【January–March】Witness the miraculous winter art of nature - the “Snow Monsters” of Zao. This exclusive snowshoe hiking tour takes you through a breathtaking, otherworldly landscape found only in Zao’s winter, guided by an experienced local expert.
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Snow Monster Hiking in Zao - Join-in Day Tour
The Highlight
Direct Access to the Snow Monster Field: Reach the Snow Monster area quickly with just two lift rides - no long waits or ropeway crowds. Enjoy a smooth journey straight into a magical snowy landscape.
Guided by Certified Experts: An experienced guide certified by the Zao Bodaira Tourism Association will accompany you, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience even for first-time snow hikers.
Free Souvenir Photos: Your guide will capture your smiles and the stunning scenery during the tour, and you’ll receive the photo data for free on the same day.
The Experience
In Zao Bodaira, the deep snow, fierce winds, and biting cold come together to create a masterpiece of nature called the “Snow Monsters.” These ice-covered trees are breathtaking works of art that no human could ever replicate. Formed slowly over many days in the harsh winter climate, each snow monster stands as a testament to nature’s power and beauty. Seeing them up close is truly awe-inspiring and attracts visitors not only from across Japan but from all over the world.
Your guide will lead you beyond the Snow Monster field itself. As you walk through the tranquil, snow-covered forest, you will discover a shimmering beech grove glowing under the winter light. This is more than just a snowshoe walk. It is a journey to understand, feel, and connect with the nature of this land, revealing the true essence of Deep Winter Zao.
【Tour Flow】
- After taking two lifts, you will arrive at the ski resort’s summit, the starting point for your snow hike. Put on your snowshoes and stroll among the Snow Monsters, step through soft, powdery snow, and walk under tunnels of frozen trees.
- Sometimes you can even slide down gentle slopes on your bottom and fully enjoy the sparkling white world around you. The course mainly goes downhill, so it requires less physical effort compared to regular mountain hiking.
【Specialized Equipment Included for Your Safety】 All necessary equipment rental fees are included in the tour price.
- Snowshoes: ATLAS Helium (lightweight, high-performance mountain snowshoes)
- Poles: Montbell Fall Line Poles (lightweight backcountry poles)
- Cushion: Outdoor seat pad to keep you warm and comfortable during the lunch break
【Insurance Coverage】 All participants are covered by accident insurance during the tour. You may consider purchasing additional coverage if necessary.
- Insurance Provider: Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd. (Event Participant Accident Insurance)
- Accidental Death / Permanent Disability: ¥10,000,000
- Hospitalization (per day): ¥5,000
- Outpatient Treatment (per day): ¥3,000
【Access】
By Public Transportation:
- You can take the free White Echo Shuttle Bus from Kaminoyama Onsen Station. After the tour, you may wait comfortably inside the rest house until the evening return bus departs.
White Echo Bus Timetable (2025 schedule; 2026 version will be updated when available): http://www.zaoliza.co.jp/wntr/43f9978d6bda04f3cd1767a66f5becd7b95899f0.pdf
You can also choose to travel by taxi from Kaminoyama Onsen Station to the meeting point.
- We offer an optional round-trip taxi from Kaminoyama Onsen Station, available for up to 4 passengers.
Guide Services
Languages Spoken by Guides
- English
- Japanese
Itinerary
- 10:00Meet at the Zao Liza World Rest House. ※ Please get ready and gather by 10:15 when the tour briefing will begin.
- 10:30After a short warm-up, take the lift and set off on your adventure! You can already enjoy the view of the Snow Monsters from the lift.
- 11:00At the lift terminal, put on your snowshoes and start exploring the Snow Monster field. Walk through a vast white landscape surrounded by these incredible natural formations.
- 12:00Lunch break in the forest. Enjoy your meal while admiring the breathtaking snow-covered scenery spread out before you.
- 14:00Return to the ski area and disband.
Price Details
Add-on Items
How to Use
- Voucher will be sent via email. Please show your e-voucher at designated location.
Purchase Notice
【Important Information】
- Participants should be able to carry a backpack and walk on their own for more than two hours.
- If you have any chronic health conditions or concerns about your physical fitness, please consult us in advance.
- Pets are not allowed.
- Our guides speak English, so English-speaking participants are very welcome.
- Recommended age: 6 years and older.
Important Booking Information
Items You Must Prepare
- Warm clothing: Winter wear such as ski jackets and pants that are both insulated and waterproof. Please prepare gear suitable for temperatures below –10°C.
- Hiking boots: High-cut, insulated, and waterproof boots are required. Winter boots or snow boots are also acceptable, but wear thick socks or double layers to prevent your feet from moving too much inside the shoes.
- Hat: One that fully covers your ears.
- Gloves: Warm, insulated gloves such as ski gloves. Cotton or wool gloves are not suitable as they absorb water and let wind through.
- Backpack: At least 20 liters is recommended. Each participant must bring their own backpack.
- Lunch: Bring enough food such as bread or instant noodles. Hot water will be provided.
- Drink: A thermos with a warm beverage. Plastic bottles may freeze in cold temperatures.
Recommended Items
- Gaiters: To prevent snow from entering your boots. (Available for rent)
- Down jacket or fleece: Useful during breaks.
- Thin gloves or cotton gloves: For use during meals.
- Hand warmers.
- Sunglasses.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellation made at least 11 day(s) before departure date, Fully refundable (100% refund)
- Cancel during 8 ~ 10 day(s) of departure, will charge 20%
- Cancel during 2 ~ 7 day(s) of departure, will charge 30%
- Cancel on 1 day(s) before departure, will charge 40%
- Cancel on activities date, Non-refundable (0% refund)