Japan Snow Guide 2018 by Outdoor Japan

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WINTER 2018

We grow our own. (And we don’t cut down rainforests to do it.) Dan Ross at warp speed on the last wave of the day at an isolated North Atlantic slab. All of our Yulex ® wetsuits are made with natural rubber from sources that are Forest Stewardship Council® certified by the Rainforest Alliance—ensuring the rubber doesn’t come from newly clear-cut rainforest. AL MACKINNON © 2017 Patagonia, Inc.

patagonia.com/yulex

HOKKAIDO

Kamui Ski Links

he general rule with skiing is, the farther north you go, the better the snow. Well, you can’t go any farther north in Japan than Hokkaido,

and the area rightfully creates the biggest buzz for people in search of deep powder. The reason for this is simple: Hokkaido consistently gets the best snow conditions, and Niseko in particular is recognized as a

Furano

Kiroro Snow World

Sahoro

Niseko Grand Hirafu Niseko Village Niseko Annupuri

world-class ski resort, rivaling the long-established ski areas in Europe and North America. However, anyone thinking Hokkaido is a one-trick

Rusutsu

pony will be pleasantly surprised to find there are some great ski areas all

Tomamu

over Japan’s north island.

NISEKO Kutchan-cho, Hokkaido Niseko United: www.niseko.ne.jp

NISEKO GRAND HIRAFU, NISEKO ANNUPURI, NISEKO VILLAGE RESORT

Niseko Grand Hirafu 37% 1 8 Park

Park

Niseko Annupuri

Longest Course: 4,000m Top Elevation: 1,156m Base Elevation: 400m Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Niseko HANAZONO Resort

Longest Course: 4,550m Top Elevation: 1,030m Base Elevation: 308m

Niseko Grand Hirafu

Advanced

Longest Course: 5,600m Top Elevation: 1,200m Niseko Village Base Elevation: 240m Longest Course: 5,000m Top Elevation: 1,175m Base Elevation: 280m

40% 5 1

23% 1

36% 1

32% 4

32% 2

courses

Niseko Annupuri 30% 1

40% 1

Niseko HANAZONO Resort 30% 4

courses

For more Hokkaido information visit OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

Niseko Village Resort

25% 3

courses

63%

12%

Niseko gets a lot of attention, and rightfully so. It is the most international ski resort in Japan and consistently gets some of the heaviest snowfall in the world. The mountain, Mt. Annupuri (which, in Ainu, means White Mountain), is home to three ski resorts: Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village (formerly Niseko Higashiyama) and Niseko Annupuri.

Collectively they form Niseko United and share a common lift pass. The Hanazono area of Niseko Grand Hirafu is independently managed, and one of the more progressive areas on the mountain, featuring three terrain parks and the only FIS Half Pipe in Japan, which is well maintained throughout the season, and a bag jump, where you can safely practice your freestyle tricks. Niseko Village (which is a 10-minute drive from the main Hirafu Village area) also has nice facilities and a lot of activities. Niseko Annupuri keeps the lowest profile of the three, but has some nice areas that can be less crowded. Other nearby resorts are Niseko Moiwa and Niseko Weiss. The lifts are no longer running at Weiss, but cat tours service the area. While a few other resorts may challenge Niseko’s claim to the best powder in Japan, there is no doubt Niseko has the best, and widest, selection of restaurants and accommodations in Japan. The infrastructure is well organized, with efficient bus service to/from Sapporo and New Chitose Airport and a shuttle bus that takes visitors to the various resorts. On one of those rare mid-season clear days, the view of Mt. Yotei from the slopes is the quintessential image of skiing in Japan.

NISEKO ANNUPURI (0136) 58-2080 www.cks.chuo-bus.co.jp/annupuri End of Nov. - Mid-May 8:30 - 20:30 (16:30 - 20:30) 1 DAY TICKET

ACCESS

Adults Kids

¥5,000 ¥2,900

Park

By Train: 120 minutes from Sapporo Station to Kutchan Station By Car: 120 minutes from Sapporo City and New Chitose Airport

NISEKO GRAND HIRAFU (0136) 22-0109 Nov. 23 - May 6 1 DAY TICKET

ACCESS

Adults Kids

www.grand-hirafu.jp 8:30 - 20:30 (16:30 - 20:30)

¥5,200 ¥2,900

Park

By Train: 120 minutes from Sapporo Station to Kutchan Station By Car: 160 minutes from Sapporo City and 180 minutes from New Chitose Airport

NISEKO VILLAGE (0136) 44-2211 Dec. 9 - Apr. 8 1 DAY TICKET

ACCESS

Adults Youth Kids

www.niseko-village.com 8:30 - 20:00 (16:30 - 20:00) ¥5,000 ¥3,950 ¥3,100

Park

By Train: 120 minutes from Sapporo Station to Kutchan Station By Car: 120 minutes from Sapporo City and New Chitose Airport

NISEKO HANAZONO RESORT (0136) 23-0103 Dec. 2 - Apr. 8 1 DAY TICKET

ACCESS

Adults Kids

https://hanazononiseko.com 8:30 - 16:00 ¥5,200 ¥2,900

Park

By Train: 120 minutes from Sapporo Station to Kutchan Station By Car: 120 minutes from Sapporo City and New Chitose Airport More information online at www.outdoorjapan.com/snow WINTER 2018

RUSUTSU RESORT (0136) 46-3331 Nov. 25 - Apr. 8

Rusutsu, Hokkaido

www.hokkaido-rusutsu.com 9:00 - 20:00 (16:00-21:00)

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥5,900 ¥3,000

Park

Rusutsu is more than a good day trip from Niseko. It’s an excellent all-round mountain with 37 courses over three mountains: Mt. Isola, East Mountain and West Mountain. Powder lovers will love the big valleys full of deep tree runs funneling down to the modern, efficient lifts, and everyone will enjoy the views of the back side of Mt. Yotei and the quieter alternative to bustling Niseko. The ski-in/ski-out Rusutsu Resort Hotel is the most convenient place to stay with hot springs, day care, fireworks during Christmas and New Year and a variety of great activities.

30% 4

40 7

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

40% 7

30% 4

Advanced

courses

Longest C Top Ele Base Ele

30% 7

Park

ACCESS

Beginner By Train: 120 minutes from Sapporo Station to Kutchan Station Lifts By Car: 90 minutes from New Chitose Airport

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

KIRORO SNOW WORLD

Longest Course: 3,500m Top Elevation: 994m Base Elevation: 400m

courses

Akaigawa, Hokkaido

(0135) 34-7111 www.kiroro.co.jp/english/ Nov. 23 - Mid-May 9:00 - 20:00 (16:30 - 19:30)

Adults Kids

1 DAY TICKET

¥5,500 ¥2,800

Kiroro is a relatively new (opened in 1992) ski resort just 30 kilometers west of Sapporo. The resort has great facilities, some amazing views of the Japan Sea and the natural surroundings and gets a lot of snow from midDecember until early May. Kiroro makes up for its lack of challenging terrain by offering a few powder pockets and plenty of gentle slopes for beginners and children. The ""Powder Zone"" opens middle of January to middle of March. Kiroro also has one of the best base lodges in Japan, complete with a hot spring to soak away the day’s bumps and bruises and an adjacent hotel with good restaurants.

Park

37% 1

37 4

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

37% 4

37% 1

Advanced

courses

Longest Co Top Elev Base Ele

26% 4

Park

NOZAWA BACKCOUNTRY TOURS

ACCESS

SAPPORO KOKUSAI (0115) 98-4511 Nov. 17 - May 6

Untracked powder, BC knowledge, Riding tips, Professional guides

www.nozawaski.com nozawaskischool@gmail.com

080-9083-2172

Sapporo, Hokkaido

www.sapporo-kokusai.jp 9:00 - 17:00 (-18:00 on weekends)

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥3,200 ¥1,000

If you ski or snowboard, Sapporo is hard to beat. Residents can get a few quick runs just 15 minutes from downtown at Sapporo Bankei. However, many families make the one-hour drive out to “Kokusai,” which offers more choices for beginners and intermediate skiers and has a nice park. Although this is a day-trip resort, it does attract a spattering of international guests who find it hard to stay in the city when snow is falling. Most will be pleasantly surprised as this coastal resort gets its fair share of powder days and offers some varied, albeit fairly short, runs and a small, but decent park. Night skiing is not available. Park

ACCESS

By car: One hour from Sapporo city center, depending

onBeginner traffic Intermediate Lifts Gondola

Advanced

Park

30% 2 Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

60% 1

10% 2

30% 2

courses

SAPPORO TEINE (0116) 82-6000 Nov. 18 - May 6

Longest C Top Elev Base El

Longest Course: 3,600m Top Elevation: 1,100m Base Elevation: 670m

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥5,200 ¥2,600

Beginner

Intermediate

By Car: 30 minutes from Sapporo city center, depending Lifts on traffic Gondola

Advanced

Park

40% 1

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

40% 1

courses

30% 1

Advanced

30%

Longest Course: 6,000m Top Elevation: 1,023m Base Elevation: 340m

For more Hokkaido information visit OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

courses

60 1

Sapporo, Hokkaido

www.sapporo-teine.com 9:00 - 21:00 (16:00 - 21:00)

If someone mentions the Winter Olympics in Japan, you’ll undoubtedly think of the 1998 Nagano Olympics. Yet 26 years earlier, Sapporo hosted its own Winter Games at a resort just 30 minutes from downtown Sapporo. Yet, what might be most surprising is this resort, Sapporo Teine, offers some steep and deep powder fun for intermediate and advanced riders. The off-piste terrain is up in the Teine Highland area, accessible without having to duck ropes or elude the patrol. The Teine Olympia is a kinder, gentler area, which has a lively park scene. Night skiing available until 9 p.m.

ACCESS

Longest Course: 4,050m Top Elevation: 1,180m Base Elevation: 570m

10 Advanced By Car: About 30 minutes by car from Otaru or 80 minutesBeginner by car Intermediate from downcourses Lifts Gondola town Sapporo

courses

30 1

Longest Co Top Elev Base Ele

SAHORO RESORT (0156) 64-4121 Dec. 2 - Apr. 15

Shintoku, Hokkaido

www.sahoro.co.jp 9:00 - 18:00 (15:00 - 18:00)

Adults Kids

1 DAY TICKET

¥5,000 ¥4,000

Park

Sahoro is a well-run resort that caters to families. There are 17 nicely groomed courses, some “semi-backcountry,” a cross-country course and a terrain park. Like Tomamu, it’s a place where you can have fun whether you are a skier or not, with lots of activities. Two all-inclusive hotels service Sahoro Resort: The Sahoro Resort Hotel, an attractive luxury hotel, and the Club Med Sahoro. English ski lessons are available and lots of organized fun for the whole family. Sahoro is not for the budget traveler, but makes for a great family getaway.

ACCESS

By Train: 94 minutes from New Chitose Airport to Shintoku Station Beginner Intermediate Lifts Gondola By car: 200 min. from Sapporo to Shimukappu I.C.

30% 1 2 Beginner Lifts

30% 1 2

Advanced

HOSHINO RESORTS TOMAMU (0167) 58-1111 Dec. 1 - Apr. 3

40% 2 1

Adults Kids

1 DAY TICKET

¥5,400 ¥3,800

30% 1

SNOWBOARD WITH THE LOCALS Nagano ◊ Niseko Alaska ◊ USA ◊ Canada

Park

By Train: 90 minutes from New Chitose Airport to TomamuBeginner StationIntermediate Lifts Gondola By Car: 100 minutes from New Chitose Airport

25% 1

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

25% 1

Advanced

courses

30% 1

Longest Course: 3,000m Top Elevation: 1,030m Base Elevation: 420m

Longest Course: 3,000m Top Elevation: 1,030m courses Base Elevation: 420m

FURANO RESORT

Advanced

45% 3

courses

30% 2

www.cloudlinetours.com

45% 3

30% 2

Longest Course: 4,200m Top Elevation: 1,171m Base Elevation: 597m

Furano, Hokkaido Adults Kids

1 DAY TICKET

¥4,000 FREE

Park

Central Hokkaido's Furano Resort is known for blue skies, yet manages nearly nine meters of snow each year. There are two sides to the mountain, serviced by a 101-person cable car (Japan’s fastest). The nearby Tokachi Range is a popular backcountry playground. The ski-in/skiout New Furano Prince Hotel has a new hot springs facility. Join the Host Program and get a tour from a local or a bus tour from January to March to Lake Shikarebetsu’s ice village and bathe in ice bathhouses or enjoy a drink at the ice bar built on the frozen lake.

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

25% 1

Bus or car access is recommended: 60 minutes from Asahikawa Airport toAdvanced 15 Beginner Intermediate courses Furano Station Lifts Gondola

KAMUI SKI LINKS

Advanced

45% 3

40% 1 5

courses

40% 1

20% 2

Longest Course: 4,000m Top Elevation: 1,209m Base Elevation: 245m

30% 2

Longest Course: 4,200m Top Elevation: 1,171m Base Elevation: 597m

Asahikawa, Hokkaido

(0166) 72-2311 www.kamui-skilinks.com Dec. 1 - Mar. 31 9:00 - 17:00

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥3,100 ¥1,500

Park

Kamui Ski Links is a resort run “by skiers, for skiers.” Those who enjoy powder and tree skiing will understand why this little resort 20 kilometers outside of Asahikawa has so many admirers. Management has no restrictions on tree skiing and has even left several courses in which to play ungroomed. On top of that, the snow quality is excellent. You may find yourself in some short lines for the lifts on weekends, but on weekdays it is nothing but fresh lines down the hill. Be sure to warm up by the fireplace at Café 751 at the top of the gondola.

20% 1

Bus or car access is recommended: About 25 minutes from downtown Beginner Intermediate Lifts Gondola Asahikawa on Route 12

Advanced

40% 7

40%

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

20% 1

Advanced

40% 7

40%

Park

ACCESS

courses

Shimukappu, Hokkaido

www.snowtomamu.jp 9:00 - 19:00 (16:00 - 19:00)

(0167) 22-1111 www.princehotels.co.jp/newfurano Nov. 22 - May 6 8:30 - 19:30 (17:00 - 19:30)

ACCESS

Advanced

Tomamu has excellent facilities and a beautiful location. Many courses are suited for beginners, yet a challenging double black diamond course and cat-ski tours will challenge advanced riders. Tomamu is a destination in itself with a plethora of ways to entertain the whole family. There’s a good selection of restaurants, an indoor wave pool, Kids Park, ice village and a variety of spa and relaxation options. The resort has also expanded the Family Adventure area and connected the two mountains (no more walking).

ACCESS

Intermediate Gondola

40% 2 1

courses

Longest Course: 4,000m Top Elevation: 750m Base Elevation: 150m

More information online at www.outdoorjapan.com/snow WINTER 2018

courses

Longest Course: 4,000m Top Elevation: 750m Base Elevation: 150m

Niseko Hanazono Resort

Niseko Annupuri

S E T O N L E V T RA HOKKAIDO

Tomamu Resort

Japan’s first ski-in, ski-out village (built on piste) is now open. Tomamu Resort’s Hotaru Street features fashionable cafés and bars where you can enjoy a hearty Italian, Japanese or steak meal and then shop for high performance snow wear at the Fullmarks store. For a truly Arctic experience, head over to Ice Village for drinks at Bar Icewood before checking into the luxurious Ice Hotel—complete with furniture made of ice, an outdoor bath and a whiskey cellar. Then step out for some fun on the ice rink and the ice slide. Take the gondola up 1,088 meters to Muhyo Terrace, for a magnificent view of the slopes while muhyo (crystalized fog) drifts through the air. The terrace serves delicious hot rum, coffee and fondant chocolate and is open from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Niseko Hanazono Resort’s Hanazono Banked Slalom is an exciting race with more than 100 local and international contestants of all ages (last year’s youngest rider was 7 years old!). On Mar. 18, the upper half of Hanazono Terrain Park will be the main stage for the competition. Each competitor has to run two timed trials. On the following weekend, three big kickers will be built on the lower half of the park for the Hanazono Slope Style (Mar. 25). Online and walk-in registration available. The resort will also celebrate Chinese New Year with festive traditional taiko drumming and lion dance on Feb. 16. Every day offers a different special during Niseko Annupuri Week (Mar. 12-18). Special lunch services, treasure hunts, traditional sweet potato digging, discounted lift rates and free hot cocoa at the top of the gondola—and fireworks on Mar. 17! If you want to try your hand at traditional calligraphy, there will be a shodo workshop on Mar. 7.

TRAVELER

Feel like you’re at the North Pole at Rusutsu’s Reindeer Stardust Avenue. Experience a festive reindeer sleigh ride in front of the hotel and take photographs with two adorable reindeer. The ski resort has also increased its First Tracks dates to Jan. 1-8, 14, 21 and 28 and Feb. 4, 11, 18 and 25 from 8:15 a.m. Skiers can now enjoy first tracks from the top of Mt. Isola before the rest of the ski area opens. Reservation required (e-mail info@rusutsu.co.jp).

TOHOKU Ski first tracks every day at Alts Bandai for just ¥1,000! From Dec. 23-Mar. 25 the resort will start its lifts early: 8:30 a.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. on weekends and public holidays. APPI Resort gets a facelift this season with renovated rooms, restaurant, tea lounge, bar and expanded rotenburo (outdoor bath). There’s also a new café overlooking the slopes from the mountaintop. The resort will hold its popular annual festivals including the Jazzy Sport Concert (Jan. 13), the Spring Festival (Feb. 10-18) and the magical Hachimantai Appi Snow Festival (Feb. 10-28).

Rusutsu

Appi Resort

Joetsu Kokusai

NASPA New Otani

Joetsu Kokusai

a banked slalom contest and the annual Jokoku Winter Carnival. This festive winter celebration features sake, fireworks and taimatsu kasso — a performance of skiers riding with torches. Younger children may enjoy snow rafting on Feb. 10.

NIIGATA It’s been more than a decade since Arai has been open. The Lotte Arai makes a comeback this season with the opening of the brand-new, world-class resort. Formerly known as Arai Mountain Resort and Spa, this Myoko resort features five ski lifts and an impressive 951-meter vertical descent. The terrain is located in a bowl, so you can hike from the top of the gondola or enjoy a 1,101-meter descent from Mt. Ogenashi and Mt. Kogenashi. With the longest course measuring up to 5,200 meters and four advanced powder areas, the slopes are best suited to intermediate riders. The resort is close to the Sea of Japan and receives an average of 15 meters snowfall! After a day on the slopes relax in one of 250 rooms. The resort also boasts, extensive spa and onsen facilities, a variety of restaurants, retail shops, an international snow school and alpine activities. You can also snow tube, go indoor bouldering or “fly” over the snow on Japan’s longest zipline which operates year round.

The concept of surfing on snow has been around for years, but Canadian brand Slopedeck Snowskates takes that to the next level using specially patented Morphteck Bases. Using an offset narrow base coupled with CNC machined arced grooves, Slopedeck will be launching in Japan for the first time this season. Test riding sessions will be held on Jan. 8, Feb. 12, Mar. 11 and 18 at Matsunoyama Onsen Ski Resort (Tokamachi City, Niigata) and Apr. 7-8 at Rokko Snow Park (Kobe City, Hyogo). Rentals are also available at these two resorts. To purchase in Tokyo, call (03) 3291-0802 or visit their showroom in Kanda.

NASPA Ski Garden celebrates its 25 th anniversary with a slew of promotions including special discounted lift ticket rates for 18 to 24-year-olds and first track runs on Jan. 8 and Feb. 12. The resort has also renewed its rental facilities and increased their gear and wear rental line-up, which includes premium Ice Peak wear. Stretch those muscles at Joetsu Kokusai’s yoga sessions on the slopes on Jan. 27-28, Feb. 24-25 and Mar. 24-25. For more fast-paced activities, participate in the Snow Undoukai on Feb. 3 and Mar. 10. Games include traditional (and hilarious) Japanese exercise games including dekapan racing, a twist on the three-legged race where you share one pair of giant shorts with your running partner, scavenger hunts, obstacle courses and tug-o-war. Also held on Mar. 10 are Slopedeck Snowskates WINTER 2018

Minakami Okutone

NAGANO Experience Shinshu countryside’s luxurious hot springs at the brand-new KAI Alps, a modern ryokan establishment in Omachi close to Hakuba Ski Resort. Enjoy a spectacular view of the Japanese Alps and snow melting into the river as you stay in traditional rooms furnished with a sunken kotatsu (low heated table) and rustic Shinshustyle fireplace. Hakuba is just a half-hour drive away. During the green season, the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is a popular hiking destination and is a 20-minute drive away.

KAI Alps

GUNMA The annual Minakami Vibes at Tenjindaira Tanigawadake is a must for snow junkies. Attracting riders, snowboarders, winter sports m a n u fa c t u re r s a n d b ra n d s , t h i s t wo - d ay freeriding event held every April features testride sessions where you can sample new models or check out vintage ski gear before heading to the after party. The resort will also hold a banked slalom contest in March. Dates to be announced at www.tanigawadake-rw.com.

Tenjindaira

Ride from sunrise to midnight at Minakami Okutone. Slopes are open until midnight on Friday, Saturday and public holidays and start at 6 a.m. on weekends and public holidays—perfect for people heading to the mountains after work. Every Tuesdays is Ladies’ Day—discounted tickets for ¥3,000. Warm up with complementary coffee served every weekday at 11 a.m. at the renewed Okutone Gatehouse.

GIFU Dynaland Night Skiing runs every evening from 6-11 p.m. To add to the fun, this year they are offering a beginner course, a bar right on the slopes and a bonfire—open from 6-11 p.m. until Mar. 17. If you’re more of a morning person, enjoy sunrise skiing.. Open from 5 a.m. on weekends and public holidays between Dec. 23-Mar. 18. Fireworks will also be held on Jan. 13 and 27 and Feb. 10 and 24.

Dynaland

TRAVELER

KAI Alps

Tsugaike Kogen

www.japansnowguide.com

s e r u t n e v d Winter A Every season is a new adventure! Japan is a winter wonderland with bottomless powder and hundreds of mountain resorts to explore. Discover some exciting winter tours on Outdoor Japan Adventures.

Traditional Culinary and Cultural Adventures

Hanazono Winter Fun

Niigata Ski Camps for Kids

Lay down some fresh tracks with friends on your private ski field. Niseko Hanazono Resort’s Niseko Weiss Powder Cats take guests on private full-day powder tours with six to seven runs per tour on average. The steepest run is about 30 degrees with a maximum vertical descent at 450 meters. Though the amount and quality of snow is magnificent, the altitude is not too high. The CAT base where the tour begins is located 450 meters above sea level and the drop-off peak is 930 meters above sea level. Explore the Hanazono forest at a slower pace by joining a Snowshoe Tour. Groups of no more than eight persons snowshoe among majestic trees, glittering snow and elusive wildlife on this hour-long tour.

The private Tsunan Ski Slope is run by English Adventure and not open to the public, making it the perfect place for cozy winter camps for kids of all skiing levels. Providing 100% English-only camp experiences in the mountains of Niigata, English Adventure hosts four-day ski camps for elementary and middle school students. The camp’s private lodge is located right next to the piste, so your kids can start skiing moments after they arrive. After a full day on the slopes, kids can enjoy night sledding, campfires and marshmallow roasting. Tours include lodging, meals, activity fees, insurance, ski lessons and round-trip transportation from Tokyo.

Backcountry Powder in Hokkaido

Experience authentic Japan with the help of Arigato Food Tours. Tokyo’s old district of Yanaka Ginza was one of the few areas that survived the Great Kanto Earthquake and Fire of 1923 and bombings during World War II. Stroll the shitamachi (downtown) filled with rustic cafes, local temples and traditional craft stores, enjoying street snacks, a tea ceremony and delicious teishoku (lunch set) along the way. If you’re in Kyoto, visit the nearly 400-yearold Gekkeikan Okvura sake museum. The Kyoto tour includes a three-hour tour of Kyoto’s Fushimi District, visits to two breweries, a guided museum tour, traditional lunch and sake tasting. For matcha lovers, the quieter Uji District, home to some of Japan’s finest green tea, is a must. The three-hour tour includes a walk around Uji, lunch, a visit to the outer grounds of Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and of course a tea ceremony.

s.com anadventure p a rj o o td u www.o

Black Diamond Tours blends deep powder skiing with a rich cultural experiences. The Shimamaki Cat Skiing Tour heads to the top of Mt. Karina (1,520 meters) from where guests ride 4,000 vertical meters of powder on average and stay in the sleepy coastal village of Shimamaki, located just two hours from Niseko. Famous for abundant seafood and trophy salmon fishing, Shimamaki features rustic hot spring lodges at Motta Onsen and Chihasegawa Onsen. No trip to Niseko is complete without climbing Mt. Yotei, which dominates the Niseko Valley landscape. Sometimes windy and icy, Mt. Yotei is a rewarding experience for advanced skiers. The skin up takes between five to eight hours. As long-time locals, Black Diamond Tours has access to hidden backcountry stashes you won’t find on your own. Enjoy lift-assisted backcountry guided trips to Niseko Back Bowls. During strong wind conditions, locations may change to Rusutsu, Kiroro or Moiwa for gladed powder skiing. Avalanche safety equipment included. WINTER 2018

TOHOKU Hakkoda Ropeway Tazawako

Appi Kogen

he Tohoku Region represents about 35 percent of the area of Japan’s main island, Honshu. Running north-south through the center of Tohoku are the Gran Deco

Ou Mountains, ranging between 1,500-2,000 meters. When the famous poet,

Photo courtesy of JapowTours.com

Hachimantai Resort

Miyagi Eboshi

Alts Bandai

Matsuo Basho, wrote The Narrow Road to the Deep North (Oku no Hosomichi),

Yamagata Zao

these were the mountains toward which he walked. Today they are full of some of Japan’s least crowded ski resorts. Tohoku may seem far away, but it’s only two-to-four hours by bullet train or you can jump on a domestic flight. Regardless, it’s never too far to go to find good snow.

HAKKODA ROPEWAY

Hakkoda, Aomori

(017) 738-0343 www.hakkoda-ropeway.jp 9:00 - 15:20 Middle of Dec. - Beginning of May Adults

1 DAY TICKET

Kids

5 Times (on Ropeway) ¥5,050 ¥2,250

APPI KOGEN (0195) 73-6401 Dec. 2 - May 6

Hachimantai, Iwate

http://www.appi-japan.com/ 8:00 - 20:00 (16:00 - 20:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Park

Adults Kids

¥5,400 ¥3,100

Park

Tour Route Area Tour Route Area

Park

The eight peaks of Hakkoda attract Japan's most devoted powder lovers. It is basically backcountry with a Beginner Intermediate Advanced Lifts Gondola 100-person gondola that takes 10 minutes to the top with four trips every hour. Once you get off, you can choose from 60% 20% 20% "Direct" or "Forest" trails. You won't get many blue bird days here, and visibility can be difficult during snowstorms, 1 1 which happen often. So if you are a Hakkoda newbie and want to explore the terrain, it's best to grab a local guide. Hakkoda Sansou, across the parking lot from the gondola, Longest Course: 5,000m is the closest accommodation. Up the road, Sukayu On5 Top Elevation: 1,324m Beginner Intermediate Advanced courses Base Elevation: 660m sen is a mixed hot spring with a 300-year history and a 1,000-person bath. By Bus: 80 minutes from Aomori Station ACCESS By Car: 35 min. from Aomori I.C. and Ishiguri I.C.

HACHIMANTAI RESORT (0195) 78-4111 Dec. 15 - Apr. 1

Hachimantai, Iwate

www.hachimantai.co.jp 8:30 - 20:00

APPI is a giant resort (41K of trails) with a long season (thanks to the many north-facing slopes) plus some great facilities (thanks to bubble era spending). Unlike many resorts in Japan that have relatively short runs, the average course length at APPI is 2,100m; the longest 5,500m. It’s possible to do Appi as a long day-trip from Tokyo but, with two ski-in/ski-out hotels and an annex hotel, which collectively sleep 4,100 guests, why not stay and soak away sore muscles at one of the two natural hot springs after a day on the mountain. Families will appreciate the Kids Park.

ACCESS

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

40% 3

30% 2

courses

Advanced

30% 11

Longest Course: 5,500m Top Elevation: 1,328m Base Elevation: 828m

By Train and Bus: 50 minutes from Morioka Station to APPI. By Car: 15 minutes from Matsuo-Hachimantai I.C. or Ashiro I.C.

TAZAWAKO SKI RESORT

Tazawako, Akita

(0187) 46-2011 www.tazawako-ski.com Dec. 15 - Apr. 8 9:00 - 16:00 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,000 ¥2,800

1 DAY TICKET

Park

Adults Kids

¥4,000 ¥1,000

Park PANORAMA

SHIMOKURA

It’s easy to get confused because there are two Iwate Hachimantai resorts and another in Akita. Iwate’s Hachimantai Resort, is a great family ski destination. Hachimantai Resort covers two main areas, Panorama ski area and the Shimokura ski area. Both are well sheltered from the weather, and Panorama features a huge night skiing area. There are high-speed lifts and mainly beginner or intermediate courses. Beginner

ACCESS

Intermediate

Advanced

When it snows in Tazawako, and it usually does, there is courses deep powder and a good variety of courses to enjoy. When it is not snowing, you are treated to one of the great views of any ski resort in Japan, with Lake Tazawa below providing a 40% 30% 30% stunning backdrop. For this reason, Tazawako is a popular ski resort for people in Tohoku, but the lines are still relatively short 1 1 5 when compared to resorts in other areas of Japan. The lifts run directly from the Tazawako Onsen hotel area. The selection of runs should keep everyone happy; on one side is a beginner Longest Course: 2,700m and intermediate area, and on the other is a more challenging 14 Top Elevation: 1,000m courses Base Elevation: 540m advanced course. Powder lovers won’t want to miss the Komagatake Panoramic Cat Tour. Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

By Train and Bus: Shinkansen from Tokyo to Morioka Station (2 hours , 11 minutes), then about 90 minutes by bus to Hachimantai Resort

ACCESS

Beginner Lifts

30% 2

courses

Intermediate Gondola

30% 4

Advanced

40%

Longest Course: 3,000m Top Elevation: 1,186m Base Elevation: 608m

By Train and Bus: Shinkansen from Tokyo to Tazawako Station (3 hours), then 30 minutes by bus to the ski resort

For more Tohoku information visit OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

Park

EBOSHI RESORT

Zao-machi, Miyagi

(0224) 34-4001 www.eboshi.co.jp Dec. 1 - Apr. 1 9:00 - 22:00 (17:30 - 22:00)

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,500 ¥2,800

Park

Miyagi's Eboshi Resort is on the other side of the mountain from the more famous Yamagata Zao Onsen Ski Resort. It's much quieter, the lift lines are shorter on this side of the track, and the views are fantastic. Although it's a decent sized resort with well laid-out courses and a variety of ways to descend the mountain, it is more geared for beginners or advanced riders, as there is not a lot of challenging terrain. Powder hounds will be salivating on some of the areas outside the lines.

ACCESS

Park

Beginner Lifts

50% 1

YAMAGATA ZAO SKI RESORT www.zao-ski.or.jp 8:30 - 21:00 (17:00 - 21:00)

Advanced

30% 1

courses

20% 6

Longest Course: 4,300m Top Elevation: 1,350m Base Elevation: 650m

10 Beginner Intermediate By Train and Bus: Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shoroishi-Zao Station (1 hour, Advanced 54 courses minutes) then about an hour to the ski resort

(023) 694-9328 Dec. 9 - May 6

Intermediate Gondola

Yamagata-shi, Yamagata 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥5,000 ¥2,500

Ski resorts each have their own personalities; it is one of the joys of exploring new resort areas. Zao Onsen has a big bubbling personality. The town is literally bubbling with hot springs, and the ski resort offers a unique ski experience—skiing among the famous Zao Snow Monsters (juhyo). The resort is big with four gondolas, 35 lifts and a 10K downhill course. Skiers will enjoy the layout more than snowboarders (too much traversing), but the highlight, undoubtedly, is riding among these huge creatures formed of ice and wind. The peak season is February, and the juhyo illumination is spectacular.

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

40% 1 3

Advanced

40% 3 27

courses

20% 5 1

Longest Course: 10,000m

ACCESS

26 Top Elevation: 1,660m By Train and Bus: 2 1/2 hours by bullet train from Tokyo toBeginner Yamagata Station, Intermediate Advanced courses Base Elevation: 780m then 40 minutes by bus to Zao Onsen

HOSHINO RESORTS ALTS BANDAI (0242) 74-5000 www.alts.co.jp Dec. 23 - Mar. 25 8:00-21:00 (17:30-21:00) Night Ski 17:30-21:00

Bandai, Fukushima 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,700 ¥2,000

With 30K of rideable terrain, nearly 30 courses and progressive free-style parks, it is no surprise ALTS is a favorite of many of the top park riders in Japan. The resort is the largest in southern Tohoku and was the home to the Asia Open. This year ALTS features a new Cat Ski area on the west side of the resort where visitors can enjoy some deep turns. Slide into Yama Cafe for a drink or relax in the hotel's great hot springs. ALTS is a south-facing resort, so it’s bright and features some nice terrain for free riding, but powder lovers will want to head next door to northfacing Nekoma.

ACCESS

Beginner By Train: 90 minutes from Tokyo Station to Koriyama Station By Car: 75 minutes from Fukushima International Airport.

Intermediate

(0241) 32-2530 www.grandeco.com Nov. 29 - May. 7 8:30 - 17:00

Park

Beginner Lifts

By train: 45 minutes from Inawashiro Station via local bus. Beginner By car: 35 minutes from Inawashiro Bandai Kogen I.C.

courses

Advanced

40% 2

courses

25% 5

Longest Course: 3,000m Top Elevation: 1,280m Base Elevation: 700m

Aizu Ura Bandai, Fukushima 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,700 ¥3,500

Grandeco Snow Resort is a medium-sized resort with first-rate facilities, which include a gondola and express chairlifts and artificial snow-making capabilities to guarantee early and late-season riding. There is also a luxury hotel and SIA certified Snow Academy. Although the resort is best suited for beginners and intermediate riders, there are tree runs for advanced riders and a well maintained park. Gran Deco is one of the highest resorts in the area, which means good quality snow. The nearby Hotel Gran Deco has western-style rooms, an indoor and outdoor swimming pool (open in winter), Jacuzzis, saunas, hot spring baths, restaurants and bars.

ACCESS

Intermediate Gondola

35% 1 1

Advanced

GRANDECO SNOW RESORT

Park

Intermediate

Advanced

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

40% 1

Advanced

45% 4

15% 2

Longest Course: 4,000m Top Elevation: 1,590m

courses Base Elevation: 1,010m

More information online at www.outdoorjapan.com/snow WINTER 2018

courses

NAGANO Togakushi

agano is the traditional center of the Japan snow scene, and

Hakuba Cortina

at the heart of it is the Japan Alps. The prefecture is home

Nozawa Onsen Madarao

Tsugaike

to some of the finest, steepest and biggest resorts in Japan, and

Hakuba Iwatake

boasts arguably the most breathtaking scenery. Within Nagano,

Hakuba Happo Hakuba Goryu

natural beauty known as the Japan Alps slashing through the prefecture. This area is as much a Mecca for photographers as it is

Yakebitaiyama Shiga Kogen Area Hoppobundaira Higashitateyama Nishitateyama

Hakuba 47

the sheer volume of ski areas is due to the jagged spine of rugged

Okushiga

Norikura Kogen

for skiers, with its many onsen, snow-swept valleys and bristling peaks. Backcountry fun here is limited only to your preparedness and daring. Hakuba, Shiga Kogen, Nozawa and the Iiyama areas are just the tip of the proverbial iceberg.

HAKUBA GORYU

Hakuba, Nagano

(0261) 75-2101 www.hakubagoryu.com/e/index.html Nov. 21 - May 6 8:00 - 22:00 (18:00 - 22:00)

HAKUBA 47

Hakuba, Nagano

(0261) 75-3533 www.hakuba47.co.jp Nov. 23 - May 6 8:00 - 16:20 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,800 ¥2,500

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥5,000 ¥2,700

Park

Hakuba Goryu is not the largest resort in Hakuba, but it Hakuba 47 is a relatively new resort (opened in 1990), is one of the most scenic and pleasant places to ski. Soak and they’ve been trying to take some fresh, progressive Beginner Intermediate Advanced Beginner Intermediate Advanced courses courses Lifts Gondola Lifts Gondola up the view as the Japan Alps soar behind you, and then steps to making a better resort experience. There are loads head down to the Escal Plaza, one of the best base lodges of activities and events, an extensive snow park with lots 40% 25% 35% 40% 30% 30% in Japan. There is a ski/snowboard rental shop, a nice of jibs, kickers and things to launch off, and a great half selection of restaurants and even a bath open until 9 p.m. pipe. The resort also has some excellent intermediate 1 9 1 4 3 1 daily. If you’re on a tight budget, there is a “resting room” courses, a challenging mogul course and a shared ticket where you can wait for the lifts to open. It’s a common 1 with Goryu, so no shortage of courses from which to space that fits up to 100 people (no reservations required). choose. If you were wondering about the name, the goal Longest Course: 5,000m Longest Course: 6,400m Serious skiers can challenge themselves on the Champions of the resort is to offer a great mountain experience “4” 16 Top Elevation: 1,624m 8 Top Elevation: 1,614m Beginner Intermediate Advanced Beginner Intermediate Advanced courses Base Elevation: 950m courses Base Elevation: 820m expert run, and Goryu also shares a common lift pass with seasons and “7” days a week. Hakuba 47. By Train and Shuttle: Shinkansen to Nagano Station and the direct bus to By Train and Bus: Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station (1 ACCESS ACCESS Hakuba. A shuttle service runs between Goryu and Hakuba 47 hour, 45 minutes), then an Alpico Bus to Hakuba (60 minutes) Park

Park

HAKUBA HAPPO-ONE (0261) 72-3066 Dec. 8 - May 7

Hakuba, Nagano

www.happo-one.jp 8:00 - 21:00 (17:00 - 21:00)

HAKUBA IWATAKE SNOW FIELD (0261) 72-2474 Dec. 15 - Apr. 1

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

Hakuba, Nagano

iwatake.jp 8:00 - 17:00

¥5,000 ¥2,500

1 DAY TICKET

Park

Adults Kids

¥4,400 ¥2,600

Park

South Side North Side Happo is a huge resort that is heaven for skiers who If the crowds at Happo are too much for you, head Beginner Intermediate Advanced Beginner Intermediate Advanced enjoy well-groomed, long courses. There are many runs, courses coursesover to nearby Iwatake. The base of the resort looks up at Lifts Gondola Lifts Gondola good challenging terrain and a nice park and the Hakuba Hakuba’s highest peaks for a spectacular view while you Banks Park opens on Feb. 1. Happo hosted the downhill enjoy the slopes. The resort itself is surprisingly big, mak50% 20% 30% 50% 20% 30% races during the 1998 Olympics and, if you want to test ing it a great place to go to get away from the crowds and your meddle, head to the top of the men’s downhill course. explore the 26 courses. It’s mostly beginner and intermedi4 1 1 5 1 1 While advanced riders will love Happo, beginners may get ate runs, but there is a nearly four-kilometer cruiser and a 2 12 1 frustrated with the many narrow paths leading down the small terrain park. Lift lines are relatively short by Hakuba mountain. If you need a break, there are plenty of restaustandards, and you can often find some pockets of powder North Side Longest Course: 8,000m Longest Course: 3,800m rants to stop for a bite. Note the resort’s popularity means here after it has been tracked out at other nearby.Advanced 26 13 Top Elevation: 1,831m Top Elevation: 1,289m Beginner Intermediate Advanced Beginnerresorts Intermediate courses courses Base Elevation: 539m it can get crowded, especially on long weekends. Base Elevation: 760m

ACCESS

By Train and Bus: Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station (1 hour, 45 minutes), then an Alpico Bus to Hakuba (60 minutes)

ACCESS

By Train and Bus: Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station (1 hour, 45 minutes), then an Alpico Bus to Hakuba (60 minutes)

For more Nagano information visit OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

HAKUBA CORTINA SKI RESORT (0261) 82-2236 www.hgp.co.jp Dec. 16 - Apr. 1 8:30 -17:00 (Sun-Fri: 17:00 - 20:00, Sat: 17:00 - 21:00)

Hakuba, Nagano 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥3,600 ¥2,000

If you are looking for a place to spend a quiet, romantic ski weekend in the Hakuba area, head over to Cortina. The massive Green Plaza Hotel with northern European architecture is impressive. If your ski partner is just starting out, the course right outside the door of the hotel is a gentle slope and great for beginners. Although most of the runs are in the beginner to intermediate range, there are some steep courses, and they have adopted a progressive approach to tree skiing and power areas in which guests are responsible for themselves if they get into trouble. The Hakuba Cortina Resort also offers a convenient shuttle from Nagano Station (one-way, 1,000 yen).

ACCESS

Beginner By Train: From Shinjuku to Minami Otari: 4 hours (By Azusa) By Car: 90 minutes from Nagano I.C. to hotel

Intermediate

Park

Beginner Lifts

Advanced

courses

Adults Kids

Beginner Intermediate By Train and Bus: Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station (1 hour, 45 minutes), then a shuttle to Hakuba Cortina (80 minutes)

MT. NORIKURA

30%

Longest Course: 2,025m Top Elevation: 1,402m Base Elevation: 872m

¥4,900 ¥2,800

Park

Advanced

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

30% 1 9

50% 1 1

courses

Advanced

courses

20% 9 2

Longest Course: 4,630m Top Elevation: 1,704m Base Elevation: 800m

NOZAWA

Norikura Kogen Onsen, Nagano

(0263) 93-2645 www.norikura.co.jp Dec. 9 - Apr. 8 8:30 - 16:30

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,100 ¥2,000

The base of Mt. Norikura (not to be confused with the smaller Hakuba Norikura) starts at 1,500 meters, meaning the snow quality is excellent, and you’ll spend more time riding than in lift lines. It is a relatively small, local resort, yet the dedicated locals have created a progressive and challenging terrain park and good facilities for beginners to learn to ride. There is no ATM, so bring cash and make sure to pack chains or have a 4WD, since Norikura is nestled deep in the Northern Alps. After a day on the mountain, don’t miss the great rotenburo at Yukemurikan.

ACCESS

30% 5

courses

Otari, Nagano 1 DAY TICKET

Tsugaike is actually located in Otari Village, just up the road from Hakuba. The resort could be considered one of the most underrated, considering it has some huge bowls, a big gondola, terrain park, cross-country course, good night skiing and some interesting runs. There are even heli-skiing tours in spring and good places to hike to get fresh turns. The Children’s Square is great for kids just starting out on the slopes. Most of Tsugaike’s runs are in the intermediate range, but there are a few expert areas as well. To finish off a great day, head over to Tsuga no Yu hot springs, just 100 meters from the gondola.

ACCESS

Advanced

40% 2

HAKUBA TSUGAIKE KOGEN (0261) 83-2515 www.tsugaike.gr.jp Nov. 23 - May 6 8:00 - 17:00 (8:00 - 20:50 on Sat.)

Intermediate Gondola

Beginner Intermediate By Train: Super Azusa Express train from Shinjuku to Matsumoto (2 hours, 37 minutes. Transfer at Matsumoto, then on to Shin Shimashima (30 minutes)

Advanced

Ski goods,Ski Rental

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

30% 2 1

Advanced

40% 1

courses

30% 5

Longest Course: 5,000m Top Elevation: 2,000m

courses Base Elevation: 1,500m

OPEN 8:00~10:00/15:00~20:00 TEL 0269-67-0224 www.compasshouse.jp

More information online at www.outdoorjapan.com/snow WINTER 2018

SHIGA KOGEN Shiga Kogen, Nagano www.shigakogen-ski.com

Shibutouge

Okushiga Kogen

Terakoya Yokoteyama

Yakebitaiyama Yama no Kami

Ichinose Family

Hoppo Bunadaira, Higashidateyama, Nishidateyama

Tanne no Mori

Diamond

Kumanoyu Giant Hasuike

Kidoike SunValley

Maruike

If you include all 19 interlinked ski resorts, Shiga Kogen in northern Nagano is Japan’s largest ski resort area. Surrounded by 2,000-meter mountains, Shiga has good elevation and is a great place to get in some early or late season runs, as the season stretches from late November to early May. Shiga Kogen hosted the women’s downhill, slalom, the super giant slalom and both snowboarding events for the 1998 Nagano Olympic Winter Games. With more than 80 accommodations scattered around the area, there is no shortage of places to stay, although it has retained an “old school” feel with most restaurants found inside hotels; some serving Shiga Kogen’s excellent microbrew. There are many onsen in the area to soak in after a day on the mountain, yet the most famous in the area is off-limits to humans. Jigokudani Yaen Koen is a sanctuary for resident snow monkeys that lounge in their own hot springs, while visitors snap away with their cameras. Shiga Kogen has limited ATM access (ATM is available at the Shiga Kogen Post Office in the Hasuike area), so bring some cash. Starting this year, a common ski lift pass will be available for Shiga Kogen Resort’s 13 ski areas which are part of the “Shiga Kogen Resort Chuo Area.” These resorts include Sun Valley, Maruike, Hasuike, Giant, Happo Bunahira, Higashi Tateyama, Teragoya, Takamahara Mammoth, Nishi Tateyama, Tanne-no-mori Okojo, Ichinose Family, Ichinose Diamond and Ichinose Yama-no-kami. If you plan to try all the ski areas, you’ll need to give yourself at least a few days to explore the various terrain.

Okushiga Kogen is known as “Skiers Paradise” as it remains a skiers-only resort, (along with Kumanoyu), while Yakebitaiyama is a Prince Resort with excellent facilities. The Hoppo Bunadaira area is great for beginners and families with small children while Higashidateyama is best suited for advanced skiers, although there is a gentle woodland course as well. The resort hosted the men’s and women’s giant slalom in the 1998 Olympic Games, and it boasts an extremely challenging downhill course. The restaurant at the summit of Mt. Higashidate boasts incredible panoramic views and is the starting point to get to other ski areas such as Terakoya.

ACCESS

By Train and Bus: 110 minutes from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station, then bus (70 minutes) to Shiga Kogen resorts

HOPPO BUNADAIRA - HIGASHITATEYAMA - NISHITATEYAMA

(0269) 34-2301 www.facebook.com/ShigaKogen.Ski Mid-Dec. - Beg. of Apr. 8:30 - 16:30 1 DAY TICKET

ACCESS

Adults Kids

¥5,000 ¥2,500

50% 1

40% 4

10% 1

Park

By Train: 110 minutes from Tokyo Stn. to Nagano Stn. By Car: 300 minutes from Tokyo

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

Longest course: 3,500m Top Elevation: 2,030m

courses Base Elevation: 1,325m

YAKEBITAIYAMA (0269) 34-3117 www.princehotels.com/en/ski/shiga_kougen.html Dec. 2 - Apr. 8 8:00 - 16:00 (18:00 - 20:00) 1 DAY TICKET

ACCESS

Adults Kids

¥5,000 ¥2,500

45% 2

35% 2

20% 1

Park Park

By Train: 110 minutes from Tokyo Stn. to Nagano Stn. By Car: 300 minutes from Tokyo

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

Longest Course: 2,500m Top Elevation: 2,000m

courses Base Elevation: 1,550m

OKUSHIGA KOGEN SKI FIELD (0269) 34-2225 www.okushigakogen.com Dec. 20 - May 20 7:30 - 16:30 1 DAY TICKET

ACCESS

Adults Kids

¥5,000 ¥2,500

45% 1

20%

Park

By Train: 110 minutes from Tokyo Stn. to Nagano Stn. By Car: 300 minutes from Tokyo

Beginner Lifts

For more Nagano information visit OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

35% 5

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

Longest Course: 2,200m Top Elevation: 2,000m

courses Base Elevation: 1,460m

MADARAO MOUNTAIN RESORT

Iiyama, Nagano

(0269) 64-3214 www.madarao.jp Dec. 16 - Apr 1 8:30 - 21:00 (17:00 - 21:00)

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,500 ¥1,500

Located in northeastern Nagano just above Iiyama Town, Madarao Kogen features 16 lifts and 22 courses across a bowl-shaped terrain on Mt. Madarao (1,382 meters). The resort has a nice variety of courses, groomers, a tree run area, free ride park, wave courses and kids park, and the resort is free to kids under 12. They claim 60 percent of the course is ungroomed so, if you like riding powder, there should be plenty in which to play. There is also a joint ticket available for Tangram Ski Circus, a small, pretty resort. Backcountry tours can be arranged through the resort.

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

29 By Train and Bus: Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano CityBeginner (1 hour,Intermediate 28 minutes) Advanced courses Lifts Gondola then by bus to Tangram Madarao

TANGRAM SKI CIRCUS

Advanced

40% 3

30% 2 1

Park

ACCESS

30% 2 1

TANGRAM SKI CIRCUS

courses

40% 3

30% 5

Longest Course: 2,500m Top Elevation: 1,350m Base Elevation: 440m

30% 5

Longest Course: 2,500m Top Elevation: 1,350m Base Elevation: 440m

Madarao, Nagano

(026) 258-3511 www.tangram.jp/foreign/english.html 8: 30 - 16: 30 (17:30 - 20:30) Dec. 16 - Apr 1

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,200 ¥3,200

Tangram Ski Circus sounds like a great place for kids—and it is. The ski-in/out Hotel Tangram sits right at the bottom of this family-friendly resort. Facilities include hot spring baths and a heated indoor swimming pool. The resort features 14 courses on the northwest side of Mt. Madarao, with well-groomed runs, great for mom and dad to get in some leg burners with the kids. The trees look tempting, but beware the ski patrol is vigilant here. However the resort is connected to Madarao Kogen, giving you 30 courses to explore if you get bored with the runs right outside your door.

Park

30% 2 1

MADARAO MOUNTAIN RESORT Park

Beginner Lifts

30% 2

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

40% 3

30% 1

courses

40% 3

30% 5

Longest Course: 2,500m Top Elevation: 1,350m Base Elevation: 440m

Longest Course: 2,500m

ACCESS

14 Top Elevation: 1,320m By Train and Bus: Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano City (1 hour, 28 minutes) Beginner Intermediate Advanced courses Base Elevation: 800m Lifts Gondola then by bus to Tangram Madarao

TOGAKUSHI

Togakushi, Nagano

(026) 254-2106 www.togakusi.com Dec. 16 - Apr. 1 8:30 - 16:30

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,000 ¥2,500

Togakushi is an interesting, medium-sized resort. The name “Togakushi” means “hidden door,” it derived from the Japanese myth and the resort is owned by Nagano City, yet it is still relatively unknown to people outside the area. The best way to describe Togakushi is pleasant. The conditions always seem to be pretty good, course is variegated and there are often great powder days. Best of all, it never seems to get as busy as the more popular Nagano resorts, and it has retained a very local feel. Togakushi Village is in itself an interesting place. It is famous for soba, and there are some beautiful shrines, temples and onsen nearby to finish off a great day on the mountain.

30% 2 Park

Beginner Lifts

By Train and Bus: Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station Beginner Intermediate (1 hour, 30 minutes), then less than 1 hour to Togakushi byLifts bus Gondola

Advanced

NOZAWA ONSEN

Intermediate Gondola

30% 2

Park

ACCESS

Park

Advanced

40% 5

30%

Longest Course: 3,000m Top Elevation: 1,750m

courses Base Elevation: 1,200m

30%

Longest Course: 3,000m Top Elevation: 1,750m

courses Base Elevation: 1,200m Nozawa Onsen, Nagano

(0269) 85-3166 www.nozawaski.com Nov. 25 - May 6 8:30 - 17:00 (16:30 - 20:00)

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,800 ¥2,200

If you’re looking for the quintessential Japanese ski experience, Nozawa Onsen is hard to beat. This traditional hot spring village sits at the base of a great mountain (Mt. Kenashi, 1,650m). The resort is one of the oldest ski grounds in Japan, getting consistent snowfall. There are two gondolas and a large selection of courses to choose from. The town also features 30 hot springs scattered around the village (including 13 free baths in town) and the Dosojin Matsuri (Fire Festival) held on Jan. 15, which is a spectacle to behold.

Park

40% 2 10

Park

Beginner Lifts

40% 2 10

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

30% 5 1

40% 3 1

Longest Course: 10,000m By Train: Tokyo Station to Nagano Station by Shinkansen (109 minutes), then Iiyama 36 Top Elevation: 1,650m Intermediate Advanced Line to Togari-Nozawa Onsen St. (60 minutes) and taxi or shuttleBeginner bus to Nozawa courses Base Elevation: 565m Lifts Gondola Onsen. By Car: 75 minutes from Nagano Station Park

ACCESS

40% 5

More information online at www.outdoorjapan.com/snow WINTER 2018

courses

30% 5 1

40% 3 1

Longest Course: 10,000m Top Elevation: 1,650m Base Elevation: 565m

NIIGATA O

ne day in 1986, the good people of Joetsu, a coastal city in Niigata, were deluged by 232 centimeters of snow—in one

day. That’s roughly enough to bury a one-story building. Although this sort of thing doesn’t happen every day, Niigata gets some of

Joetsu Kokusai NASPA Ski Garden

the heaviest snowfalls in Japan. The town of Yuzawa was where Yasunari Kawabata penned his award-winning novel “Snow

GALA Yuzawa

Iwappara

Country” (Yukiguni). It is also Niigata’s most popular of winter sports Charmant Hiuchi

areas, due to the easy access from Tokyo (77 minutes) and the variety of ski resorts a snowball’s throw from the station. Just over the

Seki Onsen

border from Nagano Prefecture, in the southeastern part of Niigata,

Akakura

the Myoko Kogen area is one of Japan’s best-kept secrets. This scenic, mountainous area stretches all the way to the Sea of Japan

Myoko Suginohara

coast and features some great resorts in its own right.

Kagura Tashiro Mitsumata

GALA YUZAWA SNOW RESORT

Naeba

YUZAWA KOGEN Bi# C6:76 @6<JG6 B>IHJB6I6

GALA YUZAWA STATION

NUNOBA NUNOBA FAMILY IPPONSUGI SKI RESORT

Bi# C6:76 @6<JG6 I6H=>GD

:8=><D NJO6L6 HI6I>DC

NASPA SKI GARDEN

IWA-PPARA WINTER RESORT

KANDATSU KOGEN LUDENS YUZAWA SKI

YUZAWA PARK SKI YUZAWA NAKAZATO KAYAMA CAPTAIN COAST NAKAZATO SNOW WOOD Mt. NAEBA

Bi# C6:76 H=>G6@676 Bi# C6:76 6H6<6>

GONDOLA ROPEWAY

MT. NAEBA

Yuzawa, Niigata

(0257) 89-2211 http://www.princehotels.com/en/ski/naeba/index.html Dec. 9 - May 6 (Closed Apr. 9 - Apr. 27) 8:00 - 17:00 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

KAGURA - TASHIRO - MITSUMATA

Yuzawa, Niigata

(0257) 88-9221 www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/kagura Nov. 23 - May 27 8:00 - 17:00

¥5,700 FREE

1 DAY TICKET

Park

Adults Kids

¥4,700 ¥3,800

Park

Kagura Area Park

To Naeba

Tashiro Area

To Naeba These three connecting ski areas form one big resort. If Mt. Naeba calls itself "The Station Moritz of the East" and you count Naeba, the total rideable area is 368 hectares. From is a popular choice for Kanto trendsetters wishing to get away Beginner Intermediate Advanced Beginner Intermediate Advanced courses coursesNaeba, you’ll be lifted above Lake Tashiro to wider and less Lifts Gondola for a convenient ski weekend. The crescent-shaped Prince Lifts Gondola crowded slopes and better snow quality, but the area closes at Hotel cuts an imposing figure at the base of this classic ski-in/ 35% 20% 45% 40% 30% 30% 4 p.m. and the lift line back to Naeba can be long, so beware. A ski-out resort and features all the trappings you would expect better option is to access the Tashiro Ropeway on Route 17. You from a Prince-managed resort hotel. Off the mountain, there are 14 3 5 3 5 5 can then traverse across Tashiro in about 40 minutes to Kagura, children’s services, hot springs and other amenities and, on the a popular backcountry zone and a great option for early and late mountain, a terrain park, kids park, family snow park and more. 1 season skiing. The Mitsumata area has a small boarder's park, Naeba is connected to Kagura, Tashiro, and Mitsumata ski Longest Course: 6,000m Longest Course: 4,000m a few jumps and two good slopes for learning. Accessible by areas via the "Dragondola," which travels 5.5 kilometers in just 23 Top Elevation: 1,845m 22 Top Elevation: 1,789m Intermediate Advanced the Mitsumata Ropeway on Route 17. Beginner Intermediate Advanced courses 15 minutes, so there are 44 trails exploreBeginner if you have the time. courses Base Elevation: 900m Base Elevation: 620m Park

ACCESS

By Train and Free Shuttle: Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo to Echigo Yuzawa Station (77 minutes) then free shuttle bus for staying guests to Naeba Resort (50 minutes)

ACCESS

By Train and Shuttle Bus: Take the Joetsu Shinkansen to Echigo Yuzawa Station (77 minutes) then shuttle bus to the resort (approx. 30 minutes)

For more Niigata information visit OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

GALA YUZAWA SNOW RESORT (0257) 85-6543 Dec. 16 - May 6

Yuzawa, Niigata

www.galaresort.jp/winter/english 8:00 - 17:00

Adults Kids

1 DAY TICKET

¥4,600 ¥2,300

Park

If you want a quick, convenient day-trip from Tokyo, you can’t get any easier than GALA Yuzawa. The ski resort has its very own bullet train and train station that doubles as the ski lodge. The amazing efficiency means you won’t be alone on the hill. However, get up to the mountain, get in a few runs with friends and be back in time to buy your favorite designer goods in Harajuku. The resort is geared toward recreation and families with kids, but it does connect to other resorts, so there are more options for serious skiers. And if you just want to have fun in the snow for a day with friends, you can’t beat the convenience.

Park

Beginner Lifts

By Train: 77 minutes from Tokyo Station to GALA Yuzawa Beginner Station Intermediate Gondola By Car: 5 minutes from Yuzawa I.C. (Kanetsu Expressway)Lifts

Advanced Descent Course

courses

IWAPPARA 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,000 ¥2,500

Although Iwappara looks like a relic of Japan’s bubble era, with big pink apartments along the course, it is still one of the more popular resorts in the Yuzawa area. It’s super convenient from the station (10 minutes) by shuttle bus, so it is quite possible to do a day trip from Tokyo. The main course is very wide open, making it a great place for beginners to practice their turns without fear of being run over by a speedy skier (or vice versa). The views from the top are nice, and the village area around the ski area has a nice selection of restaurants.

Longest Course: 2,500m Top Elevation: 1,181m Base Elevation: 358m

25% 3

Park

40% 2

Beginner Lifts

40% 2

NASPA SKI GARDEN ¥4,200 ¥3,200

40% 7

20%

courses

Longest Course: 4,000m Top Elevation: 985m Base Elevation: 400m

JOETSU KOKUSAI SKI RESORT

38% 2

Park

Beginner Lifts

38% 2

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

37% 1

25% 2

37% 1

25% 2

Longest Course: 2.2km Top Elevation: 690m Base Elevation: 430m

courses

Longest Course: 2.2km Top Elevation: 690m Base Elevation: 430m

8 Beginner Station Intermediate By Train and Free Shuttle Bus: Joetsu Shinkansen to Echigo Yuzawa (77 Advanced courses Lifts Gondola minutes) then free shuttle bus to NASPA Ski Garden (5 minutes)

Minamiuonuma, Niigata Adults Kids

1 DAY TICKET

¥4,000 ¥2,500

To the north of Yuzawa Town is a 634-room, Europeanstyle hotel that anchors the Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort. The runs are relatively short here, but there is a long 6K trail and a 38-degree “Daibetto Slope” that will challenge anyone’s courage. The resort also has an extensive terrain park and two half-pipes; one used for the World Cup, and regularly hosts events such as the Nippon Freeskiing Competition. It’s also a great place for kids featuring the Kids Paradise areas with snow tubing and air slides, Sori Land (Sled Land), the Sponge Bob Kids Park and a “day nursery.”

Park

30% 3 Park

Beginner Lifts

30% 3

Park

By Train and Bus: Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo to minutes) then train to Joetsu Kokusai (15 minutes)

Advanced

20%

Park

(025) 782-1028 www.jkokusai.co.jp Dec. 9 - Apr. 8 8:00 - 21:00 (17:00 - 21:00)

Intermediate Gondola

40% 7

Yuzawa, Niigata Adults Kids

1 DAY TICKET

NASPA is a relatively new ski resort (opened in 1992) whose claim to fame is being one of the last skiers-only resorts left in Japan. The ski hill is behind the deluxe New Otani Hotel. The resort definitely caters toward families who ski and want to stay in luxury. Guests can enjoy the excellent hot springs, Jacuzzis, a swimming pool, fitness center and a selection of restaurants. Its location near the station makes for a quick, convenient ski weekend from Tokyo, if you want to get in a few turns (on skis) with the family.

ACCESS

25% 3

Longest Course: 2,500m Top Elevation: 1,181m Base Elevation: 358m

20 By Train and Shuttle Bus: 77 minutes from Tokyo Station toBeginner EchigoIntermediate Yuzawa Advanced courses Lifts Gondola Station then shuttle bus from Echigo Yuzawa Station (10 minutes)

(025) 780-6888 www.naspaskigarden.com Dec. 22 - Apr. 1 8:30 - 17:00

ACCESS

40% 1 4

courses

40% 1 4

Yuzawa, Niigata

(025) 787-3211 www.iwa-ppara.com Dec. 9 - Apr. 8 8:00 - 20:00 (17:00 - 20:00) (Saturdays: 8:00 - 21:00)

ACCESS

Intermediate Advanced Descent Course Gondola

35% 1 2

Park

ACCESS

35% 1 2

Intermediate Advanced EchigoBeginner Yuzawa Station (77 Lifts Gondola

courses

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

50% 4

20% 18

Longest Course: 6,000m Top Elevation: 1,017m Base Elevation: 200m

More information online at www.outdoorjapan.com/snow WINTER 2018

courses

50% 4

20% 18

Longest Course: 6,000m Top Elevation: 1,017m Base Elevation: 200m

MYOKO SUGINOHARA (0255) 86-6211 www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/myoko Dec. 23 - Apr. 1 8:30 - 16:30

Myoko, Niigata 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,500 ¥3,900

Myoko Kogen is simply one of the naturally prettiest ski areas in Japan. Suginohara is part of the Prince Resorts family (although there is no hotel here), and the facilities are well maintained. The runs above the gondola are where advanced skiers and powder hounds will have the most fun, and there are English backcountry guides available. The resort has 16 trails, a terrain park, kids sledding area (ask about kids skiing free), hot springs and six on-hill restaurants. Suginohara also boasts Japan’s longest top-to-bottom, an 8.5-kilometer thigh burner that will test anyone’s meddle if left for the last run of the day. The stunning view of Lake Nojiri below from the gondola makes it worth the trip alone.

ACCESS

By Train: 120 minutes from Tokyo Station to Myoko Kogen Beginner Station Intermediate By Car: 160 minutes from Tokyo

Advanced

AKAKURA ONSEN (0255) 87-2125 Dec. 16 - Apr. 8

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

40% 2

20% 2

40% 1

courses

Longest Course: 8,500m Top Elevation: 1,855m Base Elevation: 731m

courses

Akakura Onsen, Niigata

www.akakura-ski.com 8:30 - 22:00 (17:00 - 22:00)

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,200 ¥3,000

Akakura Ski Resort is located at the bottom of Mt. Myoko and is the largest resort in the Myoko Heights area. The resort has a nice variety of courses as well as powder stashes and some challenging courses on the old “Champions” side of the mountain. The town’s hot springs date back to 1814, and there is no better way to finish off a day on the mountain. The Akakura Resort & Spa sits majestically on the slopes. It’s a great place to stay if you want ski in/ski out luxury. The area averages about 13 meters of snow annually, so there is plenty of fluffy stuff, and it has a pleasant natural beauty. Akakura has a nice variety of courses, but the most challenging runs are on the old “Champions” side of the mountain.

ACCESS

Park

By Train: Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station (1 hr.,Beginner 45 min.),Intermediate then take Advanced the JR Shinetsu Honsen Line to Myoko Kogen Station, then 10 minutes by bus

SEKI ONSEN

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

30% 4

50% 2

20% 9

A little-known place awesome for Longest Course: 3,000m 20 Top Elevation: 1,200m courses Base Elevation: 650m

Seki Onsen, Niigata

(0255) 82-2316 www.sekionsen.com End of Dec. - Beginning of May 9:00 - 17:00

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,000 ¥3,000

Seki is the highest ski area in the Myoko Kogen area and, even though there are just two lifts, there is access to many powder runs. This is a locals mountain, and they check the weather reports and know when the storms will hit, sometimes dropping one or two meters of new snow overnight. It pays to get up early if you want first tracks. Don’t expect groomers; this is natural terrain and free riding at its finest: tree runs, natural pipes and some good hits.

courses

Park

Skiing & Snowboarding

MINAKAMI GUNMA Alpine Lodge Ski & Snowboard Lessons Backcountry tours Snowshoe tours

Park

Beginner Lifts

20% 1

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

30% 1

50%

courses

Longest Course: 1,600m

ACCESS

6 Top Elevation: 1,620m Intermediate By Train: Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station (1Beginner hr., 45 min.), then Advanced courses Base Elevation: 1,000m take the JR Shinetsu Honsen Line to Sekiyama Station, then 20 min. by taxi

CHARMANT HIUCHI (025) 568-2244 http://charmant-hiuchi.jp Dec. 22 - May 5 8:30 - 16:30

Adults Kids

¥4,000 ¥3,000

Charmant is a locally owned and operated ski resort most of your friends do not know about but may wish they did. The resort is literally right on the Japan Sea (you can see it from the top lifts) and gets some of the heaviest snow dumps around. It is also a healthy drive from Tokyo (four hours), but is worth the trip if you enjoy short lift lines and uncrowded slopes. There are lots of ungroomed areas and advanced terrain including a 1,000-meter powder course. The proximity to the sea means there is some excellent seafood nearby as well, and you can ski straight through Golden Week.

ACCESS

+81-278-72-2811

Itoigawa, Niigata 1 DAY TICKET

Beginner Intermediate Car access is recommended: Train and bus service is inconvenient. From Tokyo it takes 4 hours by car, depending on traffic and weather

Advanced

www.canyons.jp

Park

Beginner Lifts

20% 1

courses

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

45% 2

35%

courses

English Ski & Snowboard Lessons Snowshoe tour

Longest Course: 2,700m Top Elevation: 1,009m Base Elevation: 501m

+81-80-9083-2179

For more Niigata information visit OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com) WINTER 2018

www.canyons.jp

GUNMA

Okutone Snow Park

Kawaba

Minakami Houdaigi

Tenjindaira Tanigawadake

Oze Iwakura

Norn Minakami Manza Onsen Kusatsu Kokusai

hile neighboring Niigata gets most of the attention, Gunma quietly has some great snow resorts of its own. Located in northeast Gunma near the border with Niigata, Minakami

has 10 ski resorts and is just 90 minutes from Tokyo. Oze Katashina is another quality area that flies under the radar. Katashina Town lies in the shadows of mighty Mt. Hotaka and Mt. Shirane and features nearby resorts such as the popular Oze Iwakura, Hotaka Bokujo, a boarder’s park, and Oguna Hotaka, a nice mid-sized resort. Manza, to the east of Katashina, the popular ski and onsen areas of Manza and Kusatsu Resort & Spa are great places to relax before or after a good day on the mountain.

MINAKAMI HOUDAIGI

Minakami, Gunma

OKUTONE SNOW PARK (0278) 72-8101 Dec. 14 - Apr. 1

(0278) 75-2557 www.hodaigi.jp Dec. 16 - Apr. 8 8:00 - 16:30 Adults Kids

1 DAY TICKET

¥4,300 ¥2,900

Minakami, Gunma

www.okutone.jp 8:00 - 22:00 (weekends & holidays 6:00 - 24:00)

(17:00-22:00) (Until 24:00 on Fridays, Saturdays, and the days before National Holidays)

1 DAY TICKET

Park

Minakami Houdaigi ski resort is the largest in the Minakami area. The resort, due to the higher elevation, also gets good quality snow. Although there are many beginner and intermediate runs, there are a few advanced courses as well, including a killer 40-degree slope and a 2,600-meter cruiser. Parents can let their kids have fun safely on tubes and airboards in the “Kids Land,” and older kids can enjoy the “Action Land” with tabletops, waves and banks. Beginner

ACCESS

Intermediate

Advanced

Adults ¥4,200 Kids Free for children <12

Park

If rails, pipes and jumps are your thing, Okutone ski Beginner Intermediate Advanced coursesarea is the place to go in Minakami. The park staff takes Beginner Intermediate Advanced Lifts courses Lifts Gondola good care of guests who come to perfect their style at the 30% 20% 50% resort’s park. The night sessions are popular, since they 40% 30% 30% keep the lights on until midnight on Friday and Saturday 1 2 5 nights and before national holidays. The north-facing 6 1 courses have nice snow quality, and you can enjoy some turns on the 3,900-meter long course. Okutone is just two Longest Course: 1,400m hours from Tokyo, making it super convenient. They offer Longest Course: 3,900m 16 Top Elevation: 1,400m 10 Top Elevation: 1,083m free tickets to kids under 12 and freeBeginner coffee Intermediate if you come Advanced courses Base Elevation: 830m courses before 10 a.m. on weekdays. Base Elevation: 550m

By Train and Bus: Shinkansen to Jomo Kogen (75 minutes) then bus to Houdaigi (70 minutes)

NORN MINAKAMI

Minakami, Gunma

(0278)-72-6688 www.snowjapan.com/japan-ski-resorts/gunma/minakami/norn-minakami Dec. 22 - Mar. 31 8:00 - 22:00/24:00 (16:30 - 24:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

ACCESS

By Train and Bus: Shinkansen to Jomo Kogen (75 minutes) then bus to Okutone (40 minutes)

TENJINDAIRA TANIGAWADAKE

Minakami, Gunma

(0278) 72-3575 www.tanigawadake-rw.com 8:30 - 16:30 End of Nov. - Late May

¥4,500 ¥3,600

1 DAY TICKET

Park

Adults Kids

¥3,500 ¥2,000

Park

Park Park

Situated just three kilometers from the Minakami Interchange, Norn Minakami is the most convenient of the Minakami Resorts if you are coming by car. The resort is great for families. They’ve created “family zones” where the average slope is just 13 degrees and a Day Care Center where parents can drop off the little ones and enjoy some time on the mountain themselves. Norn is open from 7 a.m. to midnight on weekends, so you can enjoy a long day on the slopes and, like all Minakami resorts, it is not far from some great hot springs. Beginner Intermediate Advanced

ACCESS

Although Tenjindaira is better known to most for trekBeginner Intermediate Advanced courses king in summer, when the tram is packed with hikers, the courses Lifts Gondola resort is a popular stop on the backcountry trail. The resort itself is relatively small, but lift lines are usually short and 40% 30% 30% 20% 20% 60% the snow quality can be excellent if it’s not too windy up top. However, the secret to “Tenjin” is off the main trails. 1 4 2 2 Those who like their riding steep and deep head for the backcountry. This is “enter at your own risk” territory and not a place to go without avalanche gear (and the knowlLongest Course: 4,000m Longest Course: 2,000m edge how to use it). Better yet, hire one of theIntermediate knowledge10 Top Elevation: 1,500m 5 Top Elevation: 1,220m Beginner Advanced courses courses Base Elevation: 820m able local guides and enjoy some "Japow!" Base Elevation: 750m Beginner Lifts

Intermediate

Advanced

By Train: 150 minutes from Tokyo Station to Minakami Station, then free shuttle. By Car: 90 minutes from Tokyo (Nerima IC) via Kanetsu Expressway

ACCESS

By Train and Bus: Shinkansen to Takasaki Station, then change to the Joetsu Line to Minakami Station, then 20 minutes by bus to Tenjindaira

For more Gunma information visit OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

KAWABA (0278) 52-3345 Dec. 2 - Apr. 15

Kawaba, Gunma www.kawaba.co.jp 8:30 - 16:00

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,500 ¥3,200

There’s something different about Kawaba. You’ll notice it the first time you pull into the covered parking area of the eight-story Kawaba City center house. There are six floors of parking and the seventh and eighth floors are filled with restaurants and ski/board shops. On the mountain, Kawaba is progressive as well with a nice balance of park and powder. Within the 10,790 meters of skiable terrain is the “Powder Zone,” a section of the mountain left ungroomed for powder lovers. There is a good mogul course, the Free Ride Park (back by popular demand) and a 3,300-meter trail for cruising. Kawaba City also includes a ski school, kids corner and locker rooms.

Park

20% 3

40% 1

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

20% 3

Advanced

40% 1

Longest Course: 2,000m Top Elevation: 2,020m

courses Base Elevation: 1,290m

40% 1

Park

Intermediate By Train and Shuttle Bus: Shinkansen to Jomo Kogen (75Beginner minutes), then a ACCESS 50-minute shuttle bus ride to Kawaba Lifts Gondola

Advanced

Longest Course: 2,000m Top Elevation: 2,020m

courses Base Elevation: 1,290m

KUSATSU KOKUSAI (0279) 88-8111 Dec. 16 - Apr. 8

www.kusatsu-kokusai.com 8:30 - 21:00 (17:00 - 21:00)

Kusatsu, Gunma 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,200 ¥3,200

Although Kusatsu is famous as one of the country’s best onsen resorts, the area also features a quality ski resort that has been around since the Taisho Era and is open nearly six months out of the year. Kusatsu Snow & Spa has an eight-kilometer downhill course, one of the longest in Japan (along with Myoko Suginohara), a Kids Square where the little ones can enjoy activities such as snow tubing, and a variety of courses for all levels. However, Heliport the best part of being at Kusatsu is the fact you can enjoy some world-famous hot springs after a great day on the mountain.

Park Heliport

20% 1

50% 2

30% 8

Park

Beginner Lifts

20% 1

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

50% 2

30% 8

Longest Course: 8,000m Top Elevation: 2,171m

courses Base Elevation: 1,245m

Park

Longest Course: 8,000m

9 Top Elevation: 2,171m Beginner (72 Intermediate Advanced By Train and Bus: Shinkansen to Karuizawa Station from Tokyo minutes), courses Base Elevation: 1,245m Lifts Gondola ACCESS then 55 min. by direct bus from Karuizawa Station

MANZA ONSEN (0279) 97-3117 Dec. 9 - Apr. 1

Tsumagoi, Gunma

www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/manza/ 8:30 - 17:00

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,800 FREE

Manza Onsen is another of Prince Resorts signature properties, and the hotel’s buildings command an imposing presence at the bottom of the hill. The resort features a lot of good beginner and intermediate runs and is a great place for families. There are not a lot of challenging runs for advanced skiers, but the scenery is beautiful, the snow quality excellent as it is one of Japan’s highest resorts and the hotel has a nice rotenburo (outdoor bath) for after-ski soaking. The facilities and amenities are on a par with what you’d expect from Prince Resorts, making for a stress-free ski experience.

Park

40% 1

40% 4

20%

Park

Beginner Lifts

40% 1

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

40% 4

20%

Longest Course: 2,000m Top Elevation: 1,994m

courses Base Elevation: 1,646m

Park

ACCESS

Beginner IntermediateStation Advanced By Train & Bus: Shinkansen to Takasaki Station (50 minutes) then to Manza-kazawaguchi Lifts Gondola (90 minutes). Then change to the Seibu Kanko Bus to Manza Onsen (50 minutes).

Longest Course: 2,000m Top Elevation: 1,994m

courses Base Elevation: 1,646m

OZE IWAKURA (0278) 58-7777 Dec. 16 - Apr. 8

Katashina, Gunma

www.oze-iwakura.co.jp/ski/ 8:00 - 21:00 (16:30 - 21:00)

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,600 ¥2,500

Oze Iwakura is the largest of the Katashina ski resorts. It was also one of the longest skiers-only holdouts. The mountain itself has a timeless, genteel feel to it, where visitors enjoy breathing in the fresh air and taking in the views. This year Oze Iwakura celebrates its 40th anniversary, and with the new Shisaka Tunnel, access from Numata I.C. has never been easier. If you get tired of groomers, you’ll find some nice powder on the fringes while some areas outside the lines will be tempting. Yet Iwakura remains a skier's mountain at heart, and skiers will enjoy the long, cruising runs, moguls and some challenging steep terrain. Park

Park

30% 11 9

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

30% 11 9

Advanced

40% 1

30% 2

Longest Course: 3,200m

ACCESS

16 Top Elevation: 1,703m Advanced By Train and Bus: Shinkansen to Jomo Kogen (75 minutes) thenBeginner by bus toIntermediate Oze Iwakura courses Base Elevation: 1,006m Lifts Gondola (90 min.) More information online at www.outdoorjapan.com/snow WINTER 2018

40% 1

30% 2

M.O.C Nagata Longest Course: 3,200m

Top Elevation: 1,703m

courses Base Elevation: 1,006m

GIFU Takasu Snow Park Dynaland

s far as resorts in central Honshu go, Gifu gets much less attention than Nagano, Niigata and Gunma. Nonetheless there are a number

of quality resorts in the region that primarily service the Nagoya and Kansai regions. Less than a couple hours from the main Gifu ski resorts is the Edo-style town of Takayama, known as “Little Kyoto.” Takayama’s master carpenters built some beautiful shrines and temples here at the base of the Japan Alps. Also in the region, along the border of Gifu and Toyama prefectures are the World Heritage villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokoyama, known for the thatched roof houses built in “gassho-zukuri” (praying hands) style. These A-frame farmhouses are constructed to withstand the heavy snowfall that blankets the region each year. If you are looking for good skiing and mixing in some great cultural experiences, Gifu is a great winter destination.

TAKASU SNOW PARK (0575) 72-7000 www.takasu.gr.jp Beg. of Dec. - May 6 8:00 - 16:30

Takasu, Gifu 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,900 ¥2,000

Takasu is well known to park riders. The resort has a large free ride park that includes kickers, rails, boxes and one of the biggest super pipes in Japan. There is also a 600-meter professional boarder cross course and a mogul course. The resort is the training grounds for many of Japan’s rising stars and has hosted a number of competitions including the FIS Snowboard World Cup. Aside from the amazing pipe and park, winter sports enthusiasts of all levels can enjoy the open-faced free ride terrain including a 4,800-meter trail, one of longest in western Japan, and several other 4,000-meter trails. There are even some backcountry tours through Dainichi Valley.

ACCESS

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

35% 1

12 Beginner Intermediate Advanced By Bus: A bus leaves Nagoya at 8 a.m. stopping at both Takasu and Dynacourses land. The trip takes about 2 hours, 45 minutes

Takasu, Gifu 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,900 ¥3,600

Dynaland is the largest of the Takasu ski resorts. There are 19 runs; the longest a 3,200-meter thigh burner. There is a shared ticket to neighboring Takasu Snow Park and two places on the mountain that connect the resorts. If you want to get out on the slopes first thing in the morning, the Hotel Villa Mon-Saint is right in front of the resort, and there are 5 a.m. openings for first tracks on selected dates. The resort has featured a resident DJ who will take music requests, and you can do some good for Mother Nature while having a lunch break since the Dynaland Eco Project collects proceeds from resort restaurants to support a Gifu tree planting project. Night skiing runs until 11 p.m.

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

40% 3

20 Beginner Intermediate Advanced By Bus: A bus leaves Nagoya at 8 a.m. stopping at both Takasu and Dynacourses land. The trip takes about 2 hours, 45 minutes For more Gifu information visit OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

courses

30%

Longest Course: 4,800m Top Elevation: 1,550m Base Elevation: 950m

DYNALAND (0575) 72-6636 www.dynaland.co.jp Dec. 9 - Apr. 1 8:00 - 16:30

ACCESS

35% 3

Advanced

32% 2

Advanced

28%

Longest Course: 3,200m Top Elevation: 1,430m Base Elevation: 983m

courses

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Ma r

Yuzawa Winter Festival

Jan

Freeride Hakuba 2018

17-18

er Events t n i W

Photo Courtesy of freerideworldtour.com / Jeremy Bernard

Photo Courtesy of freerideworldtour.com / Jason Halayko

Kawayu Onsen Diamond Dust Festival

Freeride Hakuba 2018

Kabayuki-no-Sato Snow Lantern Festival

When vapor freezes in the atmosphere it turns into sparkling “diamond dust.” Kawayu Onsen, located in Akan National Park, hosts an evening event with 30,000 lights illuminating the hot spring town.

Part of the world-class Freeride World Tour, the qualifier event returns to Hakuba for the second time. Designed to develop the talent and skills of up-and-coming athletes, the contest will take place over two days in the alpine backcountry of Hakuba Happo-one. Check out a great lineup of local and international athletes.

The quaint Miyama Village in Kyoto, with stunning vistas of snow-covered thatched houses, will be bathed in nearly a thousand lanterns. Make snow lanterns with the local residents, listen to traditional Japanese instruments including shamisen and taiko at the Chiihachiman Shrine and enjoy yatai (street stalls).

Late Dec. - Late Mar. Kawayu Onsen, Hokkaido diamond.teshikaga.asia

Niino Izu Yuki Matsuri Celebrate Nagano’s traditional folklore. Sixteen kinds of arts, including dramas, bon odori -style dances and processions, are performed as snow is offered to the local harvest gods. Jan. 14 Izu Shrine, Nagano

Dosojin Matsuri One of Japan’s most famous fire festivals, Nozawa Onsen’s beloved hi-matsuri features a 65-foot shrine built by the local 25 and 42-yearold men in the village. It is burned in an epic battle as a purification and initiation ritual to prepare for the coming year. Jan. 15 Nozawa Onsen, Nagano

Jan. 17-18 Hakuba Happo-one, Nagano

Tokachi River Swan Festival Sairinka To celebrate the swan migration during January and February, more than 300 images of illuminated swans set the scene for this original sound and light gala. Visitors can enjoy snow rafting, snow candle making and other activities. Jan. 27 - Feb. 25 Tokachigawa Onsen, Hokkaido

Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival Located in eastern Asahikawa City, this festival features 30 impressive ice sculptures along the Ishikari River against the beautiful Daisetsuzan Mountains. Late Jan. - Late Mar. Sounkyo Onsen, Hokkaido

Late Jan. - Early Feb. Miyama, Kyoto yukitouro.jp

Sapporo Snow Festival The internationally famous Sapporo Snow Festival attracts more than two million people annually. Spectacular ice sculptures decorate the Odori, Susukino and Tsudome sites—a must visit especially if you’re in Sapporo for the season. Feb. 1-12 Sapporo, Hokkaido www.snowfes.com

Akan Ice Festival This festival’s center stage is held directly on top of Lake Akan, which is covered with 80 centimeters of thick ice. Enjoy fireworks on clear nights and try your hand at ice cutting and curling. Late Jan. - Late Mar. Akanko Onsen, Hokkaido

TRAVELER

Kasuga Taisha Lantern Festival

Yokote Kamakura Snow Festival

Dating back 800 years, Nara’s Kasuga Taisha Shrine lights up Feb. 3 with more than 3,000 glowing lanterns. The date also marks setsubun, the transition from winter to spring.

Held right after Valentine’s Day, this 400-year-old festival is a romantic date spot with more than 100 kamakura (traditional igloos) offering warm amazake, and even more miniature kamakura illuminated with candles.

Feb. 3 Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Nara

Asahikawa Winter Festival While Asahikawa may not host Hokkaido’s biggest winter festival, it certainly has one of the largest snow sculptures. Just a little over an hour by train from Sapporo, this festival features laser shows, fireworks and live entertainment. Feb. 7-12 Asahikawa, Hokkaido

Abashiri Okhotsk Drift Ice Festival With ice floes and drift ice in the seas at the northern tip of Japan, Abashiri is the ideal place for a brilliant display of ice and snow sculptures which can be enjoyed at all times of the day. Feb. 10-12 Abashiri, Hokkaido

Kasedori Festival Enjoy the sight of scores of people dancing in umbrella-shaped straw coats. Originating in the 1600s, the festival begins in front Kaminoyama Castle in Yamagata. Participants are showered with cold water as they dance their way into the city in a ritual to bring prosperity. Feb. 11 Kaminoyama, Yamagata

Hakodate Russian Festival To celebrate the special relationship between Hakodate and Russia dating back to the early 1860s, this festival is part of Maslenitsa, a Russian orthodox celebration similar to lent. Mid-February Russian Far East Federal University (Hakodate Campus), Hokkaido Sapporo Snow Festival

Feb. 15-16 Yokote, Akita

Nagasaki Lantern Festival What started as a simple Chinese New Year celebration in Nagasaki’s famed Chinatown is now one of Japan’s largest lantern festivals, with more than 15,000 lanterns illuminating Minato and Chuo Park. Held over the first 15 days of the Chinese New Year, the festival features fireworks, Chinese acrobatics, lion and dragon dances and parades. Feb. 16-Mar. 2 Minato and Chuo Park, Nagasaki

Saidaiji Eyo Hadaka Festival Rated one of the top three eccentric festivals in Japan, this 500-year-old matsuri features nearly 9,000 male participants parading in the cold, clothed only in a loincloth. The highlight of the festival is a battle to catch two lucky shingi sticks tossed by priests. Feb. 17 Saidaiji, Okayama

Yuzawa Winter Festival Yuzawa’s normally quiet night is filled with sound of taiko drumming and the mikoshi (portable shrine) procession at this festival. Yuzawa Kogen ropeway will be lit up with 1,000 candles as skiers bearing torches careen down the slopes. Mar. 3 Yuzawa, Niigata www.snow-country-tourism.jp

Feb

1-12

WINTER 2018