Experience the pasture by feeding goats and sheep on the spacious meadow at Zao's cheese-making facility
About this spot
This pasture spanning approximately 100 hectares spreads across the foothills of the Zao Mountains in Kaminoyama City. Admission is free, and goats and sheep graze the gently rolling meadow where you can enjoy up-close feeding and interaction. Even shy children can start by gently offering grass across the fence, making it perfect for an animal debut. The adjacent Zao Cheese facility is known for cheese production and offers shopping for cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products. Depending on the season, hands-on experiences such as cheese-making workshops (reservations required) are available. Simply toddling across the broad grassland in the highland breeze is a grand adventure for small children. End your full day of mountaintop views with gentle memories of animal encounters.
Tips
About 20-30 minutes by car from Zao Hot Springs; free parking is available. Admission is free, and animal feed can be purchased on-site. It's convenient to have wet wipes for hand cleaning after touching the animals. The pasture has little shade, so in summer bring a hat and stay hydrated. Experience menus have limited operating dates, so confirm in advance if you're interested.
Best time to visit
Allow about 2 hours. Afternoon light as the sun begins to lower and the relaxed atmosphere before closing offers the most comfortable experience.
Access & map
〒989-0916 Kurihara District, Zao Town, Miyagi Prefecture, Engarita Hot Springs Nanokahara 201
Model course featuring this spot
Zao Ropeway and Highland Pasture: A Full Day Adventure
Yamagata
Explore features & model courses
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