These figurines are known as 'juhyo'--which translates to 'snow monsters'--in the area. These "creatures" of snow and ice are built up over tree trunks and branches.
According to AccuWeather, the quirky and unique creations are formed when a set of complex weather conditions occur together. The "snow monsters" come up when windblown ice is covered by snow in repeated cycles, building hulking shapes on the mountain slopes.
As a result, the snow and water droplets solidify in various forms against the tree branches. With every fresh snowfall, these shapes further take form over the trees—giving shape to a series of unique "snow monsters".
The visitors to Mount Zao can safely walk near them, ski or snowboard alongside the creatures, or view them from the comfort of a cable car while enjoying stunning views of Japan.
Tourists from all over the world come to view the winter allure of Mount Zao, which is best visible between January and mid-March
Visitors can get an expansive view of juhyos through a ropeway ride that takes one from the foot of Mount Zao to the top of the mountain, as per THE GATE, a website dedicated to travelling in Japan.
At night, the snow monsters look even more stunning as they are illuminated in a variety of flashy colours giving them a mystical look.
As has been the case, this year too, thousands of tourists have arrived in the mountain area to get a glimpse of the rare scene.
According to a report in The Atlantic, the seemingly mystical occurrence entirely depends on a delicate balance of the right weather conditions. The snow monsters are created through the repeated process of high winds blowing snow onto rime ice that then binds to trees and tree branches, creating snow clumps that appear monster-like.
Strong high winds also blow water from a nearby lake toward the mountainside, and the water droplets freeze on the branches, according to Reuters. Also, fresh snow can fall and also bind to the ice. This process happens over and over throughout the winter.
Reader Comments
I guess the admin here likes to post BS. That or critical thinking is missing. One or the other. Ignorance I suppose of the sights of winter to give benefit of doubt.