Zao Onsen Ski Resort

What to know

Zao Onsen is a famous hot spring and ski resort nestled in the mountains of Yamagata Prefecture. It is one of the few places in Japan where you can see juhyo, or "ice trees," also known as "snow monsters." These trees take on bizarre shapes due to heavy snowfall and freezing winds.

The snow monsters form near the peak of Zao Ski Resort and are usually at their best around mid-February. A ropeway and gondola provide access for both skiers and non-skiers. On select evenings, the monsters around the summit are illuminated, offering a magical view from the slopes or from a warm seat in the cafe. Night skiing, however, is limited to the lower elevations of the resort.

Zao's ski resort is one of Japan's oldest, featuring over two dozen lifts, gondolas, and ropeways, with a variety of courses suitable for all skill levels, especially beginners and intermediates. The longest run starts among the snow monsters at the summit and stretches about ten kilometers. The ski season typically runs from early December to early May, depending on snow conditions.

How to get to and around Zao Snow Monster Illumination Hours 17:00 to 21:00 (last gondola departs the base at 19:50) The illumination takes place on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from December 27, 2025 until February 22, 2026, as well as from December 29 to January 1, on February 2, February 9 and from February 16 to 19. Admission 4400 yen (round trip) Questions? Ask in our forum .