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

Tree riding in a beautiful forest is so relaxing it's sometimes referred to as "forest bathing"

[Tree Run Field] Heavenly Spirit Course and Forest 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.

The Heavenly Spirit course at the back of Mt. Isola is one of Rusutsu's most popular tree runs, boasting immense popularity among locals who say, "The tree runs here are the best!" The smooth southeast-facing course with an average gradient of 20-25 degrees forms a stream, and it's fun to ride while using the walls on both sides to guide your movements. It's a place where you can glide through the trees and have fun with the undulating terrain that's full of natural features

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 run has been spread overseas, with a foreign film crew even making a movie titled "SHINRIN-YOKU" (Forest Bathing). This is a 2019-20 production created by HEAD's global team, set in the forests of Rusutsu. Rusutsu's tree run, filmed with a unique sensibility, is fascinating

◆Official website: https://rusutsu.com/

[Hokkaido]
Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu

A great spot for fantastic tree riding at night

[Tree Run Field] A forested area within the ski resort management area

With a wide variety of courses, including powder, ungroomed, groomed, and tree runs, Grand Hirafu is the best in the Niseko area. All courses vary in slope and undulation, and the rich natural terrain is covered with abundant powder, said to be the birthplace of JAPOW, making it a must-see for skiers. In fact, the tree runs are also amazing

That's because, although Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu doesn't have named courses, it has a large number of tree-running points, including the panoramic course. There are many trees growing naturally all over the place, so you can ski naturally among them, and you can also enjoy it on the side of the courses. The appeal is that you can challenge yourself to tree runs that suit your skiing level anywhere. The photo above is from such a situation. Due to Hokkaido's latitude, the tree line is low, so even in spots that are not very high in altitude, the trees are not too close together. This is another reason why tree runs can be enjoyed at Hokkaido's ski resorts in general

At Nise Tokyu Grand Hirafu, you can enjoy tree runs at night. The area and variety of night courses are the largest in Japan. The beauty of the trees illuminated by night lighting and the fantastical forest skiing are truly exceptional

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

[Hokkaido]
Kiroro Snow World | KIRORO SNOW WORLD

Kiroro tree run with an amazing powder reset rate

[Tree Run Field] Off-piste area

It's close to Sapporo city, so even if you're staying in Sapporo, it's easily accessible as a day trip. And yet, with its heavy snowfall, it's highly popular with powder-loving Sapporo city skiers and dedicated freeskiers visiting from Honshu. It's a popular resort frequented by riders from both within and outside Hokkaido.

It's relatively empty, and snow falls almost every night, resetting the course conditions. The low temperatures mean the high-quality powder stays fresh from the start of the season, and the abundant natural terrain adds to its endless appeal. With the exception of completely off-limits areas, Kiroro has off-piste areas within the ski resort that can be accessed. Because it's a natural forest, you can enjoy tree runs among the beautiful white trees, as shown in the photo above.

◆Official website: https://www.kiroro.co.jp/ja/

[Hokkaido]
Kamui Ski Links

Distance, slope, and terrain changes all make this a favorite among experts

[Tree Run Field] Deep powder, fresh powder

Kamui is iconic for its box-shaped four-seater gondola, which is rare these days. Kamui's ungroomed runs account for roughly 30% of the entire ski resort, so powder lovers will have plenty to enjoy. In addition to the ungroomed snow that spreads across the summit, we also recommend the ungroomed forest run on the north slope and the deep powder run. For

tree run runs, the "Deep Powder" and "Fresh Powder" runs on the left side of the gondola are highly recommended. These authentic runs are long, ranging from 600 to 800m in length, with slopes of 30 to 32 degrees and a moderate amount of mash, making them a favorite among experts. Even skiers with an eye for terrain will be pleased.

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

[Hokkaido]
Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU

Aim for the "Advanced Ski Area" within the ski resort

[Tree Run Field] An area open only to advanced players

Hoshino Resort Tomamu is a symbol of eastern Hokkaido. Despite being a resort, the resort offers a wide variety of options, including advanced-only areas, CAT tours, and backcountry tours, tailoring the ski area for powder and tree-skiing.

The first choice for casual tree-running is the advanced-only area within the ski resort. The forest offers a rich terrain with undulating slopes and undulations. Furthermore, Tomamu is one of the coldest areas in Hokkaido. The shady forests maintain excellent snow quality, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural terrain in powder. This location also offers the dreamy conditions for twirling around on a hooded quad lift.

Before entering the advanced-only area, you must sign a consent form and wear a helmet. You could easily spend the whole day here, but be sure to follow the rules and enjoy the lifts efficiently.

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

[Hokkaido]
Sapporo Teine | SAPPORO TEINE

A nature zone of sparse forest, including the "North Wall" with an elevation difference of over 400m

[Tree Run Field] North wall

It's extremely accessible, just a 40-minute drive from central Sapporo. At over 1,000 meters above sea level, you can expect to enjoy powder snow riding with views of Sapporo city and Ishikari Bay

Teine's tree run spots are located in the sparse forest nature zone, including the famous "North Wall Course" with an elevation difference of over 400m. With an ungroomed slope with a maximum gradient of 36 degrees, this is a spot for advanced skiers to enjoy tree runs with varying terrain. The snow is exquisite when riding at top speed. Another selling point of Teine is that you can enjoy riding while looking out at the ocean

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

[Iwate Prefecture]
Appi Kogen

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

[Tree Run Field] 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 website: https://www.appi.co.jp/

[Iwate Prefecture]
Geto Kogen Ski Resort | GETO KOGEN

A one-of-a-kind tree running paradise with heavy snow, powder, and tree running!

[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 a video introducing tree running, and it clearly conveys the beauty of Geto's forest, the pleasant feeling of sliding down into the snow while kicking up powder, and the richness of Geto's tree running, which can be enjoyed in all directions

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

[Niigata Prefecture]
Maiko Snow Resort

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

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

Only one minute from Shiozawa Ishiuchi IC, this location is incredibly convenient for those who drive. The slopes tend to be relatively gentle, giving the impression that it's suitable for families and beginners/intermediate skiers. However, the reality is completely different for freeskiers.

The number of ungroomed runs that make use of the natural terrain has steadily increased, and there are now five. Many of the runs face north, and the powdery Uonuma snow has accumulated, making it the perfect freeride zone. The Okuzoeji area is at the very back of the ski resort, so the snow quality is excellent, and there are relatively few moguls along the Okuzoeji Quad Lift, which returns to the powder slopes when it snows. You can also enjoy the spectacular views of Okuzoeji.

The Gungun Course and Haglöfs Tree Run Area in the Okusoji area are great for tree running. The trees are spaced a little tightly together, but the slope is just right, allowing for comfortable skiing. Advance registration is required for skiing, and wearing an armband and helmet is recommended. No matter where you ski down, you can always return to the course at the end, making it perfect for beginners to tree running

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

[Niigata Prefecture]
Yuzawa Nakazato Snow Resort

A challenging tree run that's completely different from the image of a family/beginner run

[Tree Run Field] G (un-groomed 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 website: https://www.maiko-resort.com/

[Niigata Prefecture]
Kagura Ski Resort | KAGURA

Enjoy the change in rhythm during long runs and make it a challenge

[Tree Run Field] Forest Expert Course

Kagura is easily accessible by car or Shinkansen. The number of powder-loving skiers from the Tokyo area who call this place home continues to grow year after year. Many skiers enjoy the side country accessible from the lifts, or the backcountry, which can be accessed by passing through a gate at the top of the No. 5 Romance Lift, but for tree runs, the "Rinkan Expert Course" is the place to go.

The coniferous forest at the very top of the mountain, at an elevation of 1,845 meters, is near the tree line, so the trees are spaced far apart, as shown in the photo above. It's a fantastic feeling to ski down a big turn, kicking up a spray of powder. The trail then transitions to a dense broadleaf forest, where the trees become even denser. Enjoy the rhythmic changes over the long runs, making it a challenging experience.

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

Charmant Hiuchi Ski Resort, Niigata Prefecture

Tree running in one of Japan's longest non-stop powder areas at 1,100m

[Tree Run Fields] Tobiyama, Oriya, Princess Bowl, Jackson, Zen

Charmant is famous for being a heavy snow area, and during the peak season it consistently receives over 500cm of snow, with the amount of snowfall being on a whole other level. What's more, it's dry powder and the snow quality is superb. The ski resort, which has created an environment to provide this abundant snow in the best possible way, has adopted the concepts of "uncompacted snow" and "nature as it is." They have made a conscious effort not to compact the snow, and currently over 65% of the resort is set up as ungroomed areas and runs, which is truly a blessing

Thanks to this, tree runs can be enjoyed at a level suited to your skiing ability. Tobiyama is one of the longest non-stop powder areas in Japan, stretching 1,100m, and is a technical course with varying slopes and standing trees, making it suitable for advanced skiers. Oriya, with its densely spaced trees, is suitable for intermediate to advanced skiers. Princess Bowl is a sparsely forested course with few standing trees and a steep incline, making it a simply fun course. Jackson's slope narrows as you go lower, allowing you to enjoy the changes from forest to stream terrain. If you're new to tree runs, Zen is the place for you. The trees are perfectly spaced, the slope is gentle with a maximum gradient of 21 degrees, and the course is 278m long, making it perfect for getting used to tree runs

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

Ishiuchi Maruyama Ski Resort, Niigata Prefecture

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

[Tree Run Field] Tree run area (peak and mid-mountain)

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 website: https://ishiuchi.or.jp/

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

The capsules can be rotated by high-speed lifts, making them efficient and comfortable

[Tree Run Field] Quad tree run course and 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% of the snow is ungroomed, so enjoy tree riding in the natural side country

[Tree Run Field] Within the ski resort management area

Seki Onsen is so famous among powder-loving skiers and snowboarders that "heavy snow" immediately comes to mind when you think of it. Located at the northernmost ski resort in the Myoko area, it is the first place to see snowfall when cold air flows in from the Sea of Japan, resulting in by far the largest snowfall.

The course design is simple, with only two lifts, but the courses are full of ups and downs, and you can ski as much as you want everywhere. A whopping 80% of the resort is a dream come true for those who love ungroomed powder. There is no course designated as the "Tree Run Course," but the entire area is open to skiers, so you can tree run

in the area where the course meets the forest. Seki Onsen's "Backcountry Powder Guide Course" is also easily accessible from the slopes, so you can enjoy tree riding in the natural surroundings.

◆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 website: https://ryuoo.com/winter/

[Nagano Prefecture]
Madarao Kogen Ski Resort | MADARAO KOGEN

Madarao boasts one of the largest number of tree running courses in Japan

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

Madarao Kogen is known for its course layout that makes the most of its undulating terrain. Many of the courses face the north slope, meaning that good quality snow falls repeatedly at Madarao Kogen, allowing you to enjoy plenty of powder. This deep powder is also known as "mada pow."

The tree run courses, which take you through the trees, are particularly impressive, with a total of 15 courses, including those at the adjacent Tangram Ski Circus. The number and quality of these courses is impressive. With a wide variety of courses that make use of the abundant terrain, Madarao allows everyone, from hardcore powder lovers to family skiers, to enjoy the fun of powder and tree runs, regardless of their level

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

[Nagano Prefecture]
Togari Onsen Ski Resort | TOGARI ONSEN

Tree running while admiring the spectacular view of Shinanodaira

[Tree Run Field] Rabbit Course

Togari Onsen is easily accessible, about 15 minutes by car or 25 minutes by shuttle bus from JR Iiyama Station. It also boasts an outstanding view of the Shinano-daira area. In addition to the abundant snowfall and excellent snow quality, you can also enjoy tree run courses and ungroomed courses. The Rabbit Course is an ungroomed course with a maximum gradient of 32 degrees and an average gradient of 26 degrees, entered via the Rabbit 4 lift. This natural tree run course features intact trees, and you can enjoy natural moguls and a variety of terrain. The lifts are convenient for skiing

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

[Nagano Prefecture]
YAMABOKU WIRD SNOW PARK

70% of the slopes are natural, ungroomed slopes

[Tree Run Field] 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 website: https://yamaboku.co.jp/

[Nagano Prefecture]
Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort | HAKUBA CORTINA

High degree of freedom to ski anywhere except in restricted areas

[Tree Run Field] Within the ski resort management area

Located at the northernmost tip of the north-south stretch of HAKUBA VALLEY, Hakuba Cortina receives 10 to 20 cm more snow than other ski resorts. This is because cold air from the Sea of Japan flows over the Northern Alps and first drops snow on Cortina, the northernmost resort. Not only is the powder hit rate high, but the resort is also notable for its abundance of steep slopes perfect for powder riding.

Seven lifts run along the course layout, sandwiched between two ridges on either side of the base. To allow visitors to enjoy the untouched nature and superb powder snow, the off-course areas are open to the public as "personal responsibility areas." With a high degree of freedom, skiers are free to ski anywhere except in the no-skiing areas, and can enjoy tree runs on slopes with a variety of steepness and terrain.

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

[Nagano Prefecture]
Hakuba47 Winter Sports Park | HAKUBA VALLEY

The registration-based [Hakuba47] tree riding zone is a must-see

[Tree Run Field] Tree riding zone and tree area

This is the most north-facing of all the ski resorts in HAKUBA VALLEY. The slopes range from 820m to 1,614m above sea level, and many of the slopes face northeast, ensuring excellent snow quality. While considered Japan's snow park mecca, 47 also boasts a high-spec environment for powder riding.

There are two types of tree riding areas. The first is the "Un-groomed Tree Area," scattered across the mountain. No registration is required. There are nine "Tree Areas," varying in size, and most are located deep in the forest, almost off the slopes. There are four "Un-groomed Snow" areas, all of which are somewhat more compact and within the slopes.

The other type is the "Registration-Required Tree Riding Zone," with two locations. These are located in the forest and are open to members only, and membership registration is required at the school center in advance. After agreeing to the rules, wearing a bib allows tree riding within the zone. Since only registered members are allowed, the zone tends to be empty, which is a welcome development.

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

[Nagano Prefecture]
Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field

This is also the case with Hakuba's dark horse tree run, which has little competition for powder!

[Tree Run Field] VIEW α

Within the Hakuba area, Iwatake has a strong image of being a ski resort for basic skiing, but in fact it has the perfect terrain for freeriding, and is a dark horse with little competition for powder, making it secretly popular among locals. The slopes are designed to retain the charm of the natural terrain, with large bowls, undulating ridges and streams that are ungroomed, creating the best powder areas after a fresh snowfall. The number of ungroomed runs has been increasing year by year, and currently stands at seven

The tree run course at IWATAKE BACK BOWL is easy to ski on as the trees are not too close together, but it is steep so is best suited to intermediate to advanced skiers

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

[Gunma Prefecture]
Kawaba Ski Resort | KAWABA

Powder tree riding at "Off the Piste"

[Tree Run Field] 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 website: https://www.kawaba.co.jp/snow/

[Gifu Prefecture]
Takasu Snow Park & Dynaland

It's so much fun you won't get bored even if you spend the whole day climbing tree run courses

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

Located at an altitude of 1,550m in the Oku-Mino area of Gifu, this ski resort is sure to attract powder lovers with its excellent quality snow. Dynaland and Takasu Snow Park are connected at the top of the slopes, allowing you to freely move between the two, offering 29 different runs and doubling the fun.

The number of ungroomed runs is also increasing every year. There are a total of seven tree run areas at both ski resorts. Takasu Snow Park offers three tree run runs: BUNA, NARA, and TOCHI. Enjoy powder to your heart's content on the north-facing slopes. Dynaland has four tree run areas: the Otome Run, Umanose, Challenge, and Paradise.

Because they are scattered across the mountain, the slope direction, incline, tree density, distance, and terrain undulations vary. On the tree run course facing north, you can enjoy powder to your heart's content, and there are also many spots where you can play with mash, as shown in the photo. You will never get bored even if you spend the whole day climbing tree run courses

A 2,700m-long gondola that can carry 15 people will take you to the top of the slope, so even on bad weather you won't get cold, and it's great that you can ride the gondola around from the top to various areas

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


Top elevation : 994m	The longest run is 3,500m	Elevation difference: 594m	maximum slope 30°


37 courses	14 lifts	4 gondolas	Ropeway - Book


Top altitude 1,200m	The longest run is 5,300m	Elevation difference: 940m	maximum slope 40°


22 courses	7 lifts	2 gondolas	Ropeway - Book


Top elevation 1,180m	The longest run is 4,050m	Elevation difference: 610m	maximum slope 37°


Top elevation : 1,304m	Longest run: 5,500m	Elevation difference: 684m	maximum slope 34°


Top elevation 702m	Longest run: 2,000m	Altitude difference 244m	maximum slope 32°


Number of courses: 5	2 lifts	Gondola - Unit	Ropeway - Book

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

[Hokkaido] Rusutsu Resort

Tree riding in a beautiful forest is so relaxing it's sometimes referred to as "forest bathing"

[Hokkaido] Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu

A great spot for fantastic tree riding at night

[Hokkaido] Kiroro Snow World | KIRORO SNOW WORLD

Kiroro tree run with an amazing powder reset rate

[Hokkaido] Kamui Ski Links