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 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 tree run with an amazing powder reset rate

[Tree Run Field] Off-piste area

Located close to Sapporo city center, Kiroro is easily accessible for day trips even while staying in Sapporo. Yet, it boasts heavy snowfall, making it a favorite among powder-loving Sapporo city skiers and serious freeskiers who travel from Honshu. It

's a popular resort frequented by riders from both within and outside Hokkaido. It's relatively uncrowded, and snow falls almost every night, resetting the course conditions. The low temperatures ensure high-quality powder for a long period from the beginning of the season, and the rich natural terrain adds to its many attractions. Kiroro has off-piste areas accessible within the ski resort, excluding completely off-limits areas. Because it's a natural forest, you can enjoy tree runs amidst 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, now a rare sight, is iconic for its box-shaped, four-seater gondola. Ungroomed courses make up about 30% of the entire ski resort, so powder lovers will find plenty to enjoy. In addition to the ungroomed areas at the summit, the ungroomed tree runs on the north slope and the deep powder course are highly recommended. For

tree runs, the "Deep Powder" and "Fresh Powder" courses on the left side of the gondola are top picks. With distances of 600-800m, slopes of 30-32°, and just the right amount of slush, these are challenging courses that will appeal to experienced skiers. Even skiers with a keen eye for terrain will be satisfied.

◆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 Resorts Tomamu is a symbolic landmark in the eastern Hokkaido area. Despite being a resort, it offers a wealth of options, including areas reserved for advanced skiers, CAT tours, and backcountry tours, providing an environment where you can ski in powder and through the trees.

For an easy and enjoyable tree run, the first choice is the area reserved for advanced skiers within the resort. The terrain is varied, with undulations and slopes within the forest. Furthermore, Tomamu is one of the coldest areas in Hokkaido. The snow quality is maintained in good condition in the shaded forest, allowing you to enjoy the fun of the natural terrain in powder. And what's more, you can easily access this area using a hooded quad lift—a truly dreamlike combination of conditions. In

the area reserved for advanced skiers, you must sign an agreement before skiing and wearing a helmet is mandatory. You can spend a whole day here and be completely satisfied, so follow the rules and enjoy yourself to the fullest efficiently using the lift.

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

[Hokkaido]
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 is characterized by its long and large-scale courses, with 21 courses radiating out from the isolated peak of Maemoriyama (1,304m above sea level), including a remarkable 12 long courses exceeding 2km. To accommodate this, highly mobile gondolas and quad lifts are strategically placed, making access between courses quick and easy.

Thanks to the terrain and the advantage of being at 40 degrees north latitude, Appi's snow is fine-grained and doesn't pack down easily. This high-quality powder can be enjoyed over long distances, which has always made Appi popular with freeskiers, but in recent years Appi has attracted even more attention. This is because the ungroomed and tree run areas have been steadily expanding, and the total area of the five areas now covers 600,000 square meters! There are two vast tree fields on Nishimoriyama in the back and three on Maemoriyama in the front. Appi's enthusiasm for tree runs is considerable.

Not only is the terrain unique, but the variety of trees is also abundant, and tree runs while enjoying the beauty of Tohoku's nature are truly special. In particular, the "Attack" section of the Nishimori ski resort boasts steep slopes and slushy terrain, offering plenty of challenging runs. Entry is at a designated location, where you receive an armband and are required to wear a helmet before skiing.

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

[Iwate Prefecture]
Geto Kogen Ski Resort

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 | 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)

Just a minute from the Shiozawa-Ishiuchi Interchange! This location is incredibly convenient for those traveling by car. The slopes are mostly relatively gentle, giving the impression that it's suitable for families and beginners/intermediate skiers. However, for freeskiers, it's quite different.

Ungroomed courses that take advantage of the rich natural terrain are constantly being expanded, and there are now five of them. Many of the courses face north, and the fluffy Uonuma powder snow piles up, making them excellent freeride zones. The Okusoechi area is at the very back of the ski resort, so the snow quality is outstanding, and the area along the Okusoechi Quad Lift has relatively few moguls, transforming into a powder slope when it snows. You can also enjoy spectacular views overlooking Okusoechi.

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 both car and Shinkansen (bullet train). The number of powder-loving skiers from the Tokyo metropolitan area who consider it their home and cherish it continues to grow year after year. Many skiers enjoy the sidecountry accessible from the lifts, or the backcountry accessed by entering through the gate from the top of the 5th Romance Lift, but from the perspective of tree runs, the "Forest Expert Course" is

the place to go. The coniferous forest that spreads across the top of the mountain at an altitude of 1,845m is near the treeline, so the trees are spaced far apart, as shown in the photo above. It feels great to ski down, kicking up powder spray with big turns. Further down, the forest becomes denser with broadleaf trees, so the density of the trees increases. You can enjoy the change in rhythm during the long run, making it challenging.

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

[Niigata Prefecture]
Charmant Hiuchi Ski Resort

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/

[Niigata Prefecture]
Ishiuchi Maruyama Ski Resort

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

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

At Ishiuchi Maruyama, light snow falls and accumulates, brought by seasonal winds blowing in from the Sea of Japan. January, in particular, sees heavy snowfall, providing plenty of delicious Uonuma powder snow comparable to Uonuma Koshihikari rice, attracting hungry powder enthusiasts.

Despite being a long-established ski resort with a 70-year history, Ishiuchi Maruyama is constantly innovating, offering new facilities and services every year. Lift tickets are time-based. The 4-hour and 8.5-hour tickets, used consecutively, allow you to enjoy the slopes for a full duration, from free time to night skiing.

In the two tree run areas, one at the summit and one in the mid-mountain area, plenty of powder accumulates among the beautiful trees, making it fun to ride rhythmically along the natural terrain's bumps and dips. However, helmets are mandatory. Make the most of your time-based tickets and enjoy the tree runs to the fullest while following the rules.

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

[Niigata Prefecture]
Ikenotaira Onsen Alpen Brick Ski Resort

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 famous among powder-loving skiers and snowboarders, with "heavy snowfall" being the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the name. Located at the northernmost point of the Myoko area ski resorts, it is the first place where cold air from the Sea of Japan brings snow, resulting in exceptionally large snowfall.

The course design is simple, with only two lifts, but the undulating terrain means you can ski anywhere you like. Amazingly, 80% of the slopes are ungroomed, making it a dream ski resort for powder lovers. There isn't a designated "tree run course," but since you can ski anywhere, you can do tree runs in the areas that are the boundary between the courses and the trees.

In addition, Seki Onsen's "backcountry powder guide course" is easily accessible from the groomed slopes, offering a sidecountry experience where 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 Website:https://ryuoo.com/winter/

[Nagano Prefecture]
Madarao Kogen Ski Resort

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

[Tree Run Fields] Rabbit, Powder Theater, Powder Wave 2, Riverline, Adventure Isle, Crystal Bowl,Bear Course,Kamoshika Course, NINJA, SAWA Natural Pipe,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 on the southern slope of Mt. Kasagatake, at an altitude of 2,076m, within the Shiga Kogen UNESCO Eco-Park. With slopes ranging from 1,500m to 1,700m in altitude, it boasts light, natural powder snow, and 70% of the slopes are ungroomed, making it an irresistible ski resort for powder lovers.

Yamaboku also offers a completely ungroomed area that is open on limited dates and for limited numbers of people, as well as the 13km-long "Takochi Tour Course" connecting Yamaboku and Yamada Onsen Ski Resort, truly providing a wild powder field. In addition to enjoying plenty of tree runs amidst this wild nature, there are also spots within the groomed slopes where you can enjoy tree runs.

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

Hakuba Cortina, located at the northernmost point of the north-south stretching HAKUBA VALLEY, receives 10-20cm more snow than other ski resorts. This is because cold air flowing in from the Sea of Japan crosses the Northern Alps and first drops snow at Cortina, the northernmost point. It is characterized by a high rate of powder hits and an abundance of steep slopes suitable for powder riding.

Seven lifts run along the course layout, which is sandwiched between two ridges on either side of the base. To allow skiers to enjoy the unspoiled nature and superb powder snow, the area outside the designated courses is open as a "self-responsibility area." With a high degree of freedom, where you can ski anywhere except in the prohibited areas, you can enjoy tree runs on slopes with a variety of gradients and terrains.

◆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 northernmost of the ski resorts in HAKUBA VALLEY. The slopes are located at an altitude of 820m to 1,614m, and most of the slopes face northeast, resulting in excellent snow quality. 47 is considered a mecca for snow parks in Japan, but it also boasts a high-spec environment for powder riding.

There are two main types of areas where you can enjoy tree riding. One is called the "Tree Area - Un-groomed," which is scattered throughout the mountain. No registration is required, and you can enter freely. There are nine "Tree Areas" of varying sizes, all of which are almost entirely off-piste and deep in the forest. There are four "Un-groomed" areas, which are somewhat more compact and located within the groomed slopes.

The other type is the "Registered Tree Riding Zone," of which there are two. These are in the forest and only members are allowed to ski, and prior registration at the school center is required. After agreeing to the skiing rules, you are allowed to tree ride in the zone while wearing a bib. Since it's only for registered users, it tends to be less crowded, which is a nice bonus.

◆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 just a two-hour drive from central Tokyo, Kawaba is one of Gunma Prefecture's leading heavy snowfall areas. Its base elevation of 1,870 meters ensures dry snowfall. In addition to powder, its rich natural terrain makes it popular with freeriders.

"OFF THE PISTE" is an off-piste area where you can enjoy ungroomed powder riding and tree riding. It's a restricted area where only those who have taken a one-hour lesson (held a few times a month), signed an agreement, and are wearing an armband are allowed to ski. A sign like the one pictured stands 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 Okumino area of Gifu Prefecture, this ski resort boasts excellent powder snow quality, making it a must-visit for powder enthusiasts. The upper slopes connect Dynaland and Takasu Snow Park, allowing free movement between the two

resorts and double the fun with 29 diverse courses to ski. The ungroomed courses are also expanding year by year. There are a total of seven tree run areas across both resorts. Takasu Snow Park offers three tree run courses: Buna, Nara, and Tochi. These north-facing slopes allow for unrestricted powder skiing. Dynaland offers four tree run areas: Otome Course, Umanose, Challenge, and Paradise Tree Run Area.

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	Longest run: 3,500m	Elevation difference: 594m	maximum slope 30°


courses 37	lifts 14	gondolas Four	Ropeway - Book


Top elevation 1,200m	Longest run: 5,300m	Elevation difference: 940m	maximum slope 40°


courses 22	lifts 7	gondolas Two	Ropeway - Book


Top elevation : 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 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 tree run with an amazing powder reset rate

[Hokkaido]Kamui Ski Links

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

[Hokkaido]Hoshino Resorts Tomamu

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

[Hokkaido]Sapporo Teine

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

[Iwate Prefecture]Appi Kogen

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

[Iwate Prefecture]Geto Kogen Ski Resort