• 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.

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.