Zao Ropeway and Snow Monsters Day Trip by Train from Tokyo

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. After meeting your tour conductor, depart from Tokyo Station between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM aboard the Tohoku Shinkansen Yamabiko in reserved standard-class seating. Arrive at Fukushima Station and continue by coach toward Zao. Important: Final train details, including exact meeting time and train number, will be confirmed 1 week prior to your tour date and sent via Viator chat. Please check your messages for updates.

   90 minutes here

2. After approximately 100 minutes of travel, arrive at Zao Sanroku Station, the gateway to one of Japan's most famous winter destinations. Board the ropeway and begin your journey into the snowy mountains of Zao.

   50 minutes here · Admission included

3. Travel through the mountains by ropeway, enjoying views of snow-covered forests and the surrounding landscape as you ascend toward higher elevations.

   120 minutes here · Admission included

4. Arrive at Jizo Sancho Station, where you will spend time exploring the mountaintop area and viewing the famous Zao Snow Monsters. Created by a rare combination of freezing temperatures, strong seasonal winds, and heavy snowfall, these ice-covered trees form towering natural sculptures that transform the mountainside into a spectacular winter wonderland. No two formations are exactly alike, creating a constantly changing landscape shaped by nature. Take time to admire the sweeping views across the snow-covered mountain range and experience one of Japan's most iconic winter phenomena. The Snow Monsters are typically at their best from late December through early March, though viewing conditions depend on weather and snowfall. The total time spent on the ropeway including sightseeing is 120 minutes.

   100 minutes here

5. After your visit, descend by ropeway through the winter landscape to Juhyo Kogen Station.

   30 minutes here · Admission included

6. Continue by ropeway to Zao Sanroku Station and rejoin the coach for the next part of the journey.

   30 minutes here · Admission included

7. After approximately 50 minutes of travel, arrive in Takahata. Enjoy an early dinner featuring Yonezawa beef sukiyaki, prepared with one of Japan's most highly regarded wagyu beef varieties. Known for its tenderness and rich flavor, Yonezawa beef is considered one of the three great wagyu brands of Japan. Dinner is scheduled for approximately 4:00 PM.

   70 minutes here

8. After approximately 70 minutes of travel, return to Fukushima Station. Board the Tohoku Shinkansen Yamabiko in reserved standard-class seating for the journey back to Tokyo. The tour concludes with arrival at Tokyo Station between 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM, with optional drop-off available at Omiya Station and Ueno Station along the way.

   90 minutes here

Where it starts and ends

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

ja, en

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Mon, Wed, Thu

Group size

Up to 30 travelers per booking

Operated by

Club Tourism International Inc.

Know before you go

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• This tour is operated for both Japanese and foreign customers. A Japanese tour conductor will accompany the group and provide key information using a translation app. Please note that the tour conductor is not a tour guide and will focus on sharing essential information during the tour.
• Due to traffic conditions, the bus arrival may be delayed and the order of the itinerary may change.
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be contacted 10 days prior to your travel date and offered an alternative or full refund.
• Delays, shortenings of the tour or omissions made to the itinerary due to traffic, weather or other circumstances that are beyond the control of the tour operator are not subject to refund
• Wearing comfortable shoes and clothes is strongly recommended
• Infant (0-2 years old) are free of charge but with no product inclusions.
• Delays due to transportation issues or non-participation will be subject to cancellation fees. The tour will depart at the time indicated.
• Please note that even for groups, train seats may not be arranged side by side or close together.
• Due to weather conditions or natural growth patterns, snow monsters (juhyo) and snowy landscapes may not be visible. No refunds will be provided in such cases.
• The snow vehicle and ropeway may be suspended or operate on a modified route due to weather conditions, unusually warm temperatures, or other reasons. If a service is canceled, a partial refund equivalent to the affected portion may be provided depending on the circumstances. However, no refund will be given if alternative arrangements are provided in its place.
• If the ropeway is suspended, alternative sightseeing visits to Uesugi Shrine and Kumano Taisha Shrine (Yamagata Prefecture) are planned.
• Viewing the Zao Snow Monsters takes place at high altitude in an extremely cold environment. Temperatures are often below -10°C and may drop below -15°C when strong winds occur. Ski wear or other waterproof winter clothing is strongly recommended, along with a knit hat that covers the ears, waterproof gloves, and non-slip snow boots or other suitable winter footwear.
• Remaining time is for travel back and forth

Photos