Guida
Zao Heartland is a nature-themed interaction farm located in Zao Town, Miyagi Prefecture. Operated by the Zao Dairy Center, it offers a unique opportunity to taste incredibly fresh dairy products like milk, cheese, and soft-serve ice cream right where they are produced. The facility features several areas including an animal interaction zone, a hands-on workshop facility, a cafe, and a BBQ house, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of ways to spend time surrounded by nature.
The Zao area has a long-standing tradition of dairy farming, utilizing its rich natural environment to produce high-quality dairy. Zao Heartland serves as a bridge between this local tradition and the public, providing a space where visitors can directly experience the culture of dairy farming through tasting and interaction. By offering local specialties like Zao Cheese, the farm plays a vital role in preserving and sharing the region's unique dairy culture.
The site is home to several key facilities. First, the 'Handmade Experience Center' offers workshops where you can learn to make your own cheese, butter, or ice cream. At the 'Takeout Experience Center,' you can purchase rich soft-serve ice cream and fresh milk. For a relaxing break, the cafe 'Wind Square' offers a cozy log-house atmosphere where you can enjoy house-roasted coffee. Additionally, the 'Wind Deck' BBQ House allows you to enjoy premium meats, such as Zao-produced pork (JAPANX) and Japanese beef, while breathing in the fresh highland air.
Zao Heartland is open from early April to late November. It is closed during the winter season (November to April). The best seasons to visit are from May, when the fresh greenery is beautiful, through the pleasant summer breeze, and into the autumn when the foliage is stunning. While daytime is the best time for animal interactions and workshops, the cafe and BBQ areas offer a peaceful way to experience the gentle pace of the highlands at any time.
Visitors can enjoy rare opportunities that are hard to find in daily life. The handmade experience programs include making cheese, butter, sausages, or ice cream using fresh milk. Depending on the season, there may also be opportunities to interact with animals or view miniature horses. As these programs often require advance booking, it is highly recommended to check availability in advance.
Zao Heartland is located near the Zao Echo Line and the Togari Onsen hot spring area. The surrounding region is filled with scenic driving routes and hot spring facilities, making the farm an excellent base for sightseeing. It is easily accessible from the Shiroishi IC or Murata IC, and can be reached via major roads from the Yamagata direction.
Since the site is a natural farm environment, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. For workshops and animal interactions, clothing that allows for easy movement is best. Regarding payments, please verify the accepted methods (cash or card) at the shop or cafe upon arrival. If you plan to participate in specific experience programs, please check the official website or call ahead for reservations. For accessibility, the facility provides designated parking and entrances for wheelchair users.