“Pension Noel”, a cat inn in Zao Bodaira, Yamagata | A small inn in the forest where three rescued cats live

This article is a research guide based on official information as of 2026-08-14.This is not a local coverage article. Please do not make a reservation just for the purpose of interacting with the cat, as the official regulations clearly state that there may be cases where it is difficult to interact with the cat.

“Pension Noel” in Zao Bodaira Kogen, Kaminoyama City, Yamagata Prefecture, is an 8-room inn surrounded by an acorn forest. There are three rescued and foster cats living at guest room, but they are required to stay in the cat’s room while guests are visiting, and inn staff have advised that it is difficult to play with the cats.

There are cats, but this is not an inn that provides social interaction.

According to Official FAQ, the three animals are very wary and will be moved to their own room when guests are visiting. However, they may leave the room and appear inside the inn. Although whether cats still live at the inn, interaction with the cats is difficult, so this website classifies it as C.

If the cat comes out, if you shout loudly or chase it, it will flee. Do not reach out or chase it; leave the path clear so the cat can return on its own. Even if you have small children, it is important not to make searching for the cat a game.

Plateau pension with 8 rooms and underfloor heating

There are 8 guest rooms in total, all of which are equipped with underfloor heating in winter. This is a homely pension where you can use the guest room as a bedroom and spend time in the living room and dining room. The bath is a private family bath where you can stretch your arms and legs, and the toilet and sink are inside the inn facilities.

There is free Wi-Fi and a book/comic corner, but there are no refrigerators or microwaves. Although it is possible to eat and drink in the guest room, officials ask that you do not bring in raw foods or foods with strong odors.

Dinner and breakfast using Yamagata ingredients

Dinner is a custom-made menu that focuses on Western food, but also includes Chinese and Japanese food for consecutive nights. We offer information on Yamagata-produced ingredients, rice, and handmade jams made from fruits delivered from farmers. Dinner is approximately 6:30 pm and breakfast is approximately 8 am.

The menu is not selectable. If you have allergies, foods you cannot eat, or may be late for dinner, ask the inn before booking whether it can accommodate your needs. You can also ask about stays without meals or with breakfast.

Zao Bodaira Kogen by car

The location is Zao Bodaira Kogen, Kaminoyama City. It is approximately 30 minutes by car from Kaminoyama Onsen Station or Zao Onsen, and there is no station pick-up service. Officials recommend renting a car or taxi as this is an area where public transportation is inconvenient. Information will be provided only for transportation to and from Zao Liza Ski Resort.

The Zao Echo Line is closed in winter, so we will head from the Yamagata/Kamiyama side. Please check the snow road equipment and road information for the day. There are 8 parking spaces.

• This is not an inn where you can interact with cats.
• There is no official notice for cats to come to the guest room.
• If you are allergic to cats, please consider staying carefully.
• There is no station pick-up service.
• There is no refrigerator or microwave.

Basic information

Summary

Noel is an inn where cats live, but it is clear that cats are not subject to petting services and that the policy is to protect the cautious cats. Suitable for people who want to enjoy the combination of being able to watch their cats from a distance, the forest environment, home-cooked meals, and a family bath.

Sources

• Pension Noel official/facility information
• Official FAQ
• Jalan Current Facility Information