Yamagata’s Icefall Ice Monster Snow Trekking tour offers an unparalleled winter adventure. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this 5-hour snowshoeing excursion immerses participants in the region’s breathtaking landscapes.

From frost-covered trees to frozen waterfalls, the Icefall and Senninzawa Ice Garden promise a truly captivating experience. While the $131.58 per person price tag may seem steep, the tour’s inclusions and safety guidance make it an enticing option for small groups seeking a unique winter escape. Discover what wonders await in this winter wonderland.

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Key Points

Icefall Ice Monster Snow Trekking is a 5-hour guided snowshoeing tour exploring the Icefall (Hyobaku) and Senninzawa Ice Garden in Yamagata.
The tour includes rental of essential gear like snowshoes, stocks, light crampons, and helmets, as well as insurance, lift fee, and hot water for meals.
Participants must have stamina for over four hours of walking with steep descents and climbs, and the route may change based on field conditions.
Transportation options include a free shuttle bus from Kaminoyama Onsen Station (with overnight stay required) or taxi services at an additional cost.
The tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, or those with low fitness levels.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The article provides an overview of the Icefall Ice Monster Snow Trekking activity in Zao, Yamagata, which is priced from $131.58 per person and lasts for 5 hours.

It’s a guided snowshoeing tour to explore the Icefall (Hyobaku) and Senninzawa Ice Garden, where participants can witness frost-covered trees and frozen waterfalls.

The group size is limited to 5 participants, and the tour is available from January to March, with English as the primary language.

The activity includes essential gear rental, insurance, lift fee, and a lunch break at the Ice Garden.

Tour Experience

As participants embark on the guided snowshoeing tour, they’ll explore the enchanting Icefall (Hyobaku) and Senninzawa Ice Garden.

The trek involves downhill travel from the Zao Liza World Ski Resort to the Icefall, where they’ll witness frost-covered trees and frozen waterfalls.

During the lunch break at the Ice Garden, hot water is provided for meal preparation.

The activities include walking in fresh snow, sliding, and climbing.

Throughout the experience, the guide will lead the way, ensuring the group’s safety and capturing memorable photos.

Inclusions and Equipment

Aside from the guide fee, the package includes essential gear rental such as snowshoes, stocks, light crampons, and a helmet.

The rental gear, insurance, consumption tax, lift fee, hot water, portable toilet, and photos taken by the guide are all included.

Plus, the tour provides:

Free shuttle bus from Kaminoyama Onsen Station (overnight stay required)
Taxi options (7,000 yen one way or 13,200 yen round trip for up to 4 people)
Parking fee of 1,000 yen on weekends/holidays (free on weekdays)

The comprehensive package ensures participants are equipped for a safe and enjoyable icefall snow trekking experience.

Meeting Point and Transportation

Where’s the meeting point for this icefall snow trekking activity?

The meeting point is inside the building where the restaurant is located. Late arrivals will result in reservation cancellation, so it’s crucial to arrive on time.

Transportation options include a free shuttle bus from Kaminoyama Onsen Station, which requires an overnight stay, or a taxi.

The taxi costs 7,000 yen one-way or 13,200 yen round-trip for up to four people.

It’s important to plan your transportation in advance to ensure a smooth start to the icefall trekking experience.

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Participant Requirements and Restrictions

This icefall snow trekking activity isn’t suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, and those with low fitness levels.

Participants must have the stamina for over four hours of walking, as the route involves some steep descents and climbs.

Proper attire is essential, including:

Warm clothing
Sunglasses
Gloves and warm shoes

Pets aren’t allowed, but first-time snow climbers are welcome.

The route to the icefall may change based on field conditions, so participants should be prepared for a dynamic and challenging adventure.

Exploring the Icefall and Ice Garden

As participants arrive at the meeting point, the guide leads them on a scenic snowshoeing trek towards the Icefall (Hyobaku) and Senninzawa Ice Garden.

The group explores the frost-covered trees and frozen waterfalls, marveling at the otherworldly landscapes.

Trekking downhill from the ski resort, they encounter fresh snow, opportunities to slide, and some climbing.

At the Ice Garden, they enjoy a lunch break, using the provided hot water to prepare their meals.

Throughout the adventure, the guide ensures the group’s safety and captures photos to commemorate the experience.

Highlights of the Snow Trekking Adventure

Though the Icefall Snow Trekking adventure begins with a scenic descent from the Zao Liza World Ski Resort, the real highlights come from exploring the otherworldly landscapes of the Icefall and Senninzawa Ice Garden.

The tour offers three key highlights:

Trekking through the enchanting Icefall, where frost-covered trees and frozen waterfalls create a magical winter wonderland.
Discovering the Senninzawa Ice Garden, a unique frozen landscape that invites adventurers to slide, climb, and play in the snow.
Enjoying a well-deserved lunch break in the Ice Garden, where hot water is provided for meal preparation, warming up both body and soul.

Tips for a Successful Icefall Excursion

To make the most of the Icefall Snow Trekking adventure, participants should keep a few key tips in mind.

Dress warmly and in layers, as the weather can change quickly. Bring sufficient food and water to sustain the long trek.

Although guides provide basic equipment, consider bringing personal gear like trekking poles for stability on the snow. Pay close attention to the guide’s instructions, especially during steep descents.

Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed. Most importantly, embrace the unique winter wonderland and enjoy the stunning ice formations and frozen landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy states that late arrivals will result in the reservation being cancelled. No further details are provided about any other cancellation policies for this tour.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated on the Tour?

The tour does not explicitly mention any dietary accommodations. Participants should bring their own food and drinks for the lunch break at the Ice Garden, where hot water is provided for meal preparation.

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

The tour can be booked for a private group, but the group size is limited to 5 participants. Private tours are subject to availability and may incur an additional fee beyond the standard per-person price.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for Participants?

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, those with heart problems, or participants with low fitness levels. A good level of stamina for over 4 hours of walking is required.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour to Run?

The tour is limited to a maximum of 5 participants, but there is no minimum requirement. The group size is kept small to provide a more personalized experience for the snowshoeing adventure.

The Sum Up

The Icefall Ice Monster Snow Trekking tour in Yamagata offers a breathtaking winter adventure. Guided by a local expert, this 5-hour snowshoeing experience showcases the stunning landscapes of Icefall and Senninzawa Ice Garden, where visitors can marvel at frost-covered trees and frozen waterfalls. With essential gear rental and safety guidance, this unique trek is perfect for small groups and first-time snow climbers, ensuring a memorable journey.