breathtaking.
Don't miss Jorinji Temple either. The cherry blossoms around this quiet
temple ground are the first to bloom in Miyagi Prefecture.
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Enjoy Nature at the Minami Zao National Youth Campgrounds |
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If you like the great outdoors, then Minami Zao National Youth Campground is for you. Orienteering and trout fishing can be enjoyed from spring to autumn, and why not challenge yourself to cross country skiing in winter? Full camping facilities are provided, and rental camping gear is also available.
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Hekigyokukei Gorge |
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Obara spa is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, facing the deep valley
of Shiroishi River. In spring, the Hekigyoku Valley is particularly impressive
during cherry blossom season whilst in autumn, brilliant hues of autumn
leaves paint a colorful landscape to delight visitors. In winter, the contrast
between the rocks in the river and the snow is a photographer’s playground.
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Minami Zao Skunk Cabbages |
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The swamp near the Minami Zao National Youth Campgrounds is a natural habitat
for Mizu Basho (skunk cabbages). More than 10,000 flowers are in full bloom
from late April to early May.
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Zaimoku Iwa |
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The Zaimoku Iwa’s Rock Foundations, upstream on the Shiroishi River are
one of Japan’s nationally recognized natural landmarks. This natural phenomenon
is a formation of vertical quartz-andesite columns. These columns look
like a wall of wooden boards- hence the name Zaimoku, which means lumber
in Japanese. The shape is formed by what are known as pillar-shaped joints
of stones, standing at an astounding 65 meters. Below Zaimoku Iwa is the
Mizu to Ishi To No Katarai Park from where a short stroll will lead you
to an extraordinary view of Shichikashuku Dam’s rockfill wall.
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