[Winter Limited Time Offer] 2-Day Tohoku Tour of Japan | Ginzan Onsen, Zao Snowflakes, Tateyama-ji Temple (Departing from Sendai)

The best time to view the Zao Snow Monsters is typically from late January to the end of February each year. During this period, temperatures are at their lowest, snowfall is abundant, and the snow monsters are at their largest and most spectacular. You're also more likely to encounter clear weather, allowing for a clear appreciation of this unique natural wonder. The formation of snow monsters can be affected by weather conditions each year, so it's advisable to check the latest information before your trip.

Zao Snow Monsters are located at the border of Yamagata and Miyagi Prefectures in the Tohoku region of Japan. The main viewing area is within the Zao Onsen Ski Resort in Yamagata Prefecture. From Sendai, the most convenient way to get there is by bus. There are usually direct bus services to Zao Onsen, with a travel time of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. If you join a tour group, transportation will be arranged by private vehicle, saving you the hassle of transfers.

The Zao Snow Monsters area is extremely cold with strong winds. It's recommended to dress in layers like an onion: a moisture-wicking base layer, a middle insulating layer (such as fleece or down), and an outer waterproof and windproof thick jacket. Essential gear includes snow boots (with anti-slip and waterproof features), warm hats, gloves, scarves, sunglasses (to prevent snow glare), and hand warmers. Ensuring you are fully warm will allow you to comfortably enjoy the scenery.

Viewing the Zao Snow Monsters usually involves taking the ropeway. The Zao Ropeway is divided into the 'Sanroku Line' and the 'Sancho Line,' and taking the cable car is the primary way to reach the snow monster plateau and the summit viewing areas. Along the way, you can gradually witness the transformation from frost-covered trees to massive snow monsters, with expansive views of the snow-covered mountain forests. Near the summit station, the snow monsters are densely packed, creating an incredibly spectacular scene.

The Zao Ropeway is divided into two sections: the Sanroku Line (Zao Sanroku Station - Juhyo Kogen Station) and the Sancho Line (Juhyo Kogen Station - Zao Jizo Sancho Station). The Sanroku Line takes approximately 8 minutes one-way, and the Sancho Line takes approximately 10 minutes one-way. Therefore, the total one-way travel time from the Sanroku Station to the Sancho Station is about 18 minutes. You can enjoy the changing snowy scenery through the windows during the ride.

Ginzan Onsen is famous for its Taisho Roman-style wooden buildings. When the gas lamps are lit at night, the entire hot spring town takes on a nostalgic and charming atmosphere, reminiscent of scenes from 'Spirited Away.' You can stroll along the hot spring street, admire the wooden inns lining the river, enjoy foot baths, or savor local delicacies. Additionally, the hot springs themselves have therapeutic properties, making bathing a significant pleasure.

Zao Fox Village is a zoo where you can observe and feed over a hundred foxes up close. You'll see various breeds of foxes freely roaming, looking adorable and healing. During your visit, you must adhere to the park's rules, such as refraining from reaching out to touch the foxes to avoid being bitten. Feeding should only be done with the feed provided by the park, and you should avoid crouching or getting too close to the foxes to ensure your safety and the foxes' well-being.

It is generally recommended to book Zao Ropeway tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons or holidays, to save time waiting in line. You can book through online travel platforms like KKday. This not only simplifies the booking process but also allows you to plan your itinerary ahead of time, ensuring you can smoothly ride the ropeway to view the snow monsters. KKday offers convenient booking services, allowing you to easily obtain the tickets you need.