Will Japan’s famous “Snow Monsters” survive the brink? Here is what study found

Japan’s famous snow monsters are shrinking due to pests and climate change (Image: Yanagisawa Fumitaka)

Mount Zao’s famous “snow monsters” are fading faster than expected. Ice-covered fir trees, known as juhyo, attract tourists every winter. Scientists warn environmental stress threatens both the trees and formations.

What Are the Snow Monsters?

The snow monsters are subalpine fir trees coated in ice. Freezing winds and moisture create thick rime-ice and snow layers. This natural phenomenon forms ghostly, large white shapes during winter. The trees transform into iconic sculptures, unique to Mount Zaō.

Why Are They Disappearing?

The decline occurs across the Zao region in northern Japan. Previously thick formations are now smaller, patchy, or absent completely. Tree damage and environmental changes are driving the rapid disappearance.

Many fir trees are dying or losing branches from pests. Rising temperatures have boosted pest infestations affecting tree health. Changing climate conditions reduce snow accumulation and ice formation rates.

What Do Measurements Show?

In August 2025, Yanagisawa’s team analysed photographs since 1933. They measured juhyo thickness using a six-point comparative scale.

"In the 1930s, we saw juhyo five to six metres [16-20ft] across. By the postwar decades, they were often two to three metres [7-10ft]. Since 2019, many are half a metre [1.6ft] or less. Some are barely columns", Yanagisawa says.

When Can Recovery Occur?

Replanting fir saplings has started in affected forest areas. Both biological and climatic factors threaten the iconic winter landscape. Full recovery may take decades depending on climate and tree survival. Long-term success requires both ecological restoration and environmental stability.

How Is Action Being Taken?

The authorities and experts aim to maintain forest health and resilience. Monitoring, planting and pest control are part of conservation strategies. However, future success depends on climate trends and ecosystem recovery.

The snow monsters’ disappearance highlights climate change impacts on fragile ecosystems. Their preservation remains crucial for biodiversity, culture, and local tourism.