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Activities
Zao Snow Monster Festival 2025
Alena EckelmannThe Zao Snow Monsters rival Nagano's Snow Monkeys in popularity and they are one of Japan's winter attractions not to be missed!
Within the Mt. Zao scenic area is Zao Onsen (蔵王温泉), a popular hot spring and ski resort. Zao Onsen is especially popular during winter, where the famous "snow monsters" form on the wintery slopes of Mount Zao. Due to the Tohoku region's harsh winters and heavy snowfall, the trees atop Mt. Zao get covered with snow and resemble monstrous-looking frozen sculptures. Many make the trip to Zao Onsen especially to see the snow monsters, which is a unique event that only occurs during February when snowfall is abundant.
Other than the snow monsters, Zao Onsen resort offers several different ski slopes of varying difficulties. Visitors can also utilize the Zao Ropeway to get around, as well as enjoy the mountainside views from above. If you're visiting during winter, make sure not to miss the snow monster illuminations at night — as part of the annual Zao Snow Festival. Festivalgoers enjoy firework displays, illuminations, professional ski and snowboard shows, and many more fun activities.
The Zao Snow Monsters rival Nagano's Snow Monkeys in popularity and they are one of Japan's winter attractions not to be missed!
Zao Ski Resort, snow monsters and great onsen, all just a Shinkansen ride away
Every winter, in the well-known ski resort Zao Onsen in Yamagata Prefecture, you can witness the creation of the very rare and truly spectacular Juhyo (Ice Monsters).
Ride the Mount Zao ropeway to its peak and stand in awe at the brilliant white and magical presence of Japan's 'Snow Monsters'. But don't fear; they are just trees!!
One ski place I like a lot is Zao. Located in the north, on the border between Yamagata Prefectureand Miyagi Prefecture, it's famous for its snow monsters.
The Snow Monsters of Zao are a major wintertime tourist attraction in Yamagata Prefecture.
Even with a warm 2015 winter, the Zao "Snow Monsters" returned to the delight or skiiers and tourists.
The Zao Snow Monsters rival Nagano's Snow Monkeys in popularity and they are one of Japan's winter attractions not to be missed!
Zao Onsen is a winter sports and an onsen paradise. Zao's Snow Monsters are a top attraction.
Koyo Ryokan in Kaminoyama Onsen near Yamagata City and near the Zao mountains is ranking amongst the best ryokan in Japan. The Ogami know how to pamper guests, even those who opt for a day time onsen plan. Yonezawa wagyu and in-room onsen are the highlights.
Zao Onsen town is located in Yamagata Prefecture, and JR East Pass holders are able to get there from Tokyo station via a 2.5 hour ride on the Tsubasa shinkansen, followed by a 40 minute bus ride.
Zao Shiko Hotel. onsen and ski slopes nearby. Excellent service by English-speaking staff
Mongolian BBQ a la Genghis Khan: expect to eat a lot of lamb
Unlike most of Japan, lamb is popular in this part of Yamagata, and it is almost always eaten barbeque style.
An old cargo train carriage turned in a cafe. A lovely atmosphere and great coffee in this location in Yamagata City.
Shichiemon in the Hirashimizu pottery district is a beautiful place to get creative or do some shopping.
With winter comes the opportunity to experience a different side to life in Yamagata. Snow festivals, winter sports and onsen are just some of the things available.
Yamagata Prefecture prides itself on its distinctive four seasons and is blessed with an abundance of nature and delicious food. Here’s how to enjoy a unique part of Japan that has something to offer in any season of the year.