Japan gets some of the heaviest snowfalls in the world.

At this time of year, people can enjoy some otherworldly sights created by the snow at about 5,000 feet high.

Mt. Zao in northern Japan is famous for its so-called snow monsters.

The phenomenon occurs when pine trees become covered in layers of ice and snow.

One worker says this year’s snow monsters are the biggest he’s ever seen.

The ice monsters will be at their best through early March.