Hakkoda Snow Monsters

Natural "monsters" loom large in the Hakkoda Mountains

During peak snow season, the Hakkoda Mountains are guarded by “snow monsters," towering pine trees covered in soft rime ice. These monstrous natural statues watch over winter visitors to this popular mountain range. Their otherworldly shapes are formed by strong winds blowing water droplets onto trees, where they freeze and accumulate. Local guides run snow trekking tours through the forests of ice-coated trees, allowing visitors to see the famous snow monsters up close.

Mt. Tamoyachi, one of the sixteen peaks of Hakkoda, offers a panoramic view from its summit. After a 10-minute ride on the Hakkoda Ropeway, visitors can look out as far as Aomori City and the Shimokita Peninsula, the northernmost point of Japan’s main island. At the foot of Mt. Tamoyachi lies Sukayu Onsen and its famous sennin-buro, or "1,000-person hot spring." Winter visitors can relax and soak up the mountain ambiance in this mixed-gender, open-air bath after a day of skiing or trekking. Ski and snowboard enthusiasts rate the Hakkoda mountains for their pristine slopes, long ski season which lasts until early May, and the opportunity to ski among the snow monsters.

How to get there

The Hakkoda Ropeway base station is a one-hour bus ride from Aomori Station.

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