Outdoor Japan's Winter Sports Guide 2009-10

INCLUDES COUPONS FOR DISCOUNTS AT RESORTS, RESTAURANTS AND OTHER WINTER SERVICES

knowledge is

O

‘POWDER’ think deep

utdoor Japan publishes our

we’ll be giving away pairs of lift tickets

annual Winter Sports Guide to

every week to readers from December

simply help readers enjoy the amazing

- March. You will also find up-to-the-

snow season in Japan. Inside you’ll find

minute snow conditions, maps, event

spotlights and course info on as many

information and more. So, if you are

ski resorts as we could pack in. Also

sitting in an office in some big city in

companies in and around ski areas and

Japan, it may be hard to imagine, but

coupons for discounts on lift tickets,

just a couple hours away the snow is

bars and restaurants and other resort

falling and someone is getting in some

services. There’s more info on Outdoor

great turns. That could be you, you just

Japan Online (www.outdoorjapan.

need to know where to go, because

com), and if you need another reason,

KNOWLEDGE IS 'POWDER.' THINK DEEP.

For further enlightenment visit www.knowledgeispowder.com

CONTENTS

Cover Photo by Takinari Ota Rider: Tomoyuki Maruyama

Publisher: Outdoor Japan Inc. Editor-in-Chief: Gardner Robinson Design: Byron Hardwick Media Coordinator: Aya Ishii Sales & Marketing: Greg Davis, Fumitaka Igari,

Seiki Watanabe Outdoor Japan Inc. Villa Lotus #101, 1-5-1 Chigasaki, Chigasaki-shi,

4 HOKKAIDO

Cold temperatures and consistent snowfall is a recipe for great conditions at Hokkaido’s world-class resorts.

10 TOHOKU AREA

26

The “road to the deep north” leads to some of the best, and least crowded, resorts in Honshu.

NIIGATA

16 NAGANO

Ultra-convenient Yuzawa and beautiful Myoko Kogen get heavy snow blowing in all winter off the Japan Sea.

Step into the heart of the Japan Alps for some of the biggest, and steepest, resorts in Japan.

GUNMA

Kanagawa-ken 253-0041 Japan Tel/Fax: +81-0467-81-3212 Editorial: editor@outdoorjapan.com Advertising: ads@outdoorjapan.com

GIFU

URL: www.outdoorjapan.com

The one constant is change. Seasons change, people change and information changes too. Outdoor Japan has endeavored to provide accurate information as of the date of publishing, and although we promise this publication will help you enjoy your winter in Japan, we make no guarantees, expressed or implied, with respect to the accuracy of the information in the Winter Sports Guide. We suggest you check with individual resorts for the most up-to-date information before you head to the mountain. ©2009 OUTDOOR JAPAN INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION IS PROHIBITED. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED HEREIN ARE NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF OUTDOOR JAPAN.

33

Minakami, Kusatsu and Oze Katashina give Gunma some quality resort areas on Kanto’s doorstep.

OTHER AREAS: We’ve only touched the tip of the mountain. Toyama, Tochigi, Tottori, Shiga, even Hiroshima, are just a few other areas with decent resorts. In fact, unless you live in Okinawa there is likely a ski resort near you.

39

Nagoya and Western Japan's winter playground offers a chance to enjoy some good skiing and interesting traditional experiences.

ICON LEGEND Park

Park

Halfpipe

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Night Skiing

Ski School

Ropeway

Gondola

Quad Lift

Gear Rental

Kids Facilities

Triple Lift

Double Lift

Single Lift

Burton Learn to Ride School (English)

Snow Carpet

Burton Learn to Ride School (Japanese) Resort opening and closing times and lift schedules may vary from day to day and season opening and closing dates may change depending on conditions. Please check with the resort directly before you go.

Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010 | 3

HOKKAIDO T

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 world-class ski resort, rivaling the long-established ski areas in Europe and North America.

However, anyone thinking Hokkaido is a one-trick pony will be pleasantly surprised to find there are some great ski areas all over Japan’s north island.

Kamui Ski Links Furano Kiroro Snow World

Sahoro

Niseko Grand Hirafu Niseko Village Niseko Annupuri Rusutsu Tomamu

For more Hokkaido information visit OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com) 4 | Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010

HOKKAIDO NISEKO NISEKO GRAND HIRAFU, NISEKO ANNUPURI INTERNATIONAL SKI AREA, NISEKO VILLAGE RESORT

Niseko Grand Hirafu Hanazono Area

Park

Niseko Grand Hirafu

Longest Course: 4,000m Top Elevation: 1,156m Base Elevation: 756m Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Niseko Village Resort Advanced

Longest Course: 5,600m Top Elevation: 1,170m Base Elevation: 280m

Longest Course: 5,000m Top Elevation: 1,175m Base Elevation: 280m

Niseko gets a lot of attention, and rightfully so.

The area consistently gets a lot of snow. The mountain, Niseko Annupuri (the Ainu name meaning White Mountain), is home to three ski resorts: Niseko Grand Hirafu, which includes the Hanazono area, not to be confused with Niseko Village Ski Resort (formerly Niseko Higashiyama) and the quieter Niseko Annupuri. They collectively form Niseko United and share a common lift pass.

Niseko Grand Hirafu 40% 1

37% 5

23% 1

Niseko Annupuri

Park

Niseko Annupuri

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

30% 1

40% 1

30% 4

Niseko Village Resort 36% 1

32% 4

32% 2

30

courses

8

1

13

courses

27

courses

Niseko is the most international resort in Japan. There is a wide selection of restaurants and accommodation (book early for January and February) and lots of activities on and off the mountain. Buses regularly run to and from the international airport, and a convenient shuttle bus gets people around town.

The only knocks are that it feels so international you may forget you’re in Japan and you may have trouble getting a table for dinner.

NISEKO GRAND HIRAFU Niseko, Hokkaido (0136) 22-0109 www.grand-hirafu.jp Nov. 21 - May 5 8:30 - 21:00 (16:30 - 21:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

ACCESS

¥4,800 ¥2,600

Park

By Train: 120 minutes from Sapporo Stn. to Niseko Stn. By Car: 120 minutes from Sapporo City and New Chitose Airport.

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010 | 5

HOKKAIDO NISEKO ANNUPURI Niseko, Hokkaido (0136) 58-2080 www.cks.chuo-bus.co.jp/annupuri Nov. 21 - May 5 8:30 - 16:30 (16:30 - 21:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,800 ¥2,800

Park

By Train: 120 minutes from Sapporo Stn. to Niseko Stn. ACCESS By Car: 120 minutes from Sapporo City and New Chitose Airport.

NISEKO VILLAGE RESORT Niseko, Hokkaido (0136) 44-2211 www.niseko-village.com Nov. 28 - May 5 8:30 - 16:30 (16:30 - 21:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,500 ¥2,800

Park

By Train: 120 minutes from Sapporo Stn. to Niseko Stn. ACCESS By Car: 120 minutes from Sapporo City and New Chitose Airport.

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

WE KNOW SNOW

BLACK DIAMOND TOURS Niseko Rusutsu Hokkaido Backcountry Off Piste Guiding

blackdiamondtours.com 090-2054-8687 6 | Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010

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BOOK NOW:

0136-22-6675

www.north-field.jp/en

HOKKAIDO RUSUTSU RESORT

TOMAMU ALPHA RESORT

Rusutsu, Hokkaido (0136) 46-3331 http://en.rusutsu.co.jp Nov. 21 - Apr. 4 9:00 - 21:00 (16:00 - 21:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥5,100 ¥2,550

Shimukappu, Hokkaido (0167) 58-1111 www.snowtomamu.jp Dec. 1 - Apr. 4 9:00 - 19:00 (16:00 - 19:00) 1 DAY TICKET

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 lifts.

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

Adults Kids

¥4,800 ¥3,600

Park

Tomamu has excellent facilities and a beautiful location. Many courses are suited for beginners, yet a challenging double black diamond course and heli-skiing and cat-ski tours will challenge advanced riders. You can even rent your own course for the day.

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, dog sledding, night-time air-balloon rides, and a variety of spa and relaxation options.

30% 8

25% 1 2

Park Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

37

courses

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

By Train: 140 minutes from Sapporo Stn. to Kutchan Stn. ACCESS By Car: 90 minutes from New Chitose Airport

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

16

courses

45% 2

30% 5

Longest Course: 4,500m Top Elevation: 1,210m Base Elevation: 699m

By Train: 58 minutes from New Chitose Airport to Tomamu Stn. ACCESS By Car: 120 minutes from New Chitose Airport.

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010 | 7

HOKKAIDO FURANO RESORT

KAMUI SKI LINKS

Furano, Hokkaido (0167) 22-5777 www.furanotourism.com Nov. 21 - May 5 8:30 - 20:30 (17:00 - 20:30) 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,200 ¥3,200

Asahikawa, Hokkaido (0166) 72-2311 www.kamui-skilinks.com Dec. 5 - Mar. 28 9:00 - 17:00 1 DAY TICKET

Park

Adults Kids

¥3,000 ¥1,500

Park

Furano, in central Hokkaido, 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.

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 have even left several courses in which to play ungroomed.

The ski-in/ski-out 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.

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.

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

40% 1 5

40% 1 1

20% 2

Longest Course: 4,000m 23 Top Elevation: 1,209m courses Base Elevation: 964m

Bus or car access is recommended: ACCESS 60 minutes from Asahikawa Airport to Furano Stn.

20% 1

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

10

courses

Longest Course: 4,000m Top Elevation: 750m Base Elevation: 600m

Bus or car access is recommended: About 25 minutes from ACCESS downtown Asahikawa on Route 12.

Your best source of information for planning a ski holiday to Central Hokkaido and for assistance during your stay in Furano. Check us out on the web, or drop by the office conveniently located on the ground floor of the Kitanomine Gondola Terminal.

8 | Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010

40%

Park

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

Tourist information

40% 7

www.skifurano.com www.furanotourism.com

HOKKAIDO KIRORO SNOW W ORLD

SAHORO SKI RESORT

Akaigawamura, Hokkaido (0135) 34-7111 http://www.kiroro.co.jp/english/ Nov. 21 - May 5 8:45 - 20:00 (16:30 - 20:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,600 ¥3,900

Shintoku, Hokkaido (0156) 64-4121 www.sahoro.co.jp Nov. 27 - Apr. 4 9:00 - 18:00 (15:00 - 18:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Park

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 mid-December until early May. If Kiroro had one major drawback, it would be a lack of challenging terrain. However, there are a few powder pockets and plenty of gentle slopes for beginners and children.

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.

33% 1

29% 4

Adults Kids

¥4,830 ¥3,780

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 and it's not for the budget traveler.

Two all-inclusive hotels service Sahoro Resort: The Sahoro Resort Hotel, an attractive luxury hotel, and the Club Med Sahoro. Club Med is arguably the most “foreigner-friendly” resort hotel in Japan. English ski lessons are available and lots of organized fun for the whole family.

38% 4

30% 1 3

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

Longest Course: 4,050m 21 Top Elevation: 1,180m courses Base Elevation: 570m

Bus or car access is recommended: About 30 minutes by car from ACCESS Otaru or 80 minutes by car from downtown Sapporo.

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

17

courses

40% 2 1

30% 1

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

By Train: 94 minutes from New Chitose Airport to Shintoku Stn. ACCESS By car: 210 minutes from Sapporo by car.

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

Getting to the ski slopes just got easier Transfers direct to your accommodation Check our website for more details Tel: +81 (0)11 788 4994 Email: info@skybus.co.jp

www.skybus.co.jp

Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010 | 9

TOHOKU T

he Tohuku Region represents about 35 percent of the area of Japan’s main island, Honshu. Running north-south through the center of Tohoku are the Ou Mountains, ranging between 1,500-2,000 meters. When the famous poet, Matsuo Basho, wrote The Narrow Road to the Deep North (Oku

Hakkoda Ropeway Tazawako

no Hosomichi) 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-tofour hours by bullet train or you can jump on a domestic flight. Regardless, it’s never too far to go to find good snow.

Hachimantai Resort Appi Kogen

Miyagi Eboshi Alts Bandai

Yamagata Zao

Snow Paradise Inawashiro

For more Tohoku Area information visit OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com) 10 | Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010

TOHOKU HAKKODA ROPEWAY

APPI KOGEN

Hakkoda, Aomori (017) 738-0343 www.hakkoda-ropeway.jp Early Dec. - Mid May 9:00 - 16:00 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

Hachimantai, Iwate (0195) 73-5111 www.appi.co.jp Nov. 28 - May 5 8:30 - 20:00 (16:00 - 20:00)

¥4,900 ¥2,200

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥5,200 ¥3,000

Park

Hakkoda is a powder resort. With 1.2 meters of annual snow, it’s basically backcountry with a ropeway. The 100-person gondola takes just 10 minutes to the top where you can choose from the "Direct” or "Forest” trails down the mountain. Grab a guide and explore the deep north.

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.

Hakkoda Sansou, across the parking lot from the gondola, is the closest accommodation. The Hakkoda Guide Club is in the lobby and offers full-day tours. Reserve at least a day in advance.

Up the road, Sukayu Onsen is a mixed hot spring with a 300year history and a 1,000-person bath.

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.

Tour Route Area Tour Route Area

20% 1

60% 2

20%

30% 2 2

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

Longest Course: 5,000m 10 Top Elevation: 1,324m courses Base Elevation: 670m

By Train: 40 minutes to Aomori Stn. from Aomori Airport.

ACCESS By Car: 5 minutes from Owani Hirosaki I.C., Tohoku Expressway.

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

21

courses

40% 3

30% 11

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

By Train: 60 minutes from Morioka Stn. to Appi Kogen.

ACCESS By Car: 15 minutes from Matsuo-Hachimantai I.C. or Ashiro I.C.

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

Stay at Pension Mutti Enjoy a relaxing onsen and fun times in Appi.

TEL: 0195-73-5323 mutti@appi-resort.com http://mutti.appi-resort.com

Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010 | 11

TOHOKU HACHIMANTAI RESORT

TAZAWAKO Tazawako, Akita (0187) 46-2011 www.tazawako-ski.com Dec. 18 - Apr. 25 8:30 - 21:00 (16:30 - 21:00)

Hachimantai, Iwate (0195) 78-4111 www.hachimantai.co.jp Dec. 18 - Apr. 5 8:30 - 21:00 (16:00 - 21:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥3,700 ¥2,500

1 DAY TICKET

Park

It’s easy to get confused because there are two Iwate Hachimantai resorts and another in Akita.

The smaller Hachimantai in Iwate is a threelift powder resort known for free riding. Iwate’s Hachimantai Resort, on the other hand, is larger and is a great family ski destination.

Hachimantai Resort covers two main areas, Panorama ski area and the Shomokura ski area. Both are well sheltered from the weather, and Panorama features a huge night skiing area. There are high speed lifts servicing mostly beginner or intermediate courses that are wide open, so plenty of breathing room for beginners or kids wanting to bomb down the hill.

40% 1

PANORAMA

30% 1

Adults Kids

¥3,800 ¥1,000

Park

When it snows in Tazawako, and it usually does, there is 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 stunning backdrop. For this reason, Tazawako is a popular ski resort for people in Tohoku, but the lines are still relatively short 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 and intermediate area and on the other is a more challenging advanced course.

20% 5

30% 2

30% 4

40%

SHIMOKURA Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

Longest Course: 2,700m 14 Top Elevation: 1,130m courses Base Elevation: 540m

By Train and Bus: Shinkansen from Tokyo to Morioka Stn. (2 hours ACCESS 26 minutes), then about 90 minutes by bus to Hachimantai Resort.

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

13

courses

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

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

12 | Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010

Longest Course: 3,000m Top Elevation: 1,186m Base Elevation: 578m

TOHOKU MIYAGI ZAO EBOSHI SKI RESORT Zao-machi, Miyagi (0224) 34-4001 www.eboshi.co.jp Dec. 1 - Mar. 31 9:00 - 22:00 (17:30 - 22:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

짜4,300 짜2,700

1 DAY TICKET

Park

Miyagi's Zao Eboshi Ski Resort is on the other side of the mountain from the more famous Yamagata Zao Onsen Ski Resort. It's much quieter, and 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.

50% 1 1

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

YAMAGATA ZAO SKI RESORT Yamagata-shi, Yamagata (0236) 94-9328 www.zao-spa.or.jp/english/index.html Dec. 5 - May 8:30 - 21:00 (17:00 - 21:00)

30% 1

Adults Kids

짜4,800 짜2,500

Park

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.

40% 3 3

20% 7

Longest Course: 4,300m 10 Top Elevation: 1,350m courses Base Elevation: 650m

By Train and Bus: Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shoroishi-Zao Station ACCESS (1 hour, 54 minutes) then about an hour to the ski resort.

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

26

courses

40% 1 27

20% 5 2

Longest Course: 8,000m Top Elevation: 1,660m Base Elevation: 780m

By Train and Bus: 21/2 hours by bullet train from Tokyo to Yamagata ACCESS Station, then 40 minutes by bus to Zao Onsen.

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010 | 13

TOHOKU ALTS BANDAI

SNOW PARADISE INAWASHIRO

Bandai, Fukushima (0242) 74-5000 www.alts.co.jp Dec. 18 - Early Apr. 8:30 - 21:00 (17:00 - 21:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,700 ¥3,700

Inawashiro, Fukushima (0242) 62-5100 www.goinawashiro.com Dec. 19 - Mar. 28 8:30 - 21:00 (16:30 - 21:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Park

Adults Kids

¥4,400 ¥3,600

Park

With 30K of rideable terrain, 21 courses and five free-style parks, it’s no surprise ALTS is home to the Asia Open (formerly the Nippon Open) Japan’s top snowboarding competition. The addition of Urabandai Nekoma Resort (to be linked this season) extends the season and adds more rideable terrain.

Inawashiro is a small but pretty resort with a great view of Lake Inawashiro. The resort features 15 courses spread out over two main areas. You can ski across or take the shuttle bus from the base.

Night skiing is open until 11 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and before holidays.

ALTS also features Asia’s only Burton Progressive Park. After crankin’ big air in the pipe, slide into the Riders’ Café for a drink or demo some new gear. The resort and hotel with great hot springs and easy access from the Kanto area make ALTS a park rider’s paradise.

A selling point for Inawashiro is it's just a 90-minute Shinkansen ride followed by 40 minutes on a local train to Inawashiro Stn. From there the resort has a free shuttle bus to the mountain.

Non-skiers can enjoy snow trekking and there are many onsen in the area.

35% 1 1 Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

40% 3

25% 7

Longest Course: 3,300m 29 Top Elevation: 1,280m courses Base Elevation: 700m

By Train: 82 minutes from Tokyo Stn. to Koriyama Stn. ACCESS By Car: 60 minutes from Fukushima International Airport.

50% 3 Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

16

courses

10% 1

Longest Course: 3,550m Top Elevation: 1,255m Base Elevation: 675m

By train: 135 minutes from Tokyo Stn. to Inawashiro Stn. ACCESS By car: 240minutes from Tokyo.

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

14 | Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010

40% 10

NAGANO N

agano is the traditional center of the Japan snow scene, and at the heart of it is the Japan Alps. The prefecture is home to some of the finest, steepest and biggest resorts in Japan, and boasts arguably the most breathtaking scenery. Within Nagano, the sheer volume of ski areas is due to the jagged spine of rugged natural beauty

Togakushi Iwatake Tsugaike Hakuba Goryu Hakuba 47 Hakuba Happo Cortina Kokusai

known as the Japan Alps slashing through the prefecture.

This area is as much a Mecca for photographers as it is 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.

Nozawa Onsen Madarao

Okushiga Yakebitaiyama

Hoppobundaira Higashitateyama Nishitateyama

Norikura Kogen

For more Nagano information visit OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com) 16 | Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010

NAGANO HAKUBA GORYU

HAKUBA 47

Hakuba, Nagano (0261) 75-2101 www.hakubagoryu.com/e/index.html Late Nov. 1 - May 9 8:00 - 21:30 (18:00 - 21:30) Adults Kids

1 DAY TICKET

¥4,800 ¥2,500

1 DAY TICKET

Park

Hakuba Goryu is not the largest ski resort in Hakuba, but it could be the most pleasant. The scenery, with the Alps soaring behind you, and the Escal Plaza, one of the best base lodges in Japan, make it a great place to introduce people to skiing in Japan.

There is a ski/snowboard rental shop, three restaurants (including a Subway) and even an ofuro (bath) open until 9 p.m. daily. If you’re on a tight budget, there is a “resting room” where you can wait for the lifts to open (¥1,000; open 11:30 p.m. to 8 a.m.). It’s a common space that fits up to 100 people (no reservations; first come, first rest). Challenge yourself on the Champions expert run.

Goryu also shares a common lift pass with Hakuba 47.

35% 1 Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

Hakuba, Nagano (0261) 75-3533 www.hakuba47.co.jp Dec. 1 - May 5 8:15 - 16:30

40% 3

Adults Kids

¥4,800 ¥2,500

Park

Hakuba 47 is a relatively new resort (opened in 1990) that has been under new ownership the last few seasons. They’ve been trying to take some progressive steps to making a better resort experience, and it is starting to pay off. There are loads of activities, events, an extensive snow park with lots of jibs, kickers and things to launch off, and a great half pipe. The resort also has some excellent intermediate courses, a challenging mogul course and a shared ticket with Goryu, so no shortage of courses from which to choose. Early birds will want to take advantage of the “First Tracks” tour. If you were wondering about the name, the goal of the resort is to offer a great mountain experience “4” seasons and “7” days a week.

25% 9

Longest Course: 5,000m Top Elevation: 1,624m courses Base Elevation: 950m

16

By Train and Shuttle: Shinkansen to Nagano Station and the direct ACCESS bus to Hakuba. A shuttle service runs between Goryu and Hakuba 47.

30% 1 Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

8

courses

40% 1

30% 4

Longest Course: 6,800m Top Elevation: 1,614m Base Elevation: 820m

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

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010 | 17

NAGANO HAKUBA HAPPO

HAKUBA IWATAKE

Hakuba, Nagano (0261) 72-3066 www.hakuba-happo.or.jp Nov. 21 - May 5 8:00 - 21:00 (17:00 - 21:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,600 ¥2,300

Hakuba, Nagano (0261) 72-2474 www.tokyu-hakuba.co.jp/english/winter/iwatake/ Dec. 12 - Mar. 31 8:00 - 17:00 1 DAY TICKET

Park

Happo is a huge resort that is heaven for skiers who enjoy well-groomed, long courses. There are many runs, good challenging terrain, and "parksters" will enjoy the acclaimed High Cascade Snowboard Park. Happo hosted the downhill races during the 1998 Olympics and, if you want to test your meddle, head to the top of the men’s downhill course. While advanced riders will love Happo, beginners may get frustrated with the many narrow paths leading down the mountain. If you need a break, the Usagidaira 109 restaurant on the top of the gondola or the High Cascade Café are great places to stop. Note the resort’s popularity means it can get crowded, especially on long weekends.

30% 1 14

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

50% 5

Adults Kids

¥4,500 ¥2,200

Park

If the crowds at Happo are too much for you, head over to nearby Iwatake. The base of the resort looks up at Hakuba’s highest peaks for a spectacular view while you enjoy the slopes. The resort itself is surprisingly big, making it a great place to go to get away from the crowds and explore the 24 courses.

It’s mostly beginner and intermediate runs, but there is a nearly four-kilometer cruiser and a small terrain park. Lift lines are relatively short by Hakuba standards, and you can often find some pockets of powder here after it has been tracked out at other resorts nearby.

30% 1 12

20% 2

Longest Course: 8,000m 13 Top Elevation: 1,831m courses Base Elevation: 760m

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

Park

South Side

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

North Side

Advanced

15

courses

20% 1

Longest Course: 3,800m Top Elevation: 1,289m Base Elevation: 539m

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

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

18 | Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010

50% 1 1

NAGANO HAKUBA CORTINA KOKUSAI 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

HAKUBA TSUGAIKE KOGEN Otari, Nagano (0261) 83-2515 www.tsugaike-kogen.com Nov. 21 - May 5 8:00 - 20:50 (18:00 - 20:50)

Hakuba, Nagano (0261) 82-2236 www.hakubacortina.jp Dec. 12 - Apr. 4 8:30 - 20:00 (17:00 - 20:00) ¥3,330 ¥1,700

1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,500 ¥3,000

Park

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 will be impressive. If your partner is just starting out; the course right outside the door of the hotel is a gentle slop and great for beginners.

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.

In fact, most of the runs at the resort are in the beginner to intermediate range, although powder pockets are there, if you know where to look. The hotel offers a free shuttle from Nagano Station for guests (reservation required).

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.

40% 2

30% 6

30%

50% 1 1

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

Longest Course: 5,000m 17 Top Elevation: 1,402m courses Base Elevation: 872m

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

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

15

courses

30% 1 9

20% 10 2

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

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

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010 | 19

NAGANO NORIKURA KOGEN ONSEN

NOZAWA ONSEN

Norikura Kogen Onsen, Nagano (0263) 93-2645 www.norikura.co.jp Dec. 19 - Mar. 28 8:30 - 16:20 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,000 ¥3,000

Nozawa Onsen, Nagano (0269) 85-3166 www.nozawaski.com Nov. 21 - May 5 8:30 - 20:00 (17:00 - 20:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Park

The base of Norikura Kogen Onsen Ski Resort (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. And after a day on the mountain, don’t miss the great rotenburo at Yukemurikan.

35% 1

45% 1

Adults Kids

¥4,600 ¥2,100

Park

If you’re looking for the quintessential Japanese ski experience, Nozawa Onsen is the place. 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.

Water and Fire. Water is everywhere in Nozawa, from the snow melting in the streets, to water flowing beside cobblestone roads, to the 30 hot springs scattered around the village (including 13 free baths in town). Fire takes center stage at the Dosojin Matsuri (Fire Festival on Jan. 15).

40% 2 10

20% 6 Park

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

20

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

courses Base Elevation: 1,500m

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

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

36

courses

WHITE HORSE www.whitehorsehakuba.com

White Horse Hotels Bars and Restaurants “Your friend on a powder day” 20 | Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010

30% 3

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

By Train: 60 minutes from Nagano Station to Togari Nozawa Onsen ACCESS Stn. then taxi or shuttle bus. By Car: 75 minutes from Nagano.

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

HAKUBA

30% 5 1

NAGANO MADARAO KOGEN SKI RESORT 1 DAY TICKET

Adults ¥4,200 Kids <12 FREE

1 DAY TICKET

Park

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. This year the resort has a “Zipline Adventure” course, and backcountry tours can be arranged through the resort.

30% 2 1 Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

TOGAKUSHI SNOW WORLD Togakushi, Nagano (0262) 54-2106 www.togakusi.com/skimenou Dec. 19 - Apr. 4 8:30 - 16:30

Iiyama, Nagano (0269) 64-3214 www.madarao.jp/ski/english Dec. 18 - Apr. 4 8:30 - 21:00 (17:00 - 21:00)

40% 3

Adults Kids

¥4,000 ¥2,500

Park

Togakushi is an interesting, medium-sized resort.

The name “Togakushi” means “hidden door,” and the resort is owned by Nagano City and newly managed by Tokyu Resorts, 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, 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 in interesting place. It is famous for soba, and there are some beautiful shrines, temples and onsen nearby to finish of a great day on the mountain.

30% 2

30% 5

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

23

By Train and Bus: Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano City (1 hour, 28 ACCESS minutes) then by bus to Madarao Kogen Ski Resort.

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

19

40% 5

30%

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

courses Base Elevation: 1,200m

By Train and Bus: Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station ACCESS (1 hour, 45 minutes), then less than 1 hour to Togakushi by bus.

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010 | 21

NAGANO SHIGA KOGEN Shiga Kogen, Nagano

YAKEBITAIYAMA, HOPPOBUNADAIRA -HIGASHITATEYAMA - NISHITATEYAMA, OKUSHIGA

There’s no central village but a shuttle bus frequently makes the loop (free if you have a lift ticket) and there are many onsen in the area.

Most restaurants are found inside hotels, many serving Shiga Kogen Brewery’s excellent microbrew. A great side trip is the Jigokudani Yaen Koen, where the resident snow monkeys lounge in their own hot springs.

Northern Nagano’s Shiga Kogen is Japan’s largest ski resort (in area), has some of the highest elevation (Yokoteyama is 2,300m) and one of the longest ski seasons (late Nov. – early May). Shiga Kogen consists of 21 interlinked slopes, so there is plenty of variety. One lift ticket allows you to ride all 71 lifts, gondolas and ropeways.

Shibutouge

Okushiga Kogen

Terakoya Yokoteyama

Yakebitaiyama

Ichinose Family Tanne no Mori

Yama no Kami

Hoppobunadaira, Higashitateyama, Nishitateyama

Diamond

Maeyama Giant

Kumanoyu

Kidoike

Hasuike

Kasadake

SunValley Maruike

YAKEBITAIYAMA

45% 2

Shiga Kogen, Nagano (0269) 34-3111 http://ski.princehotels.co.jp/shiga/ Nov. 21 - May 5 8:30 - 20:30 (18:30 - 20:30) 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,800 ¥2,400

30% 3

25% 3

Park

Park

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

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

18

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

courses Base Elevation: 1,550m

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

B&B Santana ONLY 300 meters

f ro m H a k u b a Goryu Gondola

BOOK NOW: ( 0 ) 2 6 1 - 7 5 - 2 0 7 6

www.hakuba-santana.com 22 | Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010

HAKUBA METEOR Lodges Enjoy the warm welcoming feeling of home at our lodges. Friendly accommodation at affordable prices in Happo-one, Hakuba 47, Hakuba Goryu and Iwatake, Hakuba, Nagano.

Visit Us Online!

hakuba-meteor.com/English

NAGANO HOPPOBUNADAIRA - HIGASHITATEYAMA - NISHITATEYAMA Shiga Kogen, Nagano (0269) 34-2404 www.shigakogen.gr.jp/english Nov. 21 - Mid Mar. 8:30 - 16:30 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

짜4,800 짜2,400

50% 1

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

7

40% 4

10% 1

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

courses Base Elevation: 1,325m

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

OKUSHIGA KOGEN SKI FIELD Shiga Kogen, Nagano (0269) 34-2225 www.okushiga.jp/information/ Nov. 21 - May 5 8:30 - 16:30 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

짜4,800 짜2,400

45% 1

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

9

35% 5

20%

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

courses Base Elevation: 1,460m

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

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

Play in the Hakuba Alps.

Soak in our hot Onsens.

Hotel panorama

Hotel and Onsen Two Outdoor Baths

Tel: 0261-72-5070 info@hakubaterry.com

www.hakubaterry.com Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010 | 23

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 the heaviest snowfalls in Japan.

The town of Yuzawa was where Yasunari Kawabata penned his award winning novel Snow Country (Yukiguni). It is also

NASPA Ski Garden

Niigata’s most popular of winter sports 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 border from Nagano Prefecture, in the southeastern part of Niigata, 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 coast and features some great resorts in its own right.

Joetsu Kokusai GALA Yuzawa

Iwappara Akakura

Charmant Hiuchi Seki Onsen Kagura Tashiro Mitsumata Naeba Myoko Suginohara

For more Niigata information visit OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com) 26 | Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010

NIIGATA NAEBA SKI RESORT

KAGURA -TASHIRO - MITSUMATA

Yuzawa, Niigata (0257) 89-2211 www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/naeba Dec. 5 - Apr. 11 8:00 - 21:00 (16:00 - 21:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥5,000 ¥2,500

Yuzawa, Niigata (0257) 88-9221 www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/kagura Nov. 21 - May 23 (Tashiro May 5) 8:00 - 17:00 1 DAY TICKET

Park

Naeba Resort is connected to the Tashiro, Kagura and Mitsumata ski areas by the "Dragondola" — the world's longest gondola, which travels 5.5 kilometers in 15 minutes.

To Naeba

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

40% 7

¥4,200 ¥2,100

Park

These three connecting ski areas form one big resort. If you count Naeba, the total rideable area is 368 hectares. From Naeba you’ll be lifted above Lake Tashiro to wider and less crowded slopes and better snow quality, but the area closes at 4 p.m. and the lift line back to Naeba can be long. A better option is to access the Tashiro Ropeway on Route 17. You can then traverse across Tashiro in about 40 minutes to Kagura, known for good backcountry options (enter at your own risk) and a long season.

The Mitsumata area has a small boarder's park, a few jumps and two good slopes for learning. Accessible by the Mitsumata Ropeway on Route 17.

Naeba calls itself "The St. Moritz of the East" and is a popular choice for Kanto trendsetters wishing to get away for a day trip or a quick ski weekend.

The crescent-shaped Prince Hotel cuts an imposing figure at the base of this classic ski-in / ski-out resort and features all the trappings you would expect from a Princemanaged resort hotel. Off the mountain, there are children’s services, hot springs and other amenities and, on the mountain, a terrain park, kids park, family snow park and more.

30% 3

Adults Kids

30% 15

45% 3 2

Kagura Area Park

Tashiro Area To Naeba

Longest Course: 4,000m Top Elevation: 1,789m courses Base Elevation: 900m

27

By Train and Free Shuttle: Joetsu Shinkansen to Echigo Yuzawa Station ACCESS (77 minutes) then free shuttle bus to Naeba Resort (50 minutes).

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

23

courses

35% 5

20% 13

Longest Course: 6,000m Top Elevation: 1,845m Base Elevation: 620m

By Train and Shuttle Bus: Joetsu Shinkansen to Echigo Yuzawa Station ACCESS (77 minutes) then shuttle bus to one of the resort’s car parks on Route 17.

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

Super Quality Space with Fine Dining

The

025-789-3911 www.kinta.com Naeba, Japan

Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010 | 27

NIIGATA GALA YUZAWA SNOW RESORT Yuzawa, Niigata (0257) 85-6543 www.galaresort.jp/winter/english Dec. 11 - May 5 8:00 - 17:00 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,300 ¥2,100

IWAPPARA Yuzawa, Niigata (0257) 87-3211 www.iwa-ppara.com/english.html Dec. 19 - Apr. 4 8:00 - 20:30 (17:00 - 20:30) 1 DAY TICKET

Park

Adults Kids

¥3,900 ¥2,000

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 train station that doubles as the ski lodge. The amazing efficiency has its drawbacks, however. It means you will most definitely not be alone on the hill. You can, 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.

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 (five minutes) so it is quite possible to do a day trip from Tokyo, and the main course is so wide open, beginners can practice their turns without fear of being run over by a speedy skier (or vice versa).

The resort is not for serious skiers but, if you just want to have fun in the snow for a day with friends, you can’t beat the convenience.

The views from the top are nice, and the village area around the ski area has a nice selection of restaurants.

35% 1 2

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

16

courses

45% 1 3

20% 4

Longest Course: 2,350m Top Elevation: 1,181m Base Elevation: 800m

By Train: 77 minutes from Tokyo Stn. to Echigo Yuzawa Stn. ACCESS By Car: 50 minutes from Echigo Yuzawa Stn. to Gala Yuzawa.

40% 2

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

10

courses

40% 6

20%

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

By Train and Shuttle Bus: 77 minutes from Tokyo Stn. to Echigo Yuzawa ACCESS Stn. then shuttle bus from Echigo Yuzawa Station in less than 10 minutes.

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

LODGENAGANO

| VILLANOZAWA | NOZAWAHOUSE

Three great locations to stay in a Magic Town Season runs from November 21st to May 6th (With Mother Natures Blessing)

Go against the tide come in December or March and April.

Beat the crowds and save some money for a new board or set of skis!

tel. 050 5532 6026 www.nozawaholidays.com | www.lodgenagano.com 28 | Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010

NIIGATA NASPA SKI GARDEN

JOETSU KOKUSAI SKI RESORT

Yuzawa, Niigata (0257) 80-6222 www. naspa.co.jp/english Dec. 19 - Apr. 3 8:30 - 19:00 (17:00 - 19:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,000 ¥3,000

Minamiuonuma, Niigata (0257) 82-1028 www.jkokusai.co.jp Dec. 12 - Apr. 4 8:00 - 21:00 (17:00 - 21:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Park

NASPA is a relatively new ski resort (opening in 1992) holding on to the past by being one of the only skiers-only resorts left in Japan. The ski hill is behind the deluxe New Otani Hotel and the resort which definitely caters toward families who ski and want to stay in luxury.

In fact, you can enjoy yourself even if you are not a skier, as there are public and private 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.

38% 2

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

37% 1

Adults Kids

¥4,000 ¥3,000

Park

To the north of Yuzawa town is a 634-room, European-style 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 “Daibetta Slope” that will challenge anyone’s courage. The resort also has an extensive terrain park and two half-pipes; one used in the 2004 World Cup, and regularly hosts events such as the 2009 Nippon Freeskiing Competition.

Parents wanting to keep the little ones entertained will like the “Kids Paradise” area outside on the snow as well as an indoor “Kids Room.”

25% 2

Longest Course: 2.2km 8 Top Elevation: 690m courses Base Elevation: 430m

By Train and Free Shuttle Bus: Joetsu Shinkansen to Echigo Yuzawa Station ACCESS (77 minutes) then free shuttle bus to NASPA Ski Garden (5 minutes).

30% 3 Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

22

courses

50% 4

20% 18

Longest Course: 6,000m Top Elevation: 817m Base Elevation: 200m

By Train and Bus: Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo to Echigo Yuzawa ACCESS Station (77 minutes) then bus to Joetsu Kokusai (25 minutes).

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

Hoshi Boshi Lodge

A private lodge in Nagano

A great place for groups of 20 or less to get away and enjoy all Nagano has to offer.

www.hoshi-boshi.com Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010 | 29

NIIGATA MYOKO SUGINOHARA

AKAKURA ONSEN

Myoko, Niigata (0255) 86-6211 http://ski.princehotels.co.jp/myoko/ Dec. 19 - Mar. 28 8:30 - 16:30 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,000 ¥3,000

Akakura Onsen, Niigata (0255) 87-2125 www.akakura-ski.com Dec. 19 - Apr. 4 8:00 - 21:00 (17:00 - 21:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Park

Myoko Kogen is simply one of the naturally prettiest ski resorts in Japan. Suginohara is another of the Prince resorts, and the facilities are well-maintained. The runs above the gondola are where advanced skiers and powder hounds will have the most fun, but there is a lot to choose from here and some great onhill restaurants at which to stop and take a break.

And you may need to, as Suginohara boasts arguably 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 along.

40% 1

40% 2

Adults Kids

¥3,900 ¥2,700

Park

Myoko Akakura Kanko Ski Resort was one of the first European-style ski resorts in Japan. After merging with Akakura Champion Ski Resort, it has been renamed Akakan, although locals still call it “Shin Akakura.” The unmistakable symbol of Akakan is the Akakura Resort & Spa which 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 in which to play. Akakan has a nice variety of courses, but the most challenging runs are on the old “Champions” side of the mountain.

20% 1

50% 2

30% 4

20% 9

Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

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

Park

16

By Train: 160 minutes from Tokyo Stn. to Myoko Kogen Stn. ACCESS By Car: 160 minutes from Tokyo.

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

16

courses

Longest Course: 3,750m Top Elevation: 1,500m Base Elevation: 740m

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

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

Akakura’s luxury ski-in ski-out hotel.

Experience Myoko Kogen in style.

Hotel Kofukan Traditional Japanese Ryokan • Indoor and Outdoor Onsens • Free Shuttle Service contact Tel: 0255-86-2046 Email: kofukan@nifty.com Myoko, Nigatta

www.homepage2.nifty.com/kofukan

30 | Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010

Akakura Kanko Resort & Spa 0255-87-2501 www.akhjapan.com

NIIGATA SEKI ONSEN

CHARMANT HIUCHI

Seki Onsen, Niigata (0255) 82-2316 www.sekionsen.com Dec. 1 - May 1 9:00 - 17:00 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥3,500 ¥2,800

Nou, Niigata (0255) 68-2345 Dec. 19 - May 5 1 DAY TICKET

Park

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 local 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. There’s no ATM, so make sure to bring cash.

20% 1

30% 1

Adults Kids

¥3,800 ¥2,800

Park

Charmant is a locally owned and operated ski resort that 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 get 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, and you can ski straight through Golden Week.

20% 1

50%

Park

Beginner Lifts

http://charmant-hiuchi.jp 8:30 - 16:30

45% 2

35%

Park

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

Longest Course: 1,600m 6 Top Elevation: 1,620m courses Base Elevation: 1,000m

By Train: Shinkansen from Tokyo Stn. to Nagano Stn. (1 hr., 45 min.), then ACCESS take the JR Shinetsu Honsen Line to Sekiyama Station, then 20 min. by taxi.

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

17

courses

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

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

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

UFO STADIUM BLUE LIZZARDS Aprés-ski Sports Bar LOUNGE 898 Nightclub 3RD SHIFT Live Band House Yaki Niku BBQ Restaurant Live Stage Local & International Bands / DJS All Season

UFO STADIUM

FREE Shuttle Bus service.

For details see www.ufo-stadium.com

LOUNGE 898

HAKUBA’S NO.1

3RD SHIFT

DESIGN BY WWW.DUSTYLABYRINTH.COM

Hakuba’s Number 1 Aprés-ski location

Tokyo flexi-package tours available, 2 nights all inclusive from ¥ 24,000. See http://www.japan-hakuba-accommodation.com for details and options.

Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010 | 31

GUNMA W

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 ten ski resorts and is just 90 minutes from Tokyo. Ozu-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 the popular Oze Iwakura, Hotaka Bokujo, a boarders 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 Okutone Snow Park

Kawaba

Tenjindaira Tanigawadake

Oze Iwakura

Norn Minakami Manza Onsen Kusatsu Kokusai

For more Gunma information visit OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com) Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010 | 33

GUNMA MINAKAMI HOUDAIGI

OKUTONE SNOW PARK

Minakami, Gunma (0278) 75-2557 www.hotakasan.co.jp/hodaigi/index_E.html Mid Dec. - Mid Apr. 8:00 - 16:30 (17:00 -21:00 Jan. only) 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,000 ¥2,500

Minakami, Gunma (0278) 72-8101 www.gl-net.ne.jp/okutone Dec. 19 - Mar. 28 7:00 - 22:00 (17:00 - 22:00 / 24:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Park

Houdaigi ski area is the largest ski area in Minakami and gets better snow than most of the resorts in the area since it is at a higher elevation. 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 table tops waves and banks.

40% 2

30% 5

Adults Kids

¥4,000 ¥2,500

Park

If rails, pipes and jumps are your thing, Okutone ski area is the place to go in Minakami. The park staff takes good care their loyal customers who come to perfect their tricks at the resort. The night sessions are popular, since they keep the lights on until midnight on Friday and Saturday nights, and they even offer Nighter season passes (as well as “Sunset” passes from 3 p.m. until closing time).

If you want powder, head higher in the hills, but Okutone is very convenient since it’s right off the main road after you cross over the Yubiso River.

30% 5

30% 1

40% 1

30%

Park Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate

Advanced

Longest Course: 2,600m 16 Top Elevation: 1,400m courses Base Elevation: 830m

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

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

10

courses

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

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

ALPINE LODGE

ADVENTURE CENTER

Refresh your mind, body & soul...

Minakami Winter Adventures

Backcountry & Snowshoe Tours Ski & Snowboard Lessons Alpine Lodge Accommodation Packages Apres Snow Events Just 2 Hours from Tokyo!

www.canyons.jp 0278-72-2811 34 | Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010

Longest Course: 3,000m Top Elevation: 1,083m Base Elevation: 550m

GUNMA NORN MINAKAMI

TENJINDAIRA TANIGAWADAKE

Minakami, Gunma (0278) 72-6666 www.g-jmt.com/norn/eng Dec. 19 - Mar. 28 8:00 - 16:30 (16:30 - 22:00 / 24:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,200 ¥3,400

Minakami, Gunma (0278) 72-3575 www.tanigawadake-rw.com Nov. 21 - May 5 8:00 - 16:30 1 DAY TICKET

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, is not far from some great hot springs.

30% 2

50% 2

Adults Kids

¥3,500 ¥2,000

Park

Although Tenjindaira gets more guests in summer, when the tram is packed with hikers, than in winter when the area is blanketed in snow, “Tenjin” is a favorite of Minakami locals. The resort itself is relatively small, but lift lines are usually short and the snow quality can be excellent if it’s not too windy up top.

However, the secret to Tenjindaira is what you don’t see, which is access to some serious backcountry. This is an “enter at your own risk” territory and not a place to go without avalanche gear (and the knowledge to use it) and a professional guide.

30% 1

20%

40% 4

30%

Park Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate

Advanced

5

courses

Longest Course: 2,000m Top Elevation: 1,220m Base Elevation: 820m

By Train: 150 minutes from Tokyo Stn. to Minakami Stn., then free shuttle.

ACCESS By Car: 90 minutes from Tokyo (Nerima IC) via Kanetsu Expressway.

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

10

courses

Longest Course: 4,000m Top Elevation: 1,500m Base Elevation: 750m

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

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

Tokyo SnowClub

www.tokyosnowclub.com

Shiga’s coziest and most unique Lodge.

Special deals available online.

Visit the Japanese Alps, Nagano.

Telephone inquire: +81 269-34-2731 email today: villa-alpen@shigakogen.jp http://www.shigakogen.jp/villa-alpen/index_e.htm

Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010 | 35

GUNMA KAWABA

KUSATSU KOKUSAI

Kawaba, Gunma (0278) 52-3345 www.g-jmt.com/kawaba/eng Nov. 28 - Apr. 11 8:30 - 16:00 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,200 ¥2,700

Kusatsu, Gunma (0279) 88-8111 www.kusatsu-kokusai.com/winter/english Dec. 18 - Apr. 17 8:30 - 21:00 (17:00 - 21:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Park

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 or 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, kid’s corner and locker rooms.

20% 3

40% 1

Intermediate Gondola

¥4,500 ¥3,800

Park

Although Kusatsu is famous as one of the country’s best onsen rsorts, 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 (next to 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, 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.

Heliport

40% 1

Park

Beginner Lifts

Adults Kids

30% 1

50% 2

20% 9

Park

Advanced

Longest Course: 2,000m 10 Top Elevation: 2,020m courses Base Elevation: 1,290m

By Train and Shuttle Bus: Shinkansen to Jomo Kogen (75 minutes) ACCESS then 50-minute shuttle bus ride to Kawaba.

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

10

By Train and Bus: Shinkansen to Karuizawa Stn. from Tokyo ACCESS (72 minutes), then 55 min. by direct bus from Karuizawa Stn.

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

36 | Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010

Longest Course: 8km Top Elevation: 2,117m

courses Base Elevation: 1,245m

GUNMA MANZA ONSEN

OZE IWAKURA

Tsumagoi, Gunma (0279) 97-3117 http://ski.princehotels.co.jp/manza/ Dec. 12 - Apr. 4 8:00 - 17:00 (Sats. only, 17:30 - 20:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥3,500 ¥2,500

Katashina, Gunma (0278) 58-7777 www.oze-iwakura.co.jp Dec. 12 - Apr. 4 8:00 - 21:00 (16:30 - 21:00) 1 DAY TICKET

Park

Manza Onsen is another of one of Prince Hotels signature properties and the hotel’s buildings commands an imposing presence at the bottom of the hill that features a lot of good beginner and intermediate runs and is a great place for families.

There isn’t a lot of challenging runs for advanced skiers but the scenery is beautiful, the snow quality excellent and the hotel has a great (albeit smelly) natural rotenburo (outdoor bath) for after ski soaking. The facilities and amenities are on par with what you’d expect from a Prince Resort making for a stress-free ski experience.

40% 1

50% 7

Adults Kids

¥4,600 ¥3,600

Park

Oze Iwakura is the largest of the Katashina ski resorts. It was also one of the longest skiersonly holdouts and at last check there were still a few runs that banned boarders (mainly mogul courses). The mountain itself has a timeless, genteel feel to it, something akin to Zao in Yamagata, where visitors seem more interested in breathing in the fresh air and taking in the views than worrying about the latest snow fashion. 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.

30% 1

10%

40% 2

30% 10

Park Park

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

14

Longest Course: 1,500m Top Elevation: 2,008m

courses Base Elevation: 1,646m

By Train & Bus: Takasaki Line from JR Ueno Station to Manza-Kazawaguchi ACCESS Stn. (160 min.) then change to the Seibu Kogen Bus to Manza Onsen (50 min.).

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

18

Longest Course: 3,200m Top Elevation: 1,703m

courses Base Elevation: 1,006m

By Train and Bus: Shinkansen to Jomo Kogen (75 minutes) then by ACCESS bus to Oze Iwakura (90 min.)

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010 | 37

EVENT CALENDAR EVENT HIGHLIGHTS Dec. 19-20 Columbia Snow Downhill 2009, Shiga Kogen, Nagano Dec. 19-Mar. 28 Madarao Zipline Adventure, Madarao Kogen Ski Resort, Nagano Jan. 9-17 Burton Mountain Festival, Niseko Village, Hokkaido Jan. 15 Dosojin Fire Festival, Nozawa Onsen, Nagano Jan. 23 Appi Jazzy Sport 2010, Appi Kogen Ski Resort, Iwate Jan. 29-30 Snow Splash in Minakami, Minakami, Gunma Feb. 6 Zao Juhyo Matsuri, Yamagata Zao Ski Resort, Yamagata Feb. 13-14 Enuove Cup, Hakuba Iwatake Ski Resort, Nagano Feb. 19-21 The North Face Event Vol. 1, Niseko Village, Hokkaido Feb. 19-21 Tazawako Kogen Yuki Matsuri, Tazawako Ski Resort, Akita Feb. 27 Red Bull Snow Charge at Hakuba Happo Hakuba, Nagano Feb. 27 Snow Splash in Hakuba, Hakuba, Nagano Mar. 6 Winter Love at Tracks Bar, Hakuba, Nagano Mar. 8-21 Tohoku Park Festival, Hachimantai, Iwate Mar. 20-22 The North Face Event Vol. 2, Niseko Village, Hokkaido Apr. 4 Indy Park Jam, Alts Bandai Snow Park & Resort, Fukushima

SKI RESORT EVENTS HOKKAIDO Niseko Annupuri Ski Resort Dec. 24-25 Christmas Gift to Kids Mar. 13-14 & 20-22 Special Kid’s Day Events Niseko Village Ski Resort Dec. 31 New Year’s Countdown Event Jan. 1 New Year’s First Run Special Sunrise Gondola Mid March (TBA) Wonder Festival Sahoro Ski Resort Jan. 1 New Year’s First Run Special Sunrise Gondola Jan. 19-11 & Feb. 11&14 Winter Harvest Festival Mar. 21-22 Spring Ski Festival & Slider Competition Furano Resort Feb. 4-7 High School Ski Race Competition Tomamu Alpha Resort Dec. 23 Ice Village Opening Dec. 24 -25 Christmas Party Jan. 30-31 Tomamu Perfect Day – Two day private tour with Takeshi Kodama Feb. 6-7 H PLUS Two-Day CAT Tour Kamui Ski Links Wednesdays Ladies day (¥2,000 lift ticket) TOHOKU Tazawako Ski Resort (Akita) Feb. 19-21 Tazawa Kogen Snow Festival Appi Kogen (Iwate) Jan. 23 Appi Jazzy Sport Music Festival Hachimantai Resort (Iwate) Tuesdays Ladies Day (¥2,000 lift ticket) Fridays Senior’s Day (over 50-years-old / ¥2,000 lift ticket) Third Sundays Kids Day (¥1,000 lift ticket for kids) Dec. 24-25 Christmas Fair Dec. 31-Jan. 1 Count Down Fireworks Mar. 18-21 Tohoku Park Festa (2,000m long snow park) Mar. 21 Last Nighter – Free lifts 4-9 p.m.

Mar. 21-22 Spring Festa Alts Bandai (Fukushima) Dec. 31-Jan. 1 Countdown Firework Show (lifts open 24 hours) Jan. 9-10 & Feb.13-14 Alts Thanks Festival (lifts open 24 hours) Mar. 2-7 Burton Asia Open 2010 Snowboard Championships Mar. 20-22 Spring Ski Festival Inawashiro Ski Resort (Fukushima) Feb. 28 & March 7 Sports Day on the Snow Nekoma Ski Resort (Fukushima) Jan. 1 New Year Celebration in Nekoma Feb. 6-7 Nekoma Snow Festival Mar. 14 Nekoma Snowboard GS & Challenge Cup Mar. 27-28 Spring Nekoma Festa Mar. 28 Nekoma Junior Cup GS April 4 Indie Park Jam Mid April-Early May Special Spring Park Miyagi Eboshi (Miyagi) Jan. 16 Firework Show Zao Onsen (Yamagata) Dec. 26-Jan. 2 & Feb. 1-Mar. 6 (Everyday), Jan. 9-31(Saturdays) Special Illumination Feb. 6 Zao Juhyo (Snow Monsters) Festival - Fire & Ice Feb. 13-14 Zao Juhyo (Snow Monsters) Festival - Onsen & Ice

OJ WINTER SPORTS GUIDE NIIGATA Charmant Hiuchi Fridays Ladies Days (Half price lift tickets for ladies) Iwappara Third Sundays Kids Days (Free lifts for primary school students or under) Jan. 16-Feb. 14 Snow Hut Festival March 28-29 Thanks Day Events NASPA New Otani Feb. 28 Ski Mogul ASPA Cup NAGANO Hakuba Cortina Dec. 12-18 Early Special (Adults ¥1,500 yen, kids ¥1,000 yen) March 28-April 4 Spring Special (Adults ¥1,500 yen, kids ¥1,000 yen) Hakuba Happo Feb. 20 Happo Fire Festival March 21 Kids Festival Hakuba Iwatake Open - Dec. 18 Early Special (Adults ¥2,500, kids ¥1,100) Third Saturdays & Sundays (Dec.-Mar) Kids Day (Free lift for primary school students or under) Dec. 31-Jan. 1 Countdown Event Feb. 12 Iwatake Thanks Day (¥2,250 lift tickets for adults, free lifts for kids) Feb. 13-14 Enuove Cup Feb. 22-28 Nagano Residents Days (Special prices and deals) Mar. 1-7 Ishikawa, Toyama, Niigata Residents Days (Special prices and deals) Mar. 8-14 Aichi, Shizuoka, Yamanashi Residents Days (Special prices and deals) Mar. 15-31 Spring Special (Adults ¥2,500, kids ¥1,100) Hakuba Tsugaike Ski Resort Third Sundays (Dec.-Mar.) Kids Days (Free lift for primary school students or under) Jan. 10 Ski Day Events Feb. 13-14 Snow Bike Jam Feb. 27 Snow Festival Mar. 20-22 Monster Canyon Session (25-meter gap session!)

Hakuba 47 Third Sundays & May 5 Kids Day (Free lift for primary school students or under) Feb. 13-14 Hakuba 47 20th Anniversary Celebration Mar. 13-14 Hakuba 47 Gelende Festival Madarao Dec. 26 Christmas Firework Show Dec. 31- Jan. 1 Count Down Ski & Fireworks Saturdays (Jan. 2 to Mar. 20) Fireworks Jan. 9 Traditional Fire Festival Jan. 23 Air Wave Session Mar. 13 Madarao Speed Challenge Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort Nov. 21-Dec. 18 Early Special (Adults ¥3,000) Fourth Thursdays (Jan.-Mar.) Ladies Days Dec. 19 Opening Festival Dec. 31-Jan. 1 New Year’s Nighter & Countdown Fireworks Apr. 9-11 2011 New Model Test Ride Event Mar. 29-May 5 Spring Special (Adults ¥3,500) Togakushi Ski Resort Third Sundays Kids Days (Free lifts for primary school students or under) Dec. 19-25 New Season Special (Adults ¥2,000, Kids ¥1,500) Mar. 6 Picnic Party on the Snow GUNMA Houdaigi Ski Resort Jan. 17, Feb. 7, & March 28 Kids Snow Festival Mar. 14 Salomon Snow Festival Kusatsu Ski Resort Dec. 19 Open day special (Free lifts and ropeway) Dec. 24 Christmas Event Jan. 30-31 Snow Festival Mar. 3 Ladies Day (Free lift and ropeway for women) Mar. 22 8K Alpine Rally Mar. 28 Kusatsu Mogul Cup Norn Minakami Dec. 19 Open day special (Free lift tickets for the first 200 arrivals) Jan. 31 International Day (To Be Confirmed) Oze Iwakura Dec. 30 New Years Eve Nighter Feb. 21 Iwakura Ironman Course Tour GIFU Dynaland Wednesdays Ladies Day (Free lift for ladies, except Dec. 23 & 30)

For more winter events visit the Race & Event Calendar at Outdoor Japan Online (www.outdoorjapan.com).

GIFU A

lthough it gets less attention from the Tokyo crowd than Nagano, Niigata and Gunma, Gifu has a number of quality resorts that service the Nagoya and Kansai region.

Less than a couple hours from the main Gifu ski resorts are 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.

Dynaland Takasu Snow Park

For more Gifu information visit OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com) Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010 | 39

GIFU TAKASU SNOW PARK

DYNALAND

Takasu, Gifu (0575) 72-7000 www.g-jmt.com/takasu/eng Dec. 1 - Apr. 11 8:00 - 16:30 1 DAY TICKET

Adults Kids

¥4,800 ¥2,500

Dainichidake, Gifu (0575) 72-6636 http://g-jmt.com/dynaland/eng/ Dec. 5 - Apr. 4 8:00 - 16:45 1 DAY TICKET

Park

Takasu is well known to snowboarders who ride parks. The resort has 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’s even some backcountry tours through Dainichi Valley.

35% 1

35% 3

Intermediate Gondola

¥4,300 ¥1,500

Park

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 a resident DJ that 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.

30%

40% 3

32% 3

28%

Park

Park

Beginner Lifts

Adults Kids

Advanced

Longest Course: 4,800m 12 Top Elevation: 1,550m courses Base Elevation: 950m

By Bus: A bus leaves Nagoya at 8 a.m. stopping at both Takasu and ACCESS Dyanaland. The trip takes about 2 hours 45 minutes.

Beginner Lifts

Intermediate Gondola

Advanced

18

courses

By Bus: A bus leaves Nagoya at 8 a.m. stopping at both Takasu and ACCESS Dyanaland. The trip takes about 2 hours 45 minutes.

More detailed resort information on OJ Online (www.outdoorjapan.com)

40 | Winter Sports Guide 2009-2010

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

DISCOUNT COUPONS

FOR SKI RESORTS

CLIP & SAVE!

¥400 OFF!

¥300 OFF!

1-Day Lift Tickets

1-Day Lift Ticket

FURANO SKI RESORT

NISEKO VILLAGE SKI

Furano, Hokkaido

Niseko, Hokkaido

¥10 OFF PER LITER!

¥500 OFF!

(Dec. 19, 2009 - Feb. 28, 2010)

¥10 Discount per liter at the local ENEOS gas station if you show a 1-day lift pass.

NORIKURA KOGEN ONSEN SKI RESORT

FOR ADULTS AND SENIORS

1-Day Lift Tickets

package includes lunch

10% OFF!

1-Day Lift Tickets

PRINCE HOTELS SHIZUKUISHI SKI RESORT Shizukuishi, Iwate

¥600 DISCOUNT! 1-Day Lift Ticket

(package includes lunch) HAKUBA 47 WINTER SPORTS PARK HAPPO-ONE SKI RESORT

Azumi-mura, Nagano

Hakuba, Nagano

Hakuba, Nagano

20% OFF!

¥500 OFF!

¥500 OFF!

1-Day Lift Tickets

1-Day Lift Tickets

NAEBA SKI RESORT

KAGURA SKI RESORT

Naeba, Niigata

Naeba, Niigata

Rental Ski Equipment & Rental Ski Wear

SHIGA KOGEN YAKEBITAIYAMA SKI RESORT Shiga Kogen, Nagano

¥500 OFF!

1-Day Lift Tickets

CHARMANT HIUCHI SKI RESORT Nou, Niigata

¥500 OFF!

1-Day Lift Tickets

MINAKAMI KOGEN SKI RESORT Minakami, Gunma

SPECIAL PACKAGE! SPECIAL PACKAGE! 1-Day Lift + ¥1,000 Food & Beverage Coupon + ¥500 Cash Coupon for ¥5,100 (regular price ¥5,700)

1-Day Lift + ¥1,000 Food & Beverage Coupon + ¥500 Cash Coupon for ¥4,700 (regular price ¥5,700)

KAWABA SKI RESORT

NORN MINAKAMI

Kawaba, Gunma

Minakami, Gunma

¥1,000 DISCOUNT! ¥1,300 DISCOUNT! 1-Day Lift Tickets

1-Day Lift Tickets

DYNALAND SKI RESORT

TAKASU SNOW PARK

Takasu, Gifu

Takasu, Gifu

(weekdays only)

(weekdays only)

DISCOUNT COUPONS CLIP & SAVE!

10% OFF!

1-Day Lift Tickets

Prince Hotels Shizukuishi Ski Resort Tel: (0196) 93-1111 url: www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/shizukuishi-e/ index.html Restrictions Up to 2 persons per coupon Valid for 2009-10 season only

¥600 DISCOUNT!

1-Day Lift Ticket (package includes lunch) Happo-One Ski Resort Tel: (0261) 72-3066 url: www.hakuba-happo.or.jp Restrictions Valid for December 19, 2009 - March 22, 2010

¥500 OFF!

1-Day Lift Tickets

Kagura Ski Resort Tel: (0257) 89-2211 url: www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/naeba-e/ Restrictions Up to 5 persons per coupon / Valid for 2009-10 season only / Valid for Kagura only (not NaebaKagura common lift ticket)

¥300 OFF!

1-Day Lift Ticket for Adults & Seniors Niseko Village Ski Resort Tel: (0136) 44-2211 url: www.niseko-village.com Restrictions Valid for 2009-10 season only

¥500 OFF!

1-Day Lift Tickets (package includes lunch) Hakuba 47 Winter Sports Park Tel: (0261) 75-3533 url: www.hakuba47.co.jp Restrictions Offer good for up to 4 persons per coupon Valid Valid for 2009-10 season only

¥500 OFF!

1-Day Lift Tickets

Naeba Ski Resort Tel: (0257) 89-2211 url: www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/naeba-e/ Restrictions Up to 5 persons per coupon / Valid for 2009-10 season only / Valid for Naeba only (not NaebaKagura common lift ticket)

SPECIAL PACKAGE! SPECIAL PACKAGE! 1-Day Lift + ¥1,000 Food & Beverage Coupon + ¥500 Cash Coupon for ¥4,700 Norn Minakami Tel: (0278) 72-6688 url: www.g-jmt.com/norn/ Restrictions Offer good for up to 4 persons per coupon Valid for 2009-10 season only

1-Day Lift + ¥1,000 Food & Beverage Coupon + ¥500 Cash Coupon for ¥5,100 Kawaba Ski Resort Tel: (0278) 52-3345 url: www.g-jmt.com/kawaba/eng/ Restrictions Offer good up to 4 persons per coupon Valid for 2009-10 season only

¥1,300 DISCOUNT! ¥1,000 DISCOUNT!

1-Day Lift Tickets

Takasu Snow Park Tel: (0575) 72-7000 url: www.g-jmt.com/takasu/eng/ Restrictions Up to 5 persons per coupon / Valid weekdays only Valid for 2009-10 season only (Not valid Dec. 29-Jan. 04)

1-Day Lift Tickets

Dynaland Ski Resort Tel: (0575) 72-6636 url: www.g-jmt.com/dynaland/eng/ Restrictions Up to 4 persons per coupon / Valid weekdays only Valid for 2009-10 season only (Not valid Dec. 29-Jan. 04)

FOR SKI RESORTS

¥400 OFF!

1-Day Lift Tickets

Furano Ski Resort Tel: (0167) 22-1111 url: www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/furano_e/ Restrictions Offer good for up to 5 persons per coupon.

Valid December 19, 2009 - February 28, 2010

¥10 OFF PER LITER! ¥10 Discount per liter at the local ENEOS gas station if you show a 1-day lift pass.

Norikura Kogen Onsen Ski Resort Tel: (0263) 93-2645 url: www.norikura.co.jp Restrictions Available with a day lift pass / Valid for 2009-10 season only / Gas station closed 1/1/2010.

20% OFF! Rental Ski Equipment & Rental Ski Wear

Shiga Kogen Yakebitaiyama Ski Resort Tel: (0269) 34-3111 url: http://ski.princehotels.co.jp/shiga/ Restrictions Up to 5 persons per coupon Valid for 2009-10 season only

¥500 OFF!

1-Day Lift Tickets

Charmant Hiuchi Ski Resort Tel: (0255) 68-2345 url: www.charmant-hiuchi.jp Restrictions Up to 6 persons per coupon Valid for 2009-10 season only

¥500 OFF! 1-Day Lift Ticket

Minakami Kogen Ski Resort Tel: (0278) 75-2222 url: www.minakamikogen200.jp Restrictions Up to 5 persons per coupon Valid for 2009-10 season only

DISCOUNT COUPONS CLIP & SAVE!

FOR RESORT SERVICES

10% OFF!

10% OFF!

10% OFF!

10% Discount off Backcountry Tours and Lessons

10% off ALL Ski Rentals if you stay at The Alpen Ridge

10% off NORTHSTAR Original Apparel and Goods

NISEKO ADVENTURE CENTRE

NISEKO BASE SPORTS

NORTHSTAR OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Niseko, Hokkaido

Niseko, Hokkaido

Azumi-mura, Nagano

¥100 DISCOUNT!

5% OFF!

¥200 OFF!

¥100 Discount at Happo-One Kaihatsu Onsen

5% off on High Performance Ski and Snowboard Rentals

¥200 off Spa of Shobei at Hakuba Momonoki Hotel

HAPPO-ONE KAIHATSU

MOMINOKI SKI RENTALS

SPA OF SHOBEI AT MOMONOKI HOTEL

Hakuba, Nagano

Hakuba, Nagano

Hakuba, Nagano

20% OFF!

¥1,000 OFF!

10% OFF!

20% off any Massage at Hakuba Physio

WEEKDAY SPECIAL! ¥1,000 off Canyons Alpine Lodge Accommodation

10% off all BOTTOMLINE Tune-up Services

HAKUBA PHYSIO & MASSAGE

CANYONS LTD. ALPINE LODGE

BOTTOM LINE SKI & SNOWBOARD SHOP

Hakuba, Nagano

Minakami, Gunma

Nerima, Tokyo

DISCOUNT COUPONS

FOR RESORT SERVICES

CLIP & SAVE!

10% OFF!

10% OFF!

10% OFF!

10% off NORTHSTAR Original Apparel and Goods

10% off all Ski Rentals if you stay at The Alpen Lodge

10% Discount off Backcountry Tours and Lessons

NORTHSTAR Outdoor Adventures

Niseko Base Sports (Part of Ski Japan)

Niseko Adventure Centre

Tel: (0263) 93-1688 url: www.ridenorthstar.com

Restrictions

Tel: (0136) 21-3277 url: www.nisekobase.com

Restrictions

Tel: (0136) 23-2093 url: www.nac-web.com

Restrictions

Offer good for one-time purchase Valid for 2009-10 season only

Valid for 2009-10 season only

Valid for 2009-10 season only Cannot be combined with any other offers Must book directly through NAC

¥200 OFF!

5% OFF!

¥100 DISCOUNT!

¥200 off Spa of Shobei at Hakuba Momonoki Hotel

5% off on High Performance Ski and Snowboard Rentals

¥ 100 Onsen Discount

Spa of Shobei at Hakuba Momonoki Hotel

Mominoki Ski Rentals

Tel: (0261) 72-2515 url: www.hakuba-happo.or.jp/ Valid for December 9, 2009 - May 5, 2010

Restrictions

Restrictions

Valid for 2009-10 season only

10% OFF!

¥1,000 OFF!

20% OFF!

10% off all BOTTOM LINE Tune-up Services

WEEKDAY SPECIAL! ¥1,000 off Canyons Alpine Lodge Accommodation

20% off any Massage at Hakuba Physio

Canyons Ltd.

Tel: (0261) 22-4117 url: www.HakubaPhysio.com

Restrictions

Valid until March 31, 2010 Please mention this coupon when making booking

Tel: (0261) 72-5001 url: www.momonokihotel.com Valid for 2009-10 season only

Bottom Line Ski & Snowboard Shop Tel: (0339) 78-1809 url: http://bottom-line.jp

Restrictions

Valid until April 30, 2010

Tel: (0261) 72-5001 url: www.momonokihotel.com

Tel: (0278) 72-2811 url: www.lodge.canyons.com Valid December 1, 2009 - March 31, 2010

Happo-One Kaihatsu

Restrictions

Hakuba Physio & Massage

Restrictions

DISCOUNT COUPONS CLIP & SAVE!

10% OFF!

10% Off Restaurant Bill

BLACK DIAMOND RESTAURANT Niseko, Hokkaido

10% OFF!

FOR RESTAURANTS & CAFÉS

10% OFF!

4-COURSE MEAL!

10% Discount on Your Bill

4-course meal for two plus champagne with a booking of 5 nights or more for 2 persons

JOJO'S CAFÉ

NORTH FIELD

Niseko, Hokkaido

Niseko, Hokkaido

NO COVER CHARGE! FREE SOFT DRINK! No Cover Charge (¥900 value) plus complimentary popcorn

Free Soft Drink if you spend more than ¥500 on food

ON CAFÉ

MUGI SHU TEI (PHRED'S BAR)

HIGH CASCADE CAFÉ

Jozankei Onsen, Hokkaido

Sapporo, Hokkaido

Hakuba, Nagano

FREE GLASS OF WINE!

¥100 OFF BEER!

FREE DRINK!

¥100 Off Kirin Draft Happy Hour Price

One Free Drink! at any More Resort Bar or Restaurant

10% Discount on Your Bill

Free Glass of Wine with any two-course meal (entrée, main or dessert)

MIMI'S RESTAURANT

THE MOMINOKI PUB

MORE RESORTS

Hakuba, Nagano

Hakuba, Nagano

Hakuba, Nagano

10% OFF!

10% OFF!

FREE BEER!

10% Off Your Bill at the Roots Café

10% Discount on Your Bill

1 Free Beer! with Purchase of a Tortilla Meal

ROOTS CAFÉ

SIDE HILL BAR

TRACKS BAR

Hakuba, Nagano

Hakuba, Nagano

Hakuba, Nagano

DISCOUNT COUPONS

FOR RESTAURANTS & CAFÉS

CLIP & SAVE!

4-COURSE MEAL!

10% OFF!

10% OFF!

4-course meal for two plus champagne with a booking of 5 nights or more for 2 persons

10% Off Your bill

10% Off Restaurant Bill

JoJo’s Café

Black Diamond Lodge

North Field Lodge

Tel: (0136) 22-6675 url: www.north-field.jp

Tel: (0136) 22-2093 url: www.nac-web.com

Restrictions

Tel: (0136) 44-1144 url: www.bdlodge.com

Restrictions

Valid for 2009-10 season only

No restrictions apply

FREE SOFT DRINK!

NO COVER CHARGE!

10% OFF!

Free Soft Drink if you spend more than ¥500 on food

No Cover Charge (¥900 value) plus complimentary popcorn

10% Off Your Bill

High Cascade Café

Mugi Shu Tei (Phred’s Bar)

url: www.neilhartmann.com

Restrictions

Valid for 2009-10 ski season only

On the slopes at Hakuba Happo url: www.hakuba-happo.or.jp/snowpark/

Tel: (0115) 12-4774 url: www.ezo-beer.com/eng/mugi/mugi.html

On Café

Restrictions

Valid from December 12, 2009 - April 11, 2010

Restrictions

Offer good for up to 2 persons per coupon Valid until April 30, 2010

No restrictions apply

FREE DRINK!

¥100 OFF BEER!

FREE GLASS OF WINE!

One free drink! At any More Resort Bar or Restaurant

¥100 off Kirin Draft Happy Hour Price

More Resorts

The Mominoki Pub

Free glass of wine with any two-course meal (entrée, main or dessert)

Restrictions

Tel: (0261) 72-4060 url: www.phoenixhotel.jp

Restrictions

Tel: (0261) 75-2768 url: www.japan-hakuba-snow-moreresorts.com

Restrictions

Tel: (0261) 72-4453 url: www.mominokihotel.com

Mimi’s Restaurant

Valid at Blue Lizards Sports Bar, Lounge 898 Nightclub, Happy Forest BBQ Garden, 3rd Shift Live House / Valid 2009-10 winter season only

Valid during Happy Hour (4:30 - 6:00 p.m.)

FREE BEER!

10% OFF!

10% OFF!

1 free beer with purchase of a tortilla meal

10% Off Your Bill Side Hill Lodge and Bar

10% off your bill at the Roots Café

Tracks Bar

Tel: (0261) 75-4366 url: www.tracksbar.com

Restrictions

Valid for 2009-10 season only

Restrictions

Offer good for up to 2 people per coupon Valid for 2009-10 ski season only

Tel: (0261) 75-5557 url: www.hakuba-sidehill.com

Restrictions

Valid until March 31, 2010

Evergreen Outdoor Center

Tel: (0261) 72-5150 url: www.evergreen-hakuba.com

Restrictions

Valid for 2009-10 Winter Season This offer excludes alcoholic beverages