Yamagata’s Zao Juhyo Light-Up: Winter scenery glowing in the pitch-dark night

See the shapes of the juhyo in the light

The event takes place along the Zao Ropeway Jizo Sancho Line and near Jizo Sancho Station. The official information describes juhyo glowing under colorful lights against the quiet darkness of night. The scene has a different character from the silver-white landscape by day, offering a nighttime view of these winter formations illuminated in a new way.

Juhyo form when Aomori todomatsu fir trees, which grow in the subalpine zone, become covered in snow and ice. Supercooled water droplets in snow clouds hit the branches and needles and freeze, forming shapes known as “shrimp tails.” Snowflakes then collect in the gaps. As the frozen layers gradually harden, the trees develop into juhyo.

The Zao Ropeway’s information also explains the weather conditions behind juhyo formation: winter monsoon winds pick up moisture over the Sea of Japan, forming snow clouds that bring snow to the mountains. Looking closely at the ice formed on the branch tips and the snowflakes layered over it offers a glimpse of how this natural spectacle takes shape.

Juhyo form in stages over the course of the season. According to the official information, November and December are the early stage, January is the growth stage, and February is the peak. When choosing a date during the event period, you can also consider how the natural phenomenon develops through winter.

For another way to see the juhyo, you can ride the Night Cruiser and experience them up close. If you are considering this in addition to viewing them along the ropeway line or near the station, check the official information for ride requirements and fares.

Check the dates and dress warmly

The event runs from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. It is generally held on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, but not on January 8 or 15, 2027. It is also scheduled to run on December 30 and 31, 2026, and February 10 and 22, 2027. The event does not take place every day during the period and may be canceled due to bad weather or other conditions, so check the schedule and operating status before choosing a date.

A ropeway fare is required to view the juhyo. If you plan to ride the Night Cruiser, check the official information for how to use it and any conditions, as well as the fare, and plan according to how you wish to see the juhyo.

Temperatures at the venue can fall below -10°C, so make sure you are well prepared for the cold. Dress for spending time outdoors at night. Skis and snowboards cannot be brought in or used. Check the event dates and visitor information, and prepare for the cold before you go.