A permanent ski and snowboard air mat facility, "JAPAN SAKAI Big Air Park," has been completed in Sakai Town, Ibaraki Prefecture. It had its grand opening on August 1st, 2026 (Saturday)
This facility is a year-round training center equipped with a big air jump ramp and large air mats, designed with the possibility of hosting world championships.
In addition to courses for advanced skiers and professionals, it also has kickers that can be used by beginners and children.
A commemorative ceremony was held on the opening day, and Hiroto Ogiwara, a native of Ushiku City, Ibaraki Prefecture, and a member of the Japanese team for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, gave a demonstration
A super-big course with a total height of 46m and a total length of 130m
The "Big Super Big Course," the heart of the facility, is approximately 46 meters high, 130 meters long, and 28 meters wide. The maximum slope angle of the approach is 40 degrees, the approach length is approximately 57 meters, and the lip angle is set at 36 degrees
Designed to host world championships and provide training for top-level athletes, the facility is undoubtedly one of the largest in the world.
Its presence is clearly visible even when driving along nearby roads.
Four courses tailored to different skill levels
In addition to the Big Course and Super Big Course, there are also a "Beginner Course" and a "Small Course."
The Beginner Small Course is approximately 8m high, 48m long, and 16m wide. The maximum slope angle of the approach is 20 degrees, and the lip angle is 23 degrees.
The Beginner Course is for beginners and children, while the Small Course is for beginner to intermediate riders. It serves as a training base for top athletes, as well as a place for daily practice and nurturing the next generation of riders.
Hiroto Ogihara appointed as ambassador
Hiroto Ogihara, a native of Ushiku City, Ibaraki Prefecture, and others participated in the opening ceremony. They were appointed as ambassadors for "JAPAN SAKAI Big Air Park." Ogihara commented, "This is a training facility large enough to host world championships, so I would be happy if it becomes a place where athletes from overseas come to train."
Furthermore, a demonstration was presented at the end of the commemorative ceremony, drawing loud cheers from the invited local elementary and junior high school students and other attendees
A new environment has been created in Japan where riders can repeatedly practice jumps of a size suitable for world championships throughout the year.
It will be interesting to see what kind of riders emerge from this environment. We look forward to future developments.
Information
JAPAN SAKAI Big Air Park
Facility Overview
Location: 1547 Nishiizumida, Sakai-machi, Sarushima-gun, Ibaraki Prefecture, and other locations
Courses: Beginner Course, Small Course, Big Course, Super Big Course
Website:https://www.js-bigairpark.com/