Mt. Moriyoshi in Kitaakita City is one of only three places in Japan where a natural phenomenon called “snow monsters” occurs. These icy figures are caused by water droplets carried from the Sea of Japan on strong winds colliding with and freezing on tree branches. These snow monsters can be viewed just a few minutes’ walk from the mountaintop gondola station, and the silvery-white scenery is popular among tourists and photographers alike. In addition to the landscape, Mt. Moriyoshi is also known for its glade skiing, where visitors can weave through the snow monsters and silver frost on their way down the mountain. The snow monsters can typically be seen from mid-January to early March, but make sure to check Ani Ski Resort’s official website for the latest news and updates on the snow monsters.