Mercure Miyagi Zao Resort & Spa メルキュール宮城蔵王リゾート＆スパ 宮城蔵王美居溫泉度假酒店

Mercure Miyagi Zao Resort & Spa is a highland resort hotel located in the Togatta Onsen area of Zao Town, Miyagi Prefecture, surrounded by the dramatic scenery of the Zao mountain range. The address is 1-1 Oniishihara, Togatta Onsen. It is about a one-hour drive from Sendai Station, and easily accessible from the Shiroishi or Murata exits on the Tohoku Expressway by driving toward the mountains. The location offers a pleasant “weekend getaway” feel, comfortably removed from urban bustle.

The hotel sits in a quiet natural setting of forests and open highlands, with spacious grounds that allow for relaxed walks and seasonal scenery—from wildflowers and autumn foliage to winter snowscapes. The exterior is a large-scale resort-style tower, and rooms on the upper floors offer sweeping views of the Zao mountains and surrounding forest. It is ideal for travelers seeking time in nature rather than a city-based stay.

Guest rooms come in a wide variety of types, including standard twins and doubles, Japanese-Western hybrid rooms, family rooms, and more—suitable for couples, families with children, multi-generational trips, and group stays. Many rooms are designed so that guests can enjoy views of the mountains or forest, creating an open, resort-like atmosphere. All rooms feature Wi-Fi and standard amenities, making the hotel practical for longer visits or workations.

A unique feature is the “Dog-Friendly Twin,” a room type where guests can stay with their pets. These dedicated rooms allow guests to enjoy walks and relaxation with their dogs amid Zao’s natural surroundings. Pet stays are limited strictly to these rooms, ensuring a comfortable stay for both pet owners and guests without pets.

One of the biggest highlights is the on-site hot spring, fed by the historic waters of Togatta Onsen. On the first floor, the outdoor bath “Fudo-no-Yu” features wood-deck styling with two types of tubs: a cypress bath using free-flowing spring water, and a stone bath. The indoor bath is spacious and family-friendly, and a sauna is available as well. After enjoying outdoor activities and the seasonal beauty of Zao, guests can unwind fully in the hot spring and sauna.

The restaurant primarily serves buffet-style meals featuring local ingredients and the culinary traditions of Miyagi and the Tohoku region. Breakfast and dinner are often offered in buffet format, allowing guests to sample a wide range of Japanese and Western dishes. The selection is designed so that guests can enjoy a balanced meal—an advantage for families or those wanting a well-rounded resort dining experience.

A key feature of Mercure Miyagi Zao Resort & Spa is its emphasis on an all-inclusive style. In many plans, meals (breakfast and dinner), selected drinks at the buffet restaurant and lounge, hot spring access, and certain on-site activities are included in the rate. All rooms include lounge access, where guests can enjoy sparkling wine, beer, coffee, juice, herbal water, and light snacks—perfect for a stay where you check in and simply relax within the resort. Some drinks, activities, and services may require additional fees depending on the plan.

Beyond the restaurant and lounge, the hotel offers multipurpose halls and meeting rooms for events, a children’s play area, and a shop. The natural surroundings also make it easy to pair your stay with activities such as trekking, birdwatching, skiing at nearby slopes, or local craft experiences. The official website and local tourism sites introduce seasonal activities, making it a resort guests can return to across different times of the year.

The property is well-prepared for guests arriving by car. The grounds include a large parking area with space for around 270 vehicles, and it can accommodate not only standard cars but also larger vehicles and electric vehicle charging in some cases. Since the resort is located in the mountains, many guests arrive by rental car or private vehicle, and this scale of parking is a practical advantage. (As conditions may change, checking the latest details on the official site is recommended.)

Unlike urban hotels, the resort is designed for guests to enjoy the hot spring, lounge, meals, and activities at a relaxed pace after arrival, making early check-in particularly worthwhile. It is an excellent choice for travelers who want to experience Zao’s natural environment while enjoying a stay centered around hot springs, dining, and an all-inclusive resort atmosphere.