Snowshoeing at Dewa Sanzan

While the higher summits of the Dewa Sanzan range are unreachable in deep winter, Mt. Haguro at 414 meters can be climbed year-round, and the Gassan Visitor Center runs guided snowshoe tours throughout the cold months. Tours cover the mountain's cedar forests and its history, and occasional evening excursions go out after dark to watch flying squirrels gliding between trees. Tour fees cover snowshoe rental, insurance, and on select tours a snack and onsen bath afterward. Tours are conducted in Japanese, so non-Japanese speakers should bring translation tools or arrange interpretation. Contact the visitor center for current schedules and booking.