Okama Crater (Mount Zao)
御釜（蔵王）
Mount Zao is an active volcano on the border of Miyagi and Yamagata prefectures. Near its summit lies Okama, a round crater lake whose name comes from its shape, like a cooking pot. It is a popular place for people who enjoy nature and mountain views. Some old trails here were once used by mountain monks for their training.
Visitor information
- Opening hours
The mountain is always open; the road to Okama (Zao High Line) is open 7:30–17:00 from late April to early November.
- Closed
The roads to the crater are closed in winter because of heavy snow.
- Admission
Entry is free, but the Zao High Line is a toll road; a regular car pays 550 yen.
- Getting there
From Shiroishi Station, take the Zao High Line bus to Zao Togatta Sancho (about 90 minutes). It runs on weekends and holidays, late April to early November.
Hours and fees can change. Please check the official website before you go.
Good to know
- There is only one bus a day in each direction, so check the schedule before you go.
Tips for Muslim visitors
- The roads to Okama (Zao Echo Line and Zao High Line) are closed in winter; the High Line is open 7:30–17:00 from late April to early November.
- The crater is a short walk from the parking lot. Check weather warnings before going, as access is sometimes restricted due to volcanic activity.
- Natural sites may have few facilities. Bring water, a travel prayer mat and a qibla app, and check the weather; mountains and lakes can be much colder than the city.
- Restrooms for wudu can be far apart on trails. Many Muslim travellers carry a small water bottle for wudu.
- Plan your visit around prayer times. Below are today's prayer times for Miyagi and the verified places to pray nearby.
- Food stalls and shops near popular sights usually do not have halal certification. Check the ingredients, or choose from the verified places on this site.
Prayer times in Miyagi
Today (5 Nov 2026)
- Fajr04:26
- Sunrise06:06
- Dhuhr11:22
- Asr14:11
- Maghrib16:33
- Isha18:03
Times are calculated for Sendai. Times may differ elsewhere in Miyagi.
Places to pray near Okama Crater (Mount Zao)
We have not verified a place to pray near here yet. Many large stations, airports and department stores in Japan have prayer rooms.
Halal food near Okama Crater (Mount Zao)
We have not verified a halal restaurant near here yet. Until then, these guides can help you choose food safely:
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Map
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Photo: OKJaguar, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sources (Checked 5 Nov 2026): visitmiyagi.com, japan.travel