In Japan’s snowy northeastern landscape, reports of “snow monsters” often emerge. These are actually tree ice formations created when the northwest monsoon from Siberia in winter brings heavy snow and ice that accumulate and coat entire coniferous pine trees. The bizarre shapes create the signature spectacle of King Yamato. Riding a snow vehicle that conquers the plateau offers an even more thrilling view of the beauty of these tree ice formations.
King Yamato’s tree ice is a unique winter phenomenon in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan, where once lush green pine trees become clusters of tree ice, each with its own distinct expression, much like human faces. Aside from strolling or taking a snow vehicle to experience this magical northeastern wonder beneath the towering tree ice, you can also ride a 360-degree observation gondola up to the plateau to admire the world of tree ice made of snow and ice. The northeast also boasts many other famous attractions perfect for winter visits, such as Ginzan Onsen, Mogami River Snow Viewing Boat, the centuries-old Godaido Temple, Tendo Shogi Museum, Risshakuji Temple, and Matsushima cruise.
Ginzan Onsen is the filming location of the drama “Oshin.” Its scenery retains the charm of the Taisho period, with overlapping three- and four-story tiled roofs telling the long history of Ginzan. Crossing the Silver Bridge, wisps of hot steam rise slowly along the stone-paved walking path. Sitting on a specially designed bench with your feet soaked in the hot spring while gazing at the scenery and chatting makes for a truly satisfying experience.
Soaking in an onsen during the cold winter has a special charm. Kyushu’s hot spring towns such as Aso, Beppu, and Yufuin, each with its own distinctive style, make Kyushu the top choice for onsen experiences in Japan. Following the popularity of the Japanese drama “Atsuhime,” Kyushu has once again become a travel hotspot—not only home to the world’s largest active volcanic basin, “Aso Caldera in Kumamoto,” but also rich in onsen resources. Aso is a classic stratovolcano. Take a cable car up to the crater of Mount Aso’s central peak to witness the volcano’s grandeur, enjoying the best vantage point to watch the gentle plumes of smoke rising slowly from the crater of this active volcano. You can also take in the majestic view of the entire Aso region within the expansive Aso Kuju National Park.
Canxing Travel has launched charter flight packages for the northeastern and Kyushu regions, including the “Yamagata King Yamato Tree Ice, Gondola, Snow Vehicle, Cruise & Gourmet 5-Day Tour” and the “Southern Kyushu Takachiho Gorge, Atsuhime’s Satsuma, Sakurajima Cruise, Gozen Ski 4-Day Tour.” These tours take you to some of Japan’s most culturally rich sites and deep into natural wonders. The second traveler can enjoy discounts ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 yen. For more travel details, visit the Canxing Travel website.
Read more: Kumamoto’s Kurokawa Onsen in Kyushu (provided by Tripass Attractions)
