“Hike up, walk through Snow Monsters, slide down — the local way”
Skip the ropeway—hike the trail instead. Walk through Snow Monsters, enjoy the silence, then slide down. Locals know, tourists don’t.
Togtooson Jandos
Yamagata Zao onsen , Japan
Most people think Zao is only for skiers and snowboarders. But you don't need any experience or special skills.
Hike up the trail, walk right among the Snow Monsters — massive frozen trees towering over you in complete silence. Time it right and you'll catch the sunset too, with the sky turning orange and pink above the frozen forest.
One thing you do need: snowshoes. Rent them easily at the base of the mountain — affordable and no experience required.
No backcountry skills. No ski gear. Just warm clothes, snowshoes, and a sense of wonder.
