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The History of Zao Onsen Jingisukan

In the 1930s (early Showa era), wool was actively produced in Zao area, however around 1945, due to a new prevalence of synthetic textiles, the demand for wool steeply declined. In order to sustain an industry facing extinction, farmers found a new source of income for their sheep with Jingisukan (or, barbecued lamb).

 

It is said that the idea of Jingisukan - the grilling of lamb meat on the uniquely shaped cast iron pan - was invented by the Chairman of the Japan Wool Manufacturer's Association at the time. He was inspired by a visit to Mongolia, where he witnessed a Mongolian BBQ method that incorporated a flat steel helmet in the cooking process.

 

The original helmet-shaped pans were produced by manufacturers in Do-machi, Yamagata city, famous for their iron casting. The pan has been modified over time, as Jingiskan has become more popular.
At around the same time in 1950, Zao Onsen area was chosen as 1st out of the best 100 mountains in Japan for sightseeing, and hence Jingisukan became the local speciality dish of Zao onsen. It also gradually became popular among tourists as well as people living in the nearby areas.

 

After Jingisukan was added to the menu for the athletes in the 1959 Zao Winter National Athletic Meet, it became a highly reputed dish, and its popularity spread nationwide.

Hitsujien
Perfect Jingisukan Set

This is our signature set menu, including fresh lamb and vegetables. Please enjoy tasty lamb with our original dipping sauce.

¥1,540

Salted Premium Lamb Tongue

This is a hard to find delicacy. Please enjoy its rich flavor and nice texture.

¥980

Prime Lamb Chuck

Please enjoy quality lamb meat that has a fine texture and perfect marbling.

¥1,430

Rack of Lamb (1pc)

Rack of lamb is celebrated in French cuisine. A perfect match with red wine.

¥960

Assorted Vegetables ¥500
Black Bean Sprouts ¥300
Onions ¥300
Potatoes ¥400
Konjac
(jelly made from the Konnyaku tuber)
¥250
Atsuage
(deep fried tofu)
¥350

House-Made Japanese Pickles ¥650
Kimchi ¥400
Chanja (spicy cod innards) ¥530
Cold Tomato ¥480
Seasoned Jellyfish ¥640
Cold Tohu (Hiyayakko) ¥300
Boiled Green Soy Beans (Edamame) ¥400

Rice With Horseradish and Soy Based Sauce ¥600
Rice Set (steamed rice, miso soup, pickles) ¥450
Steamed Rice ¥250
Large Steamed Rice ¥350

Draft Beer ¥550
Highball ¥460
Shochu ¥460
Sake ¥770
GlassWine ¥550
Cocktail ¥550
Soft Drink ¥300

HOURS & LOCATION

Name Zao Onsen Zingiscan Hitsujien
Address 1-11-6, Kasumi-cho, Yamagata-shi, Yamagata, 990-0039, Japan
Phone 023-666-5738
Hours 17:30~24:00
Last Food order 23:00
Last drink order 23:30
Closed Mondays
Seats Total 28 seats (Table 4 x 4 / Tatami room 4 x 3)
Reservations accepted
To book the entire restaurant, please contact us directly.
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© 2025. 蔵王温泉ジンギスカンひつじ苑 All Rights Reserved.

TEL:023-666-5738

  • ABOUT ZINGISCAN
  • FOOD
  • DRINK
  • HOURS & LOCATION
  • JAPANESE