Every winter in northern Japan, a breathtaking natural phenomenon takes place: the arrival of giant "snow monsters." Known as juhyo in the Japanese language, these mystical beings are the result of exceptionally rare atmospheric conditions that bring freezing winter winds to the country's Tohoku region. What happens next is truly remarkable, as
trees piled high with snow and frost are sculpted into magnificent, unworldly figures that are revered throughout Japan. But the juhyo face a challenging future, as global warming threatens their very existence.
So, why are these ghostly forms so culturally significant, and what efforts are being made to prevent their meltdown? To find out more about Japan's incredible snow monsters, click through this gallery and experience the juhyo effect.