Muslim Friendly Japan
Zao Ropeway

Zao Ropeway

蔵王ロープウェイ

The Zao Ropeway runs from Zao Onsen up the slopes of Mount Zao in Yamagata City. It has two lines: the lower line climbs to Juhyo Kogen Station (1,331 m), and the upper line continues to Jizo Sancho Station (1,661 m). From the top, paths lead toward Mount Jizo and other peaks. In winter it is the main way up to see the famous snow monsters.

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Visitor information

Opening hours

In summer season (April 1 to December 10) it runs 8:30–17:00. The schedule may change.

Closed

The ropeway is closed for inspection and maintenance from November 4 to November 13, 2026.

Admission

Summer fares: to Jizo Sancho, adult round trip 4,400 yen (one way 2,200 yen); to Juhyo Kogen, adult round trip 2,200 yen. Children pay half.

Hours and fees can change. Please check the official website before you go.

Good to know

  • Small pets are allowed only in summer and only inside a hard case or cage (child fare). No pets in winter; assistance dogs ride free.
  • In winter, the ropeway at the bottom of the Yokokura Slope is the main way to reach the summit to see the snow monsters.

Tips for Muslim visitors

  • The Sanroku Line takes seven minutes up to Juhyo Kogen Station (1,331 m), where you change to the Sancho Line for Jizo Sancho Station (1,661 m).
  • Expect harsh weather at the top of the mountain and wear suitably warm clothing.
  • 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 Yamagata 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 Yamagata

Today (5 Nov 2026)

  1. Fajr04:28
  2. Sunrise06:08
  3. Dhuhr11:24
  4. Asr14:13
  5. Maghrib16:35
  6. Isha18:05

Times are calculated for Yamagata City. Times may differ elsewhere in Yamagata.

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Places to pray near Zao Ropeway

We have not verified a place to pray near here yet. Many large stations, airports and department stores in Japan have prayer rooms.

How to find a place to pray in Japan →

Halal food near Zao Ropeway

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: ZAO Ropeway, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Sources (Checked 5 Nov 2026): zaoropeway.co.jp, zao-spa.or.jp, japan.travel