14/06/2026
Snowshoe Walk Through Japan’s Hidden Snow Country | Exploring Remote Akiyamago, Niigata
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https://youtu.be/WrNdsPa9YCQ
map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/fZg15mBVubT5Bix26
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Tsunan Tourism Association
津南町観光協会
7194-2 Ko, Shimofunato, Tsunan-machi, Nakauonuma-gun, Niigata 949-8201, Japan
TEL: +81-25-765-5585
E-mail: [email protected]
Naeba-Sanroku Geopark
苗場山麓ジオパーク
https://naeba-geo.org/
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Discover the culture, environment, and traditions of Japan’s snowy mountain regions with a local guide.
In this episode, we explore Akiyamago, a secluded mountain village deep in Niigata Prefecture, one of Japan’s heaviest snowfall areas.
Using traditional snow-country gear such as kanjiki snowshoes, we trek across the winter landscape to visit the mysterious “Shishi-ana” area — a place that can only be reached because of the deep snow.
Along the journey, we encounter plants and trees that have adapted to life under extreme snowfall, quietly preparing for the arrival of spring.
How do trees survive months buried in snow?
Why do some trunks grow bent yet reach straight toward the sky?
Join us as we uncover the hidden ecology, geology, and wisdom of life in Japan’s snow country.
Timestamps
00:43 Traditional snow-country tools
(Kanjiki snowshoes, Sedge Hat, Suppon snow gear)
02:45 Exploring around the Shishi-ana area
03:27 Why are some trees bent at the base?
04:16 Beech trees — a symbol of Japan’s snow country
04:57 Columnar joints known as “Shishi-ana”
06:47 Birch sap — the “maple syrup” of birch trees
08:36 The shape of maple seeds
