Shubuki Ice

【Ice Art】A winter miracle that appears on an unprecedented scale in Japan. The ice monster 'Shibuki Ice' of Lake Inawashiro.

When it comes to winter traditions of Lake Inawashiro, the arrival of swans is well-known, but you can also experience the more niche and overwhelming natural mystery of 'Shibuki Ice.' We introduce this beautiful yet rugged ice sculpture that only appears under the limited conditions of the harsh winter.

■ A highly rare large-scale phenomenon that occurs under miraculous conditions

The focus here is on the mechanism behind this phenomenon and its rarity.

• Formation mechanism: Water splashes are blown onto the trees along the shore by intense local winds sweeping across the lake, and they freeze as they are.
• Rare location: Large-scale Shibuki Ice can only be seen in very few places in Japan, such as Lake Inawashiro. This miraculous phenomenon occurs because it is a huge lake with high waves and trees at the water's edge.

■ No two are alike in 'Ice Art'

The shape changes moment by moment as it grows daily depending on the strength of the blowing wind and the temperature.

• Ice monster: The bizarre form sculpted by nature with wind and water is the 'Ice Monster' of Lake Inawashiro, rivaling the snow monsters (Juhyo) of Mount Nishi-Azuma.
• Breathtaking scenery shining in the winter sunlight: The moment when the transparent ice reflects the winter light and sparkles is truly a supreme view that only those who have traveled through the harsh snow country can witness.