In Japanese folklore, the snow woman said to appear on freezing mountain nights is Yuki-onna.
Yuki-onna is a supernatural figure associated with snow, winter storms, and remote mountainous places. Stories commonly describe her as a beautiful woman with pale clothing, long hair, and an unusually cold presence. In some versions she appears to travelers during blizzards, while in others she becomes part of a tragic romance.
Her behavior differs across regional tales. Some stories portray her as a deadly spirit who freezes people or drains their life force; others show mercy toward children, travelers, or a husband who keeps a promise. This variation reflects the broad regional diversity of Japanese folklore.
Yuki-onna is sometimes confused with other female yōkai, including ubume and rokurokubi. Those figures have different associations: ubume is linked to childbirth and death, while rokurokubi is known for a stretching neck. Yuki-onna remains specifically tied to snow and winter landscapes.