There is a spot on Mount Moriyoshi where you can admire “ice-covered trees,” a phenomenon that appears only from early January through early March.

Frost-covered trees are a natural phenomenon that occurs only under specific conditions; they form when the branches and needles of the Aomori fir—a type of conifer—freeze on the surface due to wind and snow, and snow then accumulates on them.

Because they resemble snow monsters, they are known as “Snow Monsters” even to visitors from overseas.

The tree ice on Mount Moriyoshi is counted among the “Three Great Tree Ice Sites of Japan,” alongside Zao (Yamagata and Miyagi) and Hakkoda (Aomori).

While tree ice typically forms only at high altitudes, Mount Moriyoshi is easily accessible for viewing via the gondola at Ani Ski Resort.

Please check the official website for gondola operating hours.

Ani Ski Resort Official Website: https://www.aniski.jp/

Another great perk during the winter season is that you can rent boots, snowshoes, and poles for free at the gondola’s summit station.

You can also rent skis, snowboards, and other snow gear for a fee, allowing you to enjoy backcountry skiing through the ice-covered trees.

Additionally, on the night tour—which uses a snow groomer equipped with a cabin—you can admire the white ice-covered trees floating in the darkness of the night, a sight not usually visible. (Available for a limited time)

[How to Get to Ani Ski Resort]

In recent years, the resort has seen an increase in visitors, which can lead to congestion in parking lots and on roads.

Therefore, we recommend that guests arriving by car use the “Free Frosted Trees Viewing Shuttle Bus,” which also offers a discount on round-trip gondola fares.

⇩For details⇩

2026年森吉山樹氷鑑賞スタート！オススメのアクセス方法をお知らせします！

In addition to the rime ice, the resort is open all four seasons. Don’t miss the beautiful flowers in spring, the lush greenery in summer, and the vibrant autumn foliage.

Please see this article for more details.

ゴンドラで行く森吉山