1 hour and 30 minutes drive from the Sendai downtown, we will reach at the foot of the mountain. From there, we will hop on the gondola lift, and heading to the middle of the mountain (Juhyo Kogen Station), which will take about 7 minutes.

Approximate gondola waiting time at this station will be up to 60 minutes on weekdays.

On the gondola, you can enjoy the panoramatic view of snow-covered trees.

We will need to transfer the gondola at the middle of the mountain, Juhyo Kogen Station. From here, we will take another gondola lift to the Summit, which will take about 11 minutes.

As you ride the ropeway, you can witness a dramatic transformation of the landscape. On the Sanroku Line, the trees change from ordinary snow-covered branches into delicate rime-coated trees. As you transfer to the Kogen Line, these "soft rime" trees evolve into massive frost-covered figures, eventually becoming the giant "Snow Monsters" that Zao is famous for.

On the summit, if the weather is nice and has a clear sky, you will be able to enjoy the spectacular panoramatic scenery looking over Yamagata, and most excitingly the herd of "Snow Monsters"!

Their breathtaking beauty draws visitors from around the globe, all eager to witness them with their own eyes.