The 'ice monsters' are created exclusively by the unique meteorological conditions of the Ou Mountains, where supercooled water droplets freeze upon contact with Aomori fir trees.
Mount Moriyoshi is a volcano that last erupted approximately 30,000 years ago.
The resort is one of the few places in Japan where you can observe the juhyo phenomenon via a gondola ride without needing to engage in cross-country skiing.
The mountain ecosystem is home to the Japanese golden eagle, an endangered species often spotted by birdwatchers in the area.
Despite its elevation, the resort is popular for its relatively accessible summit walk, which is cleared during peak frost season.
Ani Ski Resort is best known for the 'juhyo' or ice monsters, which are frost-covered trees formed by heavy snowfall and wind conditions on Mount Moriyoshi. The resort operates a gondola system that transports visitors to an altitude of approximately 1,200 meters to view these natural ice sculptures. During the winter, the area serves as a ski destination with groomed runs and ungroomed deep-powder zones. Outside of winter, the mountain is used for hiking and trekking through the lush greenery of the northern Tohoku region. Mount Moriyoshi is classified as one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains, offering panoramic views of the Akita plains. The summit area provides expansive vistas that can reach as far as the Sea of Japan on clear days.
The observation platform at the top gondola station provides the clearest vantage point for the ice monsters.
Wear high-quality, insulated waterproof boots, as the snow depth at the summit can reach several meters.
Check local weather reports specifically for wind speed, as high winds often force the temporary closure of the summit gondola.
Bring polarized sunglasses to prevent snow blindness, as the reflection from the white frost can be intense.
Assuming the gondola is running during blizzard conditions; always verify the operational status on the morning of your visit.
The gondola operation is highly seasonal, generally focusing on winter sports and the ice monster season from December to early March; limited services operate during summer for hiking access.
Stick strictly to marked trails when walking near the frost trees to avoid damaging the fragile ice structures or falling into deep snow pockets.
