Zao Snow Monsters: A Winter Spectacle

Experience the enchanting 'Snow Monsters' of Zao: A breathtaking winter wonderland sculpted by nature's icy hand in the mountains of Yamagata.

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Zao Onsen
蔵王の樹氷（山形県）

Witness the breathtaking Zao Snow Monsters (Juhyo), a unique natural phenomenon transforming the Zao mountains into a surreal landscape of ice-encrusted trees during winter. Ride the Zao Ropeway for panoramic views of these 'snow monsters' and enjoy the winter wonderland atop Mount Zao.

A brief summary to 蔵王の樹氷（山形県）

Zaoonsen, Yamagata, Zaoonsen, Yamagata, 990-2301, JP
+8123-694-9518
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Monday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Tuesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Wednesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Thursday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Saturday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Sunday 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

Visit in February for the best chance to see the snow monsters at their peak.
Dress warmly, as temperatures on Mount Zao can be extremely cold, especially at night.
Check the Zao Ropeway's operation status in advance, as services may be suspended due to harsh weather.
Consider booking the snowcat tour for a unique nighttime viewing experience.
Purchase the bus and ropeway combination ticket for cost savings and convenient access from Yamagata Station.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Yamagata Station, take the Yamako Bus bound for Zao Onsen Bus Terminal. The bus ride takes approximately 40 minutes and costs 1,000 yen for adults. From the Zao Onsen Bus Terminal, it's a 15-minute walk to the Zao Ropeway Sanroku Station. Purchase a round-trip ticket to Jizo Sancho Station. The round trip ropeway fare to Zao Sancho Station is 4,200 yen for adults and 2,100 yen for children.
Walking

From Zao Onsen Bus Terminal, exit and turn right. Walk for approximately 15 minutes towards the Zao Ropeway Sanroku Station. The path is well-marked. After crossing the bridge you will find the Zao Chuo Ropeway.

Discover more about 蔵王の樹氷（山形県）

The Zao Snow Monsters, known as 'Juhyo' in Japanese, are a mesmerizing winter spectacle found on Mount Zao, straddling Yamagata and Miyagi prefectures. These 'snow monsters' are trees covered in thick ice and snow, sculpted by harsh Siberian winds and heavy snowfall. This natural artwork transforms the mountain into an otherworldly landscape from late December to mid-March, with the most impressive formations typically appearing in February. The 'snow monsters' are formed as moisture-laden winds from the Sea of Japan hit the Aomori fir trees, freezing and accumulating layers of ice and snow. The result is bizarre, towering figures that resemble monsters, creating a surreal and captivating experience. Visitors can view the Juhyo during the day or during special nighttime illuminations. To reach the snow monsters, take the Zao Ropeway from Zao Onsen Ski Resort. The ropeway provides stunning panoramic views of the snow-covered landscape. At the summit, explore the area around Jizo Sancho Station and witness the snow monsters up close. For a unique experience, consider the 'Juhyo Illusion Corridor' night tour, which offers a snowcat ride through the illuminated snow monster forest.