Three large statues of the gods Jizo Son, Daikokuten, and Daigongen were built on Zao to protect the people who live on the mountain. “Jizo Son” is the Japanese name of the bodhisattva Khitigarbha, who is revered in Japan as a protector of children. The Zao Jizo Son was built in 1775 and is easily accessible by the Zao Ropeway, but during the winter only the statue’s head is visible above the snow.
Zao Daikokuten can be found near Outlook Point at Torikabuto Station. The statue was erected in 1980 for the safety of visitors to Zao and the continued health of the tourism economy. Zao Daigongen was erected in 2002 near Chuo-Kogen Station. Daigongen is the deity who keeps the town safe from disaster and maintains peace throughout the year.