Zao's Snow Monsters Await!
The Snow Monsters, known as juhyo in Japanese, have arrived in Zao! These mysterious formations are a rare sight, found only in a few select locations in Japan. Zao Onsen, in Yamagata Prefecture, is one of the best places to witness this incredible natural phenomenon. Unlike in typical years, the Snow Monsters have already appeared.
What are Snow Monsters and how are they formed?
Their imposing figures resemble monstrous creatures, hence the name, but there’s much more to these icy wonders than meets the eye. Several specific conditions must align for Snow Monsters to form. First, the trees must be Aomori fir (Abies mariesii). Second, winds of 10 to 15 mph are needed. Third, supercooled water droplets must be present in the air. Fourth, the temperature needs to be between -10 and -15 degrees Celsius. Finally, and of course, abundant snowfall is essential. It’s this unique combination of factors that creates the magical Snow Monsters of Zao.
How to Meet the Snow Monsters
From Yamagata Station, take the “Yamagata – Zao Line” bus (approximately a 40-minute ride). Buses depart from bus stop No. 1 approximately once per hour. Get off at the Zao Onsen bus stop. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Zao Sanroku Station of the Zao Ropeway. Enjoy a breathtaking 7-minute ride up the mountain to the Juhyo-Kogen Station. Transfer to another ropeway for a final 10-minute ascent to the Zao Sancho Station, where you’ll be greeted by a stunning panorama of Snow Monsters.
Bus timetable: https://travel.yamakobus.jp/en/timetable/routebus-yamagata-zaoline.html
Ropeway Information: https://zaoropeway.co.jp/summer/en.php
When can you see the Snow Monsters?
Each year the formation of the Snow Monsters depends on meeting the conditions listed above and early snowfall. With snow starting from November 30th this year, and remaining cold into December, the Snow Monsters were created earlier than usual. On average, they start to form towards the end of December, with the best viewing and largest formations coming in January and early February.
Special Snow Monster Experiences
If you’ve already seen the Snow Monsters, or want an even more unique experience, Zao Onsen has something for you. From the end of December through early February (can vary depending on the conditions), the ropeway offers Snow Monster nighttime illuminations from 5-9pm, Friday through Sunday and holidays. With the Snow Monsters lit up in various colored lights, they take on an even more alienesque existence. It’s truly a sight to behold and feels like you’ve been transported to another world.
For the more adventurous, you can even book a snowcat night ride and walk amongst the Snow Monsters between Sancho Station and Jyuhyou Kogen Station. While they might not be at the very top, the ones in this area are even larger than the Sancho area. Due to weather conditions at the top, the Snow Monsters don’t grow as large. At a slightly lower altitude, the snow piles on more thickly, creating the most massive Snow Monsters. Walk around and be amazed at their size, a breathtaking show of nature’s power. Be sure to dress warm, nighttime temperatures can drop as low as -30℃ with windchill.
Book the plan from here (The website only provides Japanese language): https://www.jtb.co.jp/leisure/i/whole/?search_keyword2=%83i%83C%83g%83N%83%8B%81%5B%83U%81%5B
For the Winter Sports Enthusiasts
While those who don’t ski or snowboard only have access to the Snow Monsters via the ropeway, those who can ride down the slopes have another opportunity to get up close to the Snow Monsters. One of the best views is by riding the Utopia Lift 2 which takes you right through some of the biggest formations on a chair lift. Once you get to the top, you can cruise right down through them. The course from Utopia 2 connects to the end of the Jyuhyougen course, which begins at Sancho station.
Snow Monster Festival
Japan never misses an opportunity to celebrate the seasons, and festivals, called matsuri, are something even the locals look forward to. During the first weekend of February, Zao Onsen hosts the Snow Monster Festival at the Uwanodai slopes. The festival includes 1,000 skiers coming down the mountain holding brilliant LED lights. There’s also a fireworks display, music, and performances. If you’re lucky enough to come to Zao during that period, it’s a must-see event.
More to Explore in Zao Onsen
Zao offers much more than just Snow Monsters. Ski or snowboard down slopes covered in some of Japan’s finest powder snow. Soothe your muscles in rejuvenating hot springs known for their beautifying skins. And don’t forget to indulge in the delicious local cuisine!
See this article for some of our recommendations. [link: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/comfacts/197/]
Learn more about Zao with our another article [link: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/comfacts/148/]. Discover the magic of Zao for yourself. Plan your unforgettable adventure today!
