Overview
Step into the highlands of Zao and enjoy your stay at Lucent Takamiya, a ryokan perfectly placed at the heart of Zao Onsen. You’ll find the Zao Chuo Ropeway just steps from the front door, and in winter, the Nakamorigen ski slope is only a minute away. Whether you’re here for summer hikes or snowy adventures, this is the ideal place to start your journey. Inside, the changing colors of the seasons create a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere for your stay.
Accommodation
Lucent Takamiya offers three distinct wings, each with its own charm: Saison Court, The Main, and The Guest. Choose the room style that suits your travel plans—whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with your family.
Saison Court: All rooms offer panoramic views of the Zao mountains. Choose from modern Japanese rooms or maisonette-style suites that give you two floors of space and privacy.
The Main: Stay in spacious rooms with a classic modern design. Many include twin beds and Japanese-style seating areas.
The Guest: This standard wing offers a relaxed atmosphere with simple, modern design. It’s popular with families and groups who want a casual, comfortable space.
All rooms are non-smoking and come with unit baths, a TV, a toilet with bidet, a tea set, a refrigerator, Wi-Fi, and basic toiletries.
Dining
Taste the best of Yamagata with seasonal dishes that highlight local flavors. Each meal focuses on the area’s specialties—like Yamagata beef, Komenoko pork, and regional favorites such as imoni (a hearty stew) and cherry-based dishes.
Dinner: Your evening meal includes a beautifully arranged Japanese-style kaiseki dinner or a buffet with around 20 options. Depending on your plan, you might enjoy a hot pot with Yamagata beef or a shabu-shabu course with Komenoko pork. The restaurant also offers select menus where you can choose your main dish.
Breakfast: Start your day with a buffet or a Japanese set menu, depending on the day. Fill up on local rice, seasonal sides, and miso soup to fuel your Zao adventures.
Onsen and Wellness
Zao Onsen has over 1,900 years of history, and the waters at Lucent Takamiya come directly from the source. These strong acidic sulfur springs are famous for their skin-smoothing, healing properties. Locals call it the “bath of beauty.”
Soak in multiple styles of baths:
- Open-air bath (Hakagure-no-yu): Relax under the sky as you listen to the wind through the trees.
- Indoor rock bath (Komorebi-no-yu): Soak in milky waters surrounded by natural stone.
- Indoor cypress bath (Hinoki-no-yu): Cleanse in the soothing scent of cypress wood.
- Private baths: Reserve a private bath for your family or partner. Choose between a wooden indoor bath or a stone open-air bath.
Baths are open all day except during midday cleaning. A dry sauna is also available in the evening.
Guests with Tattoos
You’re welcome to use all bathing facilities, including the public onsen and private baths. No restrictions apply.
Facilities
Lucent Takamiya provides a full lineup of facilities that enhance your stay:
- Lobby and Lounge: Sit down and unwind after your journey.
- Sunset Terrace: Enjoy mountain sunsets and fresh air on this spacious terrace.
- Main Restaurant Crystal: Dine in a bright space surrounded by greenery.
- Large Banquet Hall “Unkai”: Host events with up to 120 people in a flexible space.
- Small Banquet Room “Yamazato”: Perfect for family meals or small celebrations.
- Shop “Time”: Browse local goods and gifts that represent the Zao region.
- World Café Palette: Visit the art café during select seasons to enjoy local art, drinks, and light snacks.
- Private Lounge Key Club: Use this space for meetings or group conversations. Check with the front desk for details.
- Aroma Massage Room “Effleurage”: Treat yourself to hand massage or lymphatic care in a calm setting. You can book sessions in advance or ask at the front desk if spots are open.
Activities
Zao offers year-round activities:
- Scavenger Hunt Plans: Choose from dozens of activities to make the most of your stay.
- Daily Festival for Families: Join a mini carnival inside the hotel. Try fun games like super ball scooping and ring toss. Held daily from July to September.
Additional Features
Check-in: 3:00 p.m. / Check-out: 10:00 a.m.
Total rooms: 60
Amenities include banquet rooms, sauna, public and private baths, esthetic salon, smoking room, vending machines, and ski storage
Free parking for 45 vehicles
Credit cards accepted: VISA, JCB, American Express, UC, NICOS, UFJ, MasterCard, Rakuten
Free shuttle service
Rental ski equipment and snowboards available
Daily cleaning service and morning calls
You can ship parcels and receive faxes at the front desk
Local Hot Spring Access
When you stay at any Takamiya group ryokan in Zao, you can bathe at sister facilities for free. Visit several hot springs from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (excluding Mikanso Takamiya).
Zao’s Famous Public Baths
Visit three local public baths—Kamiyu, Shimoyu, and Kawarayu—for just a small fee. Tickets are available at the front desk.
Nearby Attractions
The hotel sits at the base of the Zao Ropeway, making it easy to explore the highlands on foot or by cable car. You’ll also find gift shops, local eateries, and sightseeing spots nearby. Whether you’re heading to Yamadera or joining in the Hanagasa Festival, Lucent Takamiya makes the perfect home base.
