2023/12/14 / Last updated : 2023/12/14 東京支店 blog

WINTER DESTINATIONS IN JAPAN

1. The Zao Snow Monster is a natural winter wonder in Japan, located in the Zao mountain range. It’s famous for the Juhyo or “snow monsters,” a unique phenomenon where trees get covered in heavy snow and ice, transforming into eerie yet stunning figures resembling monsters or ghostly formations.

This spectacular sight usually occurs from late January to early March when the combination of heavy snowfall and strong winds shapes the trees into these fantastical creatures. Visitors can take ropeways or hike up to view these remarkable snow monsters up close, often illuminated at night for an even more magical experience.

2. Shirakawa-go, nestled in the Japanese Alps, transforms into a picturesque winter wonderland when snow blankets the historic village. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famed for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, with steep thatched roofs that resemble hands in prayer.

During winter, Shirakawa-go becomes a serene and enchanting destination. Heavy snowfall drapes the gassho-style houses, creating a scene straight out of a fairytale. The roofs carry immense layers of snow, presenting a mesmerizing sight that attracts visitors seeking the quintessential winter charm of Japan.

3. Nagano Prefecture’s Jigokudani Monkey Park offers a unique and heartwarming experience, blending the allure of onsens (hot springs) with the playful antics of Japanese macaques, often referred to as “snow monkeys.”

Locates in the mountainous landscapes, this onsen sanctuary provides a surreal setting where these wild monkeys find warmth and respite during the harsh winter months. The snow-laden backdrop creates a serene ambiance as the monkeys gracefully bathe and frolic in the natural hot springs, seemingly unfazed by human onlookers.