📷 Photography guide
Head from the Zao Echo Line up to the summit of Kariyadata-dake and stand at the crater rim for a full panoramic view of Okama. The emerald-green surface glows most beautifully in the soft, angled light of the morning, so an early visit is highly recommended. On clear days in summer or autumn when the air is crisp, the contrast between the vivid lake and the stark volcanic rock is especially striking. Use a wide-angle lens (equivalent to 16–24 mm) and include the rugged crater rim in the foreground to convey both the dramatic scale and immersive atmosphere. In autumn, the hillside foliage adds a rich splash of color to the scene. Keep an eye on shifting clouds — catching a shaft of light breaking across the surface is the perfect way to capture the ever-changing mystery of Goshiki-numa.
🚆 How to get here
📍 Tokyo (Tokyo Station)
1. Take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen (Yamabiko / Nasuno) from Tokyo Station to Shiroishi-Zaō Station (~1 hr 50 min). 2. Take a taxi or rental car from Shiroishi-Zaō Station toward Zaō Echo Line (Route 12). 3. Drive approx. 50–60 min via the Zaō Echo Line (蔵王エコーライン) up to the Okama Crater viewpoint. ⚠️ Zaō Echo Line is closed from approx. late November to late April. Confirm opening dates before travel.
🎫 JR East Pass (Tohoku area) — covers the Shinkansen leg
📍 Sendai (Regional Hub)
1. From Sendai Station, take the JR Tohoku Main Line to Shiroishi Station (~35 min, ¥590). 2. From Shiroishi Station, take a taxi or rental car to the Zaō Echo Line entrance at Tōge (蔵王刈田山頂 / Karida Summit). 3. Drive approx. 45–55 min via the Zaō Echo Line to the Okama Crater parking area. 🚌 Alternative (seasonal): Miyagi Kōtsu runs a limited sightseeing bus from Sendai Station to Zaō (Okama) during peak season (late April–early November). Check the latest schedule at Sendai Station.
📍 Sendai Airport (仙台空港)
1. Take the Sendai Airport Access Line from Sendai Airport to Sendai Station (~25 min, ¥660). 2. Transfer to the JR Tohoku Main Line toward Fukushima and alight at Shiroishi Station (~35 min, ¥590). 3. From Shiroishi Station, rent a car or take a taxi and drive approx. 45–55 min via the Zaō Echo Line to Okama Crater. ⚠️ Echo Line is open approx. late April – early November only.
📍 Okama Crater Parking Area (Last Mile)
1. Drive the Zaō Echo Line to the Karida Summit parking area (蔵王刈田山頂駐車場) — this is the closest car access point. 2. From the parking area, walk approx. 10–15 min along the paved path to the Okama Crater (お釜) observation deck. 🚡 Alternatively, take the Zaō Ropeway from Zaō Onsen (山形側) to Jizōzan Station, then walk ~30 min to Okama (approaching from the Yamagata side). ⚠️ The Echo Line is closed in winter (approx. late Nov – late Apr). Plan your visit between late April and early November.
* Times and fares are approximate. Please confirm the latest schedules and prices.
Overview
A crater lake nestled in the Zao mountain range, known for its striking emerald-green waters that shift in hue depending on the angle of sunlight — earning it the nickname "Goshiki-numa" (Five-Color Lake). Set against a rugged volcanic landscape, the view is nothing short of breathtaking.
History & Culture
This circular crater lake was formed by volcanic eruptions, measuring approximately 325 m in diameter and 27 m in depth. Its highly acidic waters prevent any living organisms from inhabiting it. The lake is accessible via the Zao Echo Line and Zao Highland Road (Highline).
Access
Approximately 60 minutes by car from Shiroishi IC on the Tohoku Expressway via the Zao Echo Line (closed in winter). The road is typically open from late April to early November.