A ski resort with a great tree running area, where tree running is popular

2025/12/13

Tree running is gaining popularity right now, along with powder riding. In forests covered with broadleaf trees, the snow is in good condition and is easily maintained, there are deep drifts of snow, and the terrain is rich and undulating, making it the perfect field for freeriding. So, starting from the north, we'll be checking out ski resorts with great tree running environments.　

INDEX

[Hokkaido]
Rusutsu Resort｜RUSUTSU RESORT

Tree riding in a beautiful forest so relaxing that it is called “forest bathing”

[Tree Run Field] Heavenly Spirit Course/Rinkan Course

Rusutsu has many loyal fans thanks to its size, snow quality, and varied terrain. Comprised of three mountains - West Mt., East Mt., and Mt. Isola - the resort boasts 37 runs totaling an incredible 42km! Mt. Isola and East Mt. have slopes facing north, which means they are less exposed to the sun and the snow conditions are always maintained in excellent condition. What's more, the forests where you can enjoy tree runs are blocked by broad-leaved trees, making them the perfect place to enjoy powder tree riding.

Heavenly Spirit Course at the back of Mt. The slippery course on the southeast side with an average slope of 20 to 25 degrees has a mountainous shape, and it is fun to ride while using the walls on the left and right. It is a place where you can slide through the trees and play on the undulations with plenty of natural items.

The West Mountain forest course is an ungroomed course through a natural forest where you can enjoy choosing your lines while avoiding the trees for 750m. It is groomed for easy sliding and offers a dynamic feeling of skiing.

The appeal of Rusutsu's tree runs has been spread overseas, and a movie titled ``SHINRIN-YOKU'' (forest bathing) was even made by an overseas film crew. This is a 2019-20 work created by HEAD's global team and set in Rusutsu Forest. Rusutsu's tree run, projected with a unique sensibility, is interesting.

◆ Official HP / https://rusutsu.com/

[Hokkaido]
Niseko Tokyu Grand HIRAFU｜NISEKO TOKYU Grand HIRAFU

A famous spot where you can enjoy fantastic tree riding at night

[Tree run field] Between forests in the ski resort management area

Powder, uncompacted snow, groom, tree run and various course variations are number one in the Niseko area. All of the courses are steep and undulating, and the powder that is said to be the birthplace of JAPOW is piled up on the rich natural terrain, so Grand Hirafu is irresistible for those who like to ski. Actually, if you focus on the tree run, this is also wonderful.

This is because Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu does not have a course name, but there are many tree run points in addition to the overlook course. There are a lot of trees growing naturally here and there, and you can slide through them naturally, and you can also have fun on the side of the course. The appeal is that you can try a tree run anywhere that suits your skiing level. The photo above is one of those situations. Due to Hokkaido's latitude, the tree line is low, so even in spots where the altitude is not very high, the trees are not too closely spaced. This is also one of the reasons why you can enjoy tree running at ski resorts in Hokkaido in general.

At Nise Tokyu Grand Hirafu, you can also enjoy tree running at night. The course area and variety of night games are the largest in Japan. The beauty of the trees illuminated by the night lights and the fantastical scenery of skiing in the forest is something special.

◆ Official HP / https://www.grand-hirafu.jp/winter/

[Hokkaido]
Kiroro Snow World｜KIRORO SNOW WORLD

Kiroro's tree run has a great powder reset rate.

[Tree Runfield] Off-Piste Area

It is close to Sapporo city, so you can make a day trip even if you stay in Sapporo.

Because of the heavy snowfall, it is strongly supported by powder-loving Sapporo city skiers and enthusiastic free skiers visiting from Honshu. A popular resort frequented by riders from both inside and outside of Hokkaido. It was relatively empty and it snowed almost every night, resetting the course conditions. Due to the low temperature, the quality of the powder is maintained for a long time from the beginning of the season, and the rich natural terrain is endlessly attractive. Kiroro has an off-piste area that allows you to enter the ski area, except for areas that are completely off-limits. Due to the natural forest conditions, you can enjoy a tree run among the beautiful white trees as shown in the photo above.

◆ Official HP / https://www.kiroro.co.jp/en/

[Hokkaido]
Kamui Ski Links｜KAMUI SKI LINKS

Distance, slope, and terrain changes are suitable for experts.

[Tree Ranfield] Deep Powder/Fresh Powder

The iconic Kamui is a box-shaped four-seater gondola, which is rare these days. It is said that Kamui's uncompacted snow courses make up about 30% of the entire ski resort, so there is plenty of skiing for powder lovers. In addition to the uncompacted snow at the top of the mountain, we recommend the uncompacted snow forest course and deep powder course on the north slope.

On the tree run course, the ``Deep Powder'' and ``Fresh Powder'' on the left side of the gondola are highly recommended. The authentic course is long at 600 to 800 meters, has a slope of 30 to 32 degrees, and has a moderate amount of mush, making it suitable for experts. It's perfect for skiers who are discerning about the terrain.

◆ Official HP / https://www.kamui-skilinks.com/

[Hokkaido]
Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU

Aim for the ``Advanced-only area'' inside the ski resort

[Tree Run Field] Limited release area for advanced users

Hoshino Resort Tomamu can be said to be a symbol of the eastern Hokkaido area.

Although it is a resort, it is amazing that the ski resort offers a wide range of options, such as an advanced ski area, CAT tours, backcountry tours, and an environment where you can ski in powder and trees. The first choice for enjoying tree runs casually is the advanced-only open area within the ski resort.

The terrain is rich with undulations and slopes in the forest zone. Furthermore, Tomamu is one of the coldest areas in Hokkaido. The snow quality is maintained in good condition in the shaded forest, so you can enjoy the fun of the natural topography in the powder. Such a place has a dream-like favorable condition that you can spin around with a hooded quad lift. Advanced skiers are required to sign an agreement before skiing and wear a helmet. Even if you ski all day here, you will be satisfied. Observe the rules and enjoy the lift efficiently.

◆ Official HP / https://www.snowtomamu.jp/winter/

[Hokkaido]
Sapporo Teine

A sparse forest nature zone including “Kitakabe” with an elevation difference of over 400m

[Tree Runfield] Kitakabe

About 40 minutes by car from the center of Sapporo city, the access is excellent. You can also expect powder riding overlooking the city of Sapporo and Ishikari Bay from the summit with an altitude of over 1,000m.

Teine's Tree Run Point is a nature zone with sparse forests, including the famous "North Wall Course" with an elevation difference of over 400m. A spot for advanced users where you can enjoy a tree run with terrain changes on an uncompacted snow slope with a maximum slope of 36 degrees. The snow on top speed is the best. One of Teine's selling points is that you can enjoy riding while looking at the sea.

◆ Official website / https://sapporo-teine.com/snow/

[Iwate Prefecture]
Appi Kogen｜APPI KOGEN

The total area of the five ever-expanding tree run areas is 600,000㎡!

[Tree Runfield] Attack Bravo Cruise 1 Cruise 2 Dragon Tail

Appi's distinctive feature is its long, expansive nature, with 21 trails radiating from the 1,304m-high, solitary peak of Maemoriyama, including a whopping 12 trails over 2km. To cover this, highly maneuverable gondolas and quad lifts are strategically placed, allowing for easy access between trails. Thanks to its

topographical conditions and its location at 40 degrees north latitude, Appi's snow is fine-grained and resistant to compaction. This high-quality powder, which can be enjoyed over long distances, has long attracted freeskiers, but in recent years, Appi has been gaining even more attention. This is due to the rapid expansion of its ungroomed snow and tree-running areas, now consisting of five areas covering a total area of 600,000m²! Two vast tree fields are located in Nishimoriyama in the background, and three in Maemoriyama in the front. Appi's commitment to tree-running is remarkable.

Not only is the terrain beautiful, but the diverse tree species also make for exceptional tree-running, allowing you to experience the natural beauty of Tohoku while skiing. Nishimori's "Attack" slope is particularly challenging, with steep slopes and muddy terrain. You can enter at the designated area, receive an armband, and put on a helmet before skiing.

◆ Official HP / https://www.appi.co.jp/

[Iwate Prefecture]
Natsuyu Kogen Ski Resort | GETO KOGEN

A one-of-a-kind tree run paradise with “heavy snow/powder tree run”!

[Tree Run Field] Heart, Rookie 1, Garden, Rookie 2, Summit, Rabbit, Rush, Beach, Cascade, Alta, Stream, Extreme, Shooter 1, Shooter 2, Shooter 3, Shooter 4

Located in the southwest of Iwate Prefecture, Geto Highlands is bordered by the Kitakami Mountains to the east and the Ou Mountains to the west. The terrain is blessed with an abundance of dry powder, and it's surprising that it has the highest snowfall in Honshu. Geto Highlands Ski Resort has 14 runs served by two gondolas and five lifts, but it was ahead of the trend in focusing on tree runs and has been actively expanding its skiing area year after year. Under the banner of "Grow Up Treerun," the resort has launched a novel concept of dividing tree run runs into levels of difficulty, allowing you to progress according to your skill and experience. This system allows you to choose a run that suits your ability and enjoy tree runs safely and securely.

There are a total of 16 tree run areas, each taking advantage of the varied natural terrain, allowing you to enjoy powder riding to your heart's content in a forest as beautiful as a photograph or video. This is the true joy of Geto.

This ▼ is an introductory video of the tree run, and you can enjoy the beauty of the Natsyu Forest, the pleasant feeling of sliding as if diving into the snow while kicking up powder, and the richness of the Natsyu Tree Run, which can be enjoyed in all directions. It tells me to take it.

◆ Official HP / https://www.getokogen.com/winter/

[Fukushima Prefecture]
Hoshino Resorts NEKOMA MOUNTAIN

A tree running area the size of four Tokyo Domes has been created!

Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain is one of Japan's largest resorts, boasting 33 courses across a vast field stretching from north to south, suitable for everyone from families to advanced skiers. This season, a long-awaited tree run area will be opening at Nekoma. Comprised of three zones and covering a total area of approximately 20 hectares (the equivalent of four Tokyo Domes), this vast area offers superb powder snow and unique terrain as you wind through beech forests. The area is scheduled to open as soon as there is sufficient snowfall, which is expected to be around early January.

◆ Official HP / https://www.nekoma.co.jp/

[Niigata Prefecture]
Maiko Snow Resort｜MAIKO SNOW RESORT

The popular "Haglöfs Tree Run Area" is a collaboration with the brand

[Tree Run Field] Okuzoeji area(Gungun Course/Haglöfs Tree Run Area)

Only 1 minute from Shiozawa Ishiuchi IC! The location is irresistibly convenient for those who prefer to drive their own cars. Many of the slopes are relatively gentle, giving the impression that they are suitable for families and beginner and intermediate skiers. But the truth is, for freeskiers, it's completely different.

The number of uncompacted snow courses that take advantage of the rich natural terrain has expanded rapidly, and there are currently five locations. Many of the courses face north, and the smooth Uonuma powder accumulates, making it a perfect freeride zone. The Okuzoeji area is at the innermost part of the ski resort, so the snow quality is excellent, and there are relatively few bumps along the Okuzoeji Quadlift, making it a powder slope during snowfall. You can enjoy a panoramic view of Okuzoeji.

The ``Gungun Course'' and ``Haglöfs Tree Run Area'' in the Okuzoe area are the best for tree runs. The distance between the trees is a little tight, but the slope is just right and you can ski comfortably with plenty of time. Advance registration is required for skiing, and it is recommended to wear an armband and a helmet. No matter where you slide down, you can always return to the course at the end, making it perfect for beginners.

◆ Official HP / https://www.maiko-resort.com/

[Niigata Prefecture]
Yuzawa Nakazato Snow Resort｜YUZAWA NAKAZATO SNOW RESORT

A tree run with plenty of sliding action that is completely different from the image for families and beginners.

[Tree run field] G (uncompacted snow course), H (side country)

Located about 10 minutes from Yuzawa Interchange, the ski center is directly connected to JR Echigo Nakazato Station, making it easily accessible by train. The slopes are wide and spacious, with gentle slopes. Although it is advertised as being suitable for families and beginners, Nakazato actually has a completely different side to it. The mountain on the right side of the ski resort has been developed to make use of the natural terrain and trees, and is open to the public as a tree run area. With the exception of dangerous areas such as under the overhead lift wires, the entire mountain is available for skiing. There are no special fees or applications required to ski in the tree run area; all you need is a lift ticket.

The tree density is varied, making the rhythmic changes fun, there are a variety of slopes to choose from depending on your preferences, there are steep faces that offer plenty of fun, there is constant snowfall so the conditions are consistently good, and the undulating natural terrain makes it extremely fun - there are so many charms to be found in Nakazato's tree running that it's impossible to describe them all.

◆ Official HP / https://www.maiko-resort.com/

[Niigata Prefecture]
Kagura Ski Resort｜KAGURA

Enjoy and challenge rhythm changes during long runs

[Tree run field] Rinkan expert course

Kagura is easily accessible by car or Shinkansen.

The number of metropolitan area skiers who love powder and love this place as their home continues to increase year by year. Many skiers enjoy the side country that can be accessed from the lift, and the back country that enters through the gate from the top of the No. 5 Romance Lift, but from the viewpoint of tree run, it is the "Rinkan Expert Course". The coniferous forest that spreads out at the top of the mountain at an altitude of 1,845m is close to the forest limit, so the trees are spaced apart as shown in the photo above. It feels great to roll up the powder spray on a big turn. Then, toward the bottom, it becomes a dense broadleaf forest zone, so the density of the trees becomes thicker this time. It's challenging because you can enjoy the rhythm change in the long run.

◆ Official HP / https://www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/kagura/winter/

[Niigata Prefecture]
Charmant Hiuchi Ski Resort｜CHARMANT HIUCHI

Tree run in Japan's longest non-stop powder area at 1,100m

[Tree Runfield] Tobiyama, Oriya, Princess Bowl, Jackson, Zen

Charmant is famous as a heavy snowfall area, but during the high season, the snowfall constantly exceeds 500 cm, and the amount of snowfall is extraordinary. Moreover, it is dry powder and the snow quality is superb. The concepts of ski resorts that create an environment that can provide the best possible use of this overabundant snow are "non-compressed snow principle" and "nature as it is." We have continued our efforts to not compact the snow, and now more than 65% of the area is designated as non-compressed snow areas and courses.

Thanks to that, you can enjoy tree runs according to your level. "Tobiyama" is one of the longest non-stop powder areas in Japan at 1,100m. Oriya, with densely spaced trees, is for intermediate and advanced skiers. The "Princess Bowl" is a sparsely forested area with few trees and some slopes. As you go to the lower part of "Jackson", the slope becomes narrower and you can enjoy the change of forests and swamps. If you are a tree run beginner, "Zen". The distance between the trees is exquisite, and the slope is gentle with a maximum slope of 21 degrees.

◆ Official HP / https://charmant-hiuchi.jp/

[Niigata Prefecture]
Ishiuchi Maruyama Ski Resort｜ISHIUCHI MARUYAMA

Use your time ticket effectively and enjoy it to the fullest!

[Tree run field] Tree run area (top of mountain/halfway)

Ishiuchi Maruyama receives a light snowfall brought by seasonal winds blowing in from the Sea of Japan. January, with particularly heavy snowfall, brings an abundance of delicious Uonuma powder, comparable to Uonuma Koshihikari rice, drawing hungry powder lovers.

Though a long-established ski resort boasting a 70-year history, Ishiuchi Maruyama is innovatively introducing new facilities and services every year. Lift tickets are time-based. Consecutive 4-hour and 8.5-hour passes allow you to enjoy a wide range of skiing, from free time to night skiing.

The two tree-running areas, the summit and mid-mountain, are filled with abundant powder amid the beautiful trees, offering a rhythmic ride over the natural, uneven terrain. Helmets, however, are required. Make the most of your time-based ticket and follow all the important points to fully enjoy the tree-running experience.

◆ Official HP / https://ishiuchi.or.jp/

[Niigata Prefecture]
Ikenotaira Onsen Alpen Brick Ski Resort | IKENOTAIRA ONSEN ALPEN BRICK

It is efficient and comfortable because it can be rotated with a high-speed capsule lift.

[Tree Run Field] Quad Tree Run Course/Side Tree Run Course

It's extremely accessible, less than 10 minutes from Myoko Kogen IC. It's also convenient that the slopes are right in front of the hotel. The Quad Tree Run Course is located at the top of the 1,622m Ikenodaira Quad Lift, which is halfway up the ski resort. Enjoying a long ride, you can cruise through the trees halfway through, then take a capsule high-speed lift for an efficient and comfortable ride. The Side Tree Course is located at the bottom of the Alpen Brick No. 2 Pair Lift. As its name suggests, it's located at the very side of the slopes, making it a hidden gem.

◆Official website/ https://www.alpenblick-resort.com/

[Niigata Prefecture]
Seki Onsen Ski Resort | SEKI ONSEN

80% uncompacted snow, tree riding in the nature of side country

[Tree Run Field] Within the ski area management area

Seki Onsen is so famous among powder-loving skiers and snowboarders that "heavy snowfall" immediately comes to mind.

Located at the northernmost tip of the Myoko area ski resort, it is the place where the cold air from the Sea of Japan first snows, so the amount of snowfall is exceptionally high. The course design is simple with only two lifts, but the course is full of ups and downs, and you can ski as much as you want.

A whopping 80% of this ski resort is a dream come true for non-compact snow powder lovers. There is no course setting named "The Tree Run Course", but the whole area is free to slide, so you can do a tree run in the so-called boundary area between the course and the forest. In addition, Seki Onsen's "Backcountry Powder Guide Course" is a so-called side country that is easy to access from the slopes, and you can enjoy tree riding in nature.

◆Official website/ http://sekionsen.jp/

[Nagano Prefecture]
Ryuo Ski Park

A new tree run course has been created for Ryuo's famous "Kiotoshi" (tree dropping) and has been renamed "Kiotoshi Bowl"!

Ryuo Ski Park is located on the mountainside of Mount Ryuo, towering 1,930m above sea level in the Shiga area of Nagano Prefecture. In addition to the dry powder snow that is unique to the Hokushin area, the park is also attractive for its panoramic views that stretch from the Northern Alps all the way to Sado Island.

This season, the long-awaited tree run area has opened. It consists of three areas located halfway up the slope, directly below the ropeway summit station, and is adjacent to Ryuo's famous "Kiotoshi Course," where powdery snow accumulates. With the opening of the area, the name of the course has also been changed to "Kiotoshi Bowl," and as its name suggests, it is a must-see new spot where you can enjoy tree running in a magnificent natural landscape that spreads out in a semicircular shape.

On the ungroomed course, with a maximum gradient of 36 degrees and a length of 1,400m, you can enjoy long runs with changing scenery, stream terrain that gives you the feeling of riding a wave, and the thrill and exhilaration of sliding through the trees. There is also a tree run area at the summit that can be enjoyed by intermediate skiers. With a gentle slope with an average gradient of 10 degrees, you can easily enjoy tree runs. What's more, the area is surrounded on both sides by ski resort courses, so you can easily return to the course without getting lost.

◆ Official HP / https://ryuoo.com/winter/

[Nagano Prefecture]
Madarao Kogen Ski Resort | MADARAO KOGEN

Madarao, which boasts one of the largest number of tree run courses in Japan, is located here.

[Tree Run Field] Rabbit, Powder Theater, Powder Wave 2, River Line, Adventure Isle, Crystal Bowl, Bear Course , Serow Course, NINJA, SAWA Natural Pip e, SAWA, SAWAⅡ

Madarao Kogen is characterized by a course layout that makes the most of the undulating terrain. Because most of the courses face the northern slopes, Madarao Kogen is covered with high-quality snow repeatedly, so you can fully enjoy the powder. The deep powder is also called "still pow".

In particular, there are 15 tree run courses in total, including the tangram ski circus that runs through the trees. Their number and quality are overwhelming. With a variety of courses that take advantage of the rich terrain, Madarao allows anyone of any skill level, from hardcore powder freaks to family skiers, to enjoy the fun of powder and tree runs.

◆ Official HP / https://www.madarao.jp/ski

[Nagano Prefecture]
Togari Onsen Ski Resort｜TOGARI ONSEN

Tree run while admiring the spectacular view of Shinano-daira

[Tree Run Field] Rabbit Course

Togari Onsen is very easily accessible, taking about 15 minutes by car or 25 minutes by shuttle bus from JR Iiyama Station. It also features an outstanding view of Shinano-daira. In addition to the abundant snowfall and good snow quality, you can also enjoy the tree run course and the uncompacted snow course. The Rabbit Course is an uncompacted snow course with a maximum slope of 32 degrees and an average slope of 26 degrees, entered from the Rabbit 4 lift. This is a natural tree run course that leaves the trees intact, allowing you to enjoy natural bumps and a variety of terrain. It's comfortable because you can turn the lift.

◆ Official website / https://togari.jp/winter/

[Nagano Prefecture]
YAMABOKU WIRD SNOW PARK｜ YAMABOKU WIRD SNOW PARK

70% of the slope is a natural slope with uncompacted snow.

[Tree Runfield] Air Screen Rose

Yamaboku Wild Snow Park is located in a corner of Shiga Kogen UNESCO Ecopark, on the southern slope of Mt. Kasagatake, at an elevation of 2,076m. The slopes are at an altitude of 1,500m to 1,700m, so they are covered in light, natural powder snow, and 70% of the slopes are ungroomed, making it a ski resort perfect for powder lovers.

Yamaboku also offers a completely ungroomed area that is open on limited dates and with limited numbers of people, as well as the 13km Takochi Tour Course that connects Yamaboku with Yamada Onsen Ski Resort, truly offering powder fields in the wild. Not only can you enjoy plenty of tree runs amidst this wild nature, but there are also spots where you can enjoy tree runs within the slopes.

The Takochi Tour Course is scheduled to be open from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from January 10, 2026 (Saturday) to February 23, 2026 (National Holiday). In addition to the lift fee, to ski on the Takochi Tour Course, you will need to submit a mountain entry form and pay a contribution (3,000 yen per person).

◆ Official HP / https://yamaboku.co.jp/

[Nagano Prefecture]
Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort｜HAKUBA CORTINA

High degree of freedom as you can ski anywhere except in areas where skiing is prohibited

[Tree Run Field] Within the ski area management area

Hakuba Cortina is located at the northernmost point of HAKUBA VALLEY, which stretches from north to south.

This is because cold air from the Sea of Japan crosses over the Northern Alps and first drops snow on Cortina, which is in the northernmost part of the country. In addition to having a high powder hit rate, it also features plenty of steep slopes for powder riding. Seven lifts are built on the course layout sandwiched between two ridges on the left and right from the base. The outside of the course is open as a "self-responsibility area" so that you can enjoy the natural nature and the finest powder snow. With a high degree of freedom that allows you to ski anywhere other than areas where skiing is prohibited, you can enjoy tree runs on slopes with a variety of slopes and topography.

◆ Official HP / https://www.hgp.co.jp/cortina/ski/index.html

[Nagano]
Hakuba47 Winter Sports Park | HAKUBA VALLEY

Registration required [Hakuba47] Tree Riding Zone is your target

[Tree Runfield] Tree Riding Zone/Tree Area

Of all the ski resorts in HAKUBA VALLEY, this one is the most north facing. The ski slopes are located at an altitude of 820m to 1,614m, and most of the slopes face northeast, so the snow quality is excellent. 47 is considered the mecca of snow parks in Japan, but it is actually a high-spec environment for powder riding.

There are two types of areas where you can enjoy tree running. One of the spots is called the ``Tree Area/Uncompacted Snow'' and is dotted around the mountain. You can enter freely here, no registration required. There are nine ``tree areas'' of varying sizes, all of which are outside the course and deep into the forest. There are 4 locations with ``uncompacted snow'', which are somewhat compact and located on the slopes.

The other type is the ``registration-based tree riding zone,'' which has two locations. As only members can ski in the forest, members must register in advance at the school center. After agreeing to the skiing rules, you will be allowed to tree ride within the zone while wearing bibs. It's for registered users only, so I'm happy that it tends to be empty.

◆ Official HP / https://www.hakuba47.co.jp/winter/

[Nagano Prefecture]
Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field｜HAKUBA IWATAKE SNOW FIELD

This is also true of Hakuba's dark horse tree run, which has low powder competition!

[Tree Runfield] VIEW α

Iwatake has a strong image of basic skiing in the Hakuba area, but in fact it has the perfect terrain for freeriding and has a dark horse presence with a low powder competition rate, so it is secretly popular among locals. The slopes are designed to preserve the charm of the natural topography, with large bowls, undulating ridges and creeks that are uncompacted, making for great powder areas after fresh snow. The non-compacted snow course has expanded year by year, and now it has expanded to 7 courses.

IWATAKE BACK BOWL's tree run course is not too close between the trees and is slippery, but the slope makes it suitable for intermediate and advanced skiers.

◆ Official HP / https://iwatake-mountain-resort.com/winter

[Gunma Prefecture]
Kawaba Ski Resort｜KAWABA

Powder tree riding at “OFF THE PISTE”

[Tree Runfield] OFF THE PISTE

Despite being easily accessible, just a two-hour drive from central Tokyo, Kawaba is one of Gunma Prefecture's snowiest areas. With a base elevation of 1,870m, dry snow accumulates. In addition to the powder, the area is rich in natural terrain, making it popular with freeriders.

"OFF THE PISTE" is an off-piste area where you can enjoy ungroomed powder and tree riding. This is an exclusive area that is only accessible to those who take a one-hour training course held several times a month, sign a consent form, and wear an armband. There is a sign like the one in the photo at the entrance to the course.

Off the Piste has four areas at the top of the slopes, from "OPT I" to "OPT IV," and this season a fifth area, "OPT V," has been added, bringing the total to five areas, with even more ungroomed snow environments. Each area is unique, so it's definitely worth trying out.

◆ Official HP / https://www.kawaba.co.jp/snow/

[Gifu Prefecture]
Takasu Snow Park & Dynaland｜TAKASU SNOWPARK & DYNALAND

It's so fun that you won't get bored even if you spend the whole day climbing the tree run course.

[Tree Run Field] Takasu Snow Park/BUNA, NARA, TOCHI Dynaland/Otome Course, Umanose, Challenge, Paradise Tree Run Area

Being located at an altitude of 1,550m in the Okumino area of Gifu, this ski resort is popular among powder enthusiasts as it can be expected to have good powder snow.

You can freely go back and forth between Dynaland and Takasu Snow Park, which are connected at the top of the slope, so you can ski 29 different courses and double the fun. The uncompacted snow course is also expanding year by year. There are a total of seven tree run areas at both ski resorts. Takasu Snow Park has three tree run courses open: BUNA, NARA, and TOCHI. Enjoy powder to your heart's content on the north-facing slope. Dynaland has four areas: Otome Course, Umanose, Challenge, and Paradise Tree Run Area.

Because they are scattered in the mountains, the direction and degree of the slopes, the density of the trees, the distance, and the undulations of the topography vary. You can enjoy powder to your heart's content on the tree run course on the north-facing slope, and there are many points where you can play with mash like the one in the photo. Even if you climb the tree run course for a whole day, you will not get bored at all.

A 15-passenger 2,700m long gondola carries you to the top of the slopes, so even on bad weather days you can slide around and around from the top to various areas without feeling cold.

◆ Official HP / https://www.takasu.gr.jp/


Top altitude 994m	Longest run 3,500m	Elevation difference 594m	Maximum slope 30°


37 courses	14 lifts	4 gondolas	ropeway -book


Top altitude 1,200m	Longest run 5,300m	Elevation difference 940m	Maximum slope 40°


22 courses	7 lifts	2 gondolas	ropeway -book


Top altitude 1,180m	Longest run 4,050m	Elevation difference 610m	Maximum slope 37°

A ski resort with a great tree running area, where tree running is popular

[Hokkaido] Rusutsu Resort｜RUSUTSU RESORT

Tree riding in a beautiful forest so relaxing that it is called “forest bathing”

[Hokkaido] Niseko Tokyu Grand HIRAFU｜NISEKO TOKYU Grand HIRAFU

A famous spot where you can enjoy fantastic tree riding at night

[Hokkaido] Kiroro Snow World｜KIRORO SNOW WORLD

Kiroro's tree run has a great powder reset rate.

[Hokkaido] Kamui Ski Links｜KAMUI SKI LINKS

Distance, slope, and terrain changes are suitable for experts.

[Hokkaido] Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU

Aim for the ``Advanced-only area'' inside the ski resort

[Hokkaido] Sapporo Teine

A sparse forest nature zone including “Kitakabe” with an elevation difference of over 400m

[Iwate Prefecture] Appi Kogen｜APPI KOGEN

The total area of ​​the five ever-expanding tree run areas is 600,000㎡!

[Iwate Prefecture] Natsuyu Kogen Ski Resort | GETO KOGEN