End with signature cream cheese and rich soft serve ice cream; enjoy abundant souvenirs
About this spot
This facility represents Zao's dairy culture, manufacturing and selling cheese in a corner of Toogatta Hot Spring. The signature product "Zao Cream Cheese" with its smooth texture and rich, milky flavor has long been a classic Miyagi souvenir, and the direct-sale Cheese Shed displays an array of Zao's bounty—sweets using cream cheese, natural cheeses, jams, and more. The rich, creamy soft serve ice cream made from fresh milk is an indispensable finishing touch to the drive. The grounds also feature a restaurant serving cheese dishes and a rose garden, so browsing between shopping is enjoyable. If you pack a cooler box, you can buy cheese in bulk without worry and take it home—a privilege unique to road trips.
Tips
Located about 5 minutes by car from Toogatta Hot Spring town with free parking. If buying refrigerated items like cheese, bring an insulated bag or car cooler. Shop hours vary by season, so check closing times to plan your timing at other spots. From the Tohoku Expressway, it's about 25-30 minutes by car to either Murata IC or Shiroishi IC.
Best time to visit
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. Late afternoon just before heading home is efficient timing. The golden rule: buy refrigerated souvenirs last.
Access & map
〒989-0916 Miyagi Prefecture, Karita District, Zao Town, Toogatta Hot Spring Nanokahara 251-4
Model course featuring this spot
Zao Crater Lake and Toogatta Hot Spring: Breathtaking Highland Scenic Drive
Miyagi
Explore features & model courses
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