The 2023-24 season is in its final stages, and we are currently in the middle of the spring season. First, let's check out the charms and benefits of spring skiing and snowboarding.
① There is a spring campaign!
There are special benefits such as spring season tickets, lift ticket discounts, coupons, etc. ② Corn snow and granulated snow unique to spring have a different taste from powder
③ The weather is stable and the number of sunny days increases, the sun grows longer So you can play a lot
④ It's not cold!
enthusiast, you will have a sense of security because you will not have to worry about driving on snowy
roads . Season
⑦ Fresh snow falls even in April due to the return of the cold weather! What a fun surprise. Super lucky if you win
……And so on, the spring season is full of good things. This will have no choice but to go out.
A ski resort where you can enjoy a fun spring slide at a great price!
Now that you know what to enjoy in the spring season, let's take a look at the ski resorts where you can "enjoy spring skiing to the fullest" with discounted "spring season tickets" that allow you to ski as much as you want from this time until the end of the season, and spring discounted one-day tickets. .
*The information posted is as of March 29, 2024. Please check the official website of each ski resort for the latest information.
Hokkaido
[Hokkaido]
Niseko｜NISEKO
The final season of NISEKO UNITED has arrived!
Scheduled to be open until April 7th (Sunday) (NISEKO VILLAGE/HANAZONO) | Scheduled to be open until May 6th ( Monday/Shinkyu ) (GRAND HIRAFU/ANNUPRI)
[Spring season]
The climate is stable in spring, so there are many great deals to be had in Niseko, where you can see the beautiful scenery of Mt. Yotei against the blue sky almost every day. Starting March 21st (Thursday), lift tickets at each resort will be priced at spring season rates. Niseko United's all-mountain lift ticket costs 9,500 yen during the regular season, but during the spring season it costs 6,700 yen, a discount of 2,800 yen. In addition, parks will appear in the spring, with two locations in Niseko HANAZONO open until April 7th. Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu will open its Spring Park in early April, and items such as rails, kickers, boxes, and waves will be installed on the high-altitude white birch course where snow still remains.
Spring is also the peak season for the backcountry, which is a major attraction of Niseko, but early spring is also the time when temperatures rise and snow melts, making avalanches more likely to occur. I want to strictly adhere to Niseko rules and ski with the best equipment.
[This kind of ski resort]
About 100 km south of Sapporo, there are four vast ski resorts spread out at the foot of Mt. "Niseko United" consists of places. A list pass common to all mountains allows you to freely come and go, the world-famous finest powder named “JAPOW”, the vast backcountry that can be accessed from the slopes, and the beautiful Mt. Yotei called Ezo Fuji. It is an international resort that attracts guests from all over the world with its attractions such as hot springs full of Japanese atmosphere.
◆ Official HP / https://www.niseko.ne.jp/ja/
[Hokkaido]
Furano Ski Resort｜FURANO
Only the Furano zone is open during the spring season
Scheduled to be open until May 6th ( Monday/Shinkyu
[Spring season]
Furano usually receives about 150 to 200 cm of snow from March to April. The spring ski season is from March 25th (Monday) to May 6th (Monday, holiday), and business hours are from 9:00 to 16:00. A one-day lift ticket, which normally costs 7,000 yen, is now 5,500 yen. There are also great value packages called ``Lift + 1'' that include a 1-day ticket + hot springs, or a 1-day ticket + soft drink. In spring, when there are more sunny days than in the high season, it's worth just looking at the magnificent nature of Hokkaido that can be seen from the lift.
``Pond Skimming'' is a unique event that is held to mark the arrival of the spring season. It involves crossing a 10m long pond on skis or snowboards, and is fun both to watch and to participate in. This year it will be held on March 31st (Sunday) from 13:00. Check the official website for details!
[This kind of ski resort]
Furano is a complex resort that represents Hokkaido, operated by the Prince Hotel Group, with a magnificent view of Mt. Tokachi and the Daisetsuzan mountain range. The Kitanomine and Furano zones are connected at the top of the slopes, and there are a total of 28 courses that can be enjoyed by beginners to advanced skiers alike. Due to the size of the slopes and the high level of facilities, there are many fixed fans, mainly families. For those who like to ski, it is attractive that you can enjoy super dry powder and beautiful grooming unique to the inland with two axes.
◆Official HP/ https://www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/furano/winter/
[Hokkaido]
Sapporo Teine
All-you-can-slide spring season tickets are now on sale! There is night game business
May 6th ( Monday/Shinkyu ) (Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays only after April 8th)
[Spring season]
There has been no shortage of snowfall this season in 2023-24, and even in late March, more than 350 cm of snow remains on the mountaintop of Sapporo Teine. The special spring skiing period is scheduled to run only on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from April 8th (Monday) to May 6th (Monday). This spring, the Olympia Zone will be open until the end of March, and the Highland Zone will be the field for spring skiing. A special night game operation is scheduled for April 6th (Sat) and 7th (Sun) from 16:00 to 21:00.
[This kind of ski resort]
About 40 minutes by car from the center of Sapporo city, the access is excellent. From the summit, which is over 1,000m above sea level, you can see the city of Sapporo and Ishikari Bay, and you can enjoy riding while looking at the sea. Sapporo Teine is also attractive for the nature zone of the sparse forest zone, including the famous "North Wall Course" with an elevation difference of over 400m. "Kitakabe", where skiers such as Daisuke Sasaki and Tsuyoshi Kodama were raised, is a tree run spot with a maximum slope of 36 degrees and an uncompacted snow slope.
◆ Official HP / https://sapporo-teine.com/snow/
[Hokkaido]
Kiroro Snow World｜KIRORO SNOW WORLD
At the end of the season, we will be selling “Shimepass” exclusive to Hokkaido residents in the second round!
Scheduled to be open until May 6th ( Monday/Shinkyu
[Spring season]
Kiroro's spring season operations in 2024 are scheduled to run until May 6th (Monday, Shingyu), but if the snow melts further, it may close earlier. This spring, a spring season pass exclusively for Hokkaido residents will be released. Its name is ``shimepas,'' and many Hokkaido people have a culture of ending their meal with a parfait called ``shimeparfait.'' Shimepas is a very Hokkaido-like name.
・Shimepass 1st edition: Sale from March 18th to March 31st.
You can ski from the date of purchase until the end of the season. You can ski for about 3 weeks during the high season. Sales price: Adult 19,500 yen/Children 11,000 yen /Shimepass 2nd tier: Sale from April 1st until the end of the season. You can ski from the date of purchase until the end of the season. You can ski for about a week during the high season. Sales price: Adult 16,500 yen / Child 10,000 yen
[This kind of ski resort]
It is close to Sapporo city, so it is possible to make a day trip even if you stay in Sapporo. Kiroro is relatively empty, and snow falls almost every night during the high season, resetting the course conditions. There are many courses with rich terrain suitable for powder riding, and the temperature is low, so there is no shortage of reasons for its popularity, such as the quality of the powder that is maintained from the beginning of the season.
◆ Official HP / https://www.kiroro.co.jp/en/
[Hokkaido]
Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort｜SAPPORO-KOKUSAI
You can enjoy the ever-popular “Spring Genghis Khan All-You-Can-Eat” until the end of the season!
Scheduled to be open until May 12th (Sunday)
[Spring season]
Sapporo Kokusai is famous for its abundant snowfall and long season, and in early March there is over 350cm of snow on the mountain top. There is still fresh snow falling, and the conditions are good, just like the high season. At Sapporo Kokusai, the spring season runs from April 1st to the scheduled closing date of May 12th (Sunday), and one-day lift tickets for adults will be reduced from 5,000 yen in high season to 4,500 yen, and 4-hour passes will be 4,500 yen in high season. It will be discounted to 4,000 yen. Business hours are 9:00-16:30.
Also, the extremely popular "Spring All-You-Can-Eat Genghis Khan", which has become a tradition every spring, starts on Saturday, March 23rd. It will be available until the end of the season at the ``Restaurant Rabbit'' sundeck on the 2nd floor of the ski center from 11:00 to 15:30 (order stop at 14:30). The price is 2,750 yen for elementary school students and older and 1,250 yen for preschoolers.
[This kind of ski resort]
Sapporo Kokusai is a convenient one-hour drive from Sapporo city, but the amount and quality of snow is guaranteed. The highlight of Sapporo Kokusai is the downhill course with a maximum gradient of 30 degrees. You can use one gondola to rotate around this course, so it's also attractive that you can earn a lot of skiing. Since the downhill course is an uncompacted snow course, the vine slope extends for about 2.2km from the top to the bottom, and the feeling of slipping is overwhelming.
◆Official HP / https://www.sapporo-kokusai.jp/
Tohoku area
[Iwate Prefecture]
Natsuyu Kogen Ski Resort | GETO KOGEN
The more you ski until Golden Week, the more you get a spring season ticket.
Scheduled to be open until May 6th ( Monday/Shinkyu
[Spring Season]
Natsuaru Plateau is one of the heaviest snowfall areas in Japan and has plenty of snow until May Golden Week. Natsuayu is one of Japan's leading tree orchid paradises, and it's irresistible to enjoy the mellow tree orchids that are different from the powder orchids in the spring forest. Early bird early purchase spring season tickets are 25,000 yen for the general public. Purchases can only be made locally after March 22nd (Friday). Both come with a hot spring pass for an additional 3,000 yen.
There are even more perks for spring season ticket buyers. ① Spring season ticket purchasers can also use it for green season gondola sightseeing. (2) Natsuyu Kogen Onsen bathing discount: Adults 800 yen → 600 yen. And ③ "One coin menu" limited to season ticket holders can be used!
[This kind of ski resort]
Located in the southwestern part of Iwate Prefecture, Natsubura Plateau is surrounded by the Kitakami Mountains to the east and the Ou Mountains to the west. It is surprising that the topography is so dry that it rains plenty of powder and is said to have the highest amount of snowfall in Honshu. It has 14 courses with 2 gondolas and 5 lifts, but since 2015, the tree run area has been actively expanded year by year, and in the 2022-22 season, it has expanded to 14 courses . It also has a high-quality park that boasts more than 20 types of items and meticulous maintenance from the beginning of the season, taking advantage of the overwhelming amount of snow. Both the powder and the park are the best in Tohoku, and it is said that "Tohoku has summer oil".
◆ Official HP / https://www.getokogen.com/winter/
[Yamagata Prefecture]
Tengendai Kogen Ski Resort | TENGENDAI KOGEN
Ski slopes in the sky boasting a long season of 6 months
Scheduled to be open until May 6th ( Monday/Shinkyu
[Spring Season]
It is late March and there is 400cm of snow on the top of the slope, Tsugamori Slope. The spring event is the "Spring Kids Campaign." Children under elementary school age can ride the ropeway and lift free of charge every day until April 7th (Sunday). It boasts a long season that lasts six months from early December to Golden Week in May, and the environment is very good even in the spring season.
[Ski resort like this]
Located in the southern part of the 2,000m class Ou Mountains.
The altitude at the top is over 1,800 meters, and because it faces north, the snow quality is said to be ``the finest powder in Honshu.'' Take the ropeway and approach the plateau with an altitude difference of 1,350m, which feels just like a ``slope in the sky''. The vertical layout takes advantage of the natural topography and has a wide variety of slopes, and there is also an environment where you can go from the slopes to the backcountry in an uncompacted powder zone. During the high season, you can enjoy an extremely long run of up to 6km.
◆ Official HP / https://www.winter.tengendai.jp/
[Yamagata Prefecture] Gassan Ski Resort | GASSAN
Blue sky, dazzling green, white snow! Enjoy an exhilarating slide amidst the color contrast of nature
Scheduled to be open until June 6th (Sunday)
Gassan Ski Resort in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan's snowiest prefecture, opens in early April, when most ski resorts reach the end of their season.
This year's opening date is set for Friday, April 12th. On this day, a one-day lift ticket for adults will be 3,800 yen as a special ski resort opening price. After the opening, from April 13th to April 19th, there will be a special discount of 4,200 yen for the first run, and after that the regular price will be 5,500 yen. This year, ski operations will be suspended for 18 days from June 10th (Monday) to June 27th (Thursday) due to lift maintenance, and spring/summer ski operations will actually end on June 9th. From spring to early summer, Mt. Gassan is truly beautiful with its refreshing air, blue sky, dazzling green, and white snow.
[Ski Resort like this]
Gassan Ski Resort is said to be a mecca for summer skiing and usually opens in early April. Located at an altitude of 1,600m, it has one of the highest snowfalls in Japan. The skiing area is a panoramic course centered around a pair of lifts, and can be skied from its opening in April until the end of July, and is also known as a summer training field for alpine races and moguls. The remaining snow, fresh green beech trees, and the magnificent nature of Bandai-Asahi National Park are alluring.
◆Official website/ https://gassankk.co.jp/gassanski/
[Fukushima Prefecture]
Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain | HOSHINO RESORTS NEKOMA MOUNTAIN
The new “Nekoma Mountain” is fun even in spring
Scheduled to be open until May 6th (Monday/Shinkyu)
[Spring Season]
Until now, spring has been the season for “Ura Nekoma” where Nekoma shows its true potential, and Nekoma is the most fun from spring! It has been said that Combined with Arutsu Bandai, the power has doubled, and the snow quality is still good and there is plenty of snow (190 cm of snow in the northern area at the end of March), but spring limited season tickets are also on sale starting from March! The spring season pass is available for unlimited skating for 25,000 yen for adults, 12,800 yen for 20-23 years old, and 22,800 yen for 24-29 years old.
Please note that the opening hours of the lift and Nyarutsu Chair in the north area have changed from March 25th (Monday).
[North area] Weekdays 7:30-15:00 Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays 5:55-15:00 *Devil cat chair at 5:55 [Nyarutsu chair] South platform 8:45-14:50 / North platform 8:45-15: 10
[South Area] All days 8:30-16:00 Afternoon tickets are available from 11:00.
The snow park is currently open in the north area (10:00-15:00). Banked slalom has also started. In spring, there will be more sunny and warm days. It doesn't hurt even if it gets moss. Spring is the perfect time to practice jumping, as you can do soft landings. There is also an area where you can enjoy humps.
[Ski resort like this]
Starting from the 2023-24 season, Alts Bandai and Nekoma Ski Resort will be combined and reborn as “Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain.” Nekoma Mountain has become one of Japan's largest snow fields, with 33 diverse courses, including the finest powder snow and long courses that can be enjoyed by everyone from beginners to advanced skiers.
◆ Official HP / https://www.nekoma.co.jp/
Shinetsu area
[Nagano Prefecture]
Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort | NOZAWA ONSEN
Yamabiko Slope is the best in spring, where you can enjoy topographical play!
Scheduled to be open until May 6th ( Monday/Shinkyu
[Spring season]
In spring at Nozawa Onsen, there is plenty of snow left, especially on the Yamabiko slope. You can enjoy exhilarating carving at Groomburn, park, and play with the terrain of the stream as shown in the photo. In spring, there is a high chance of being able to see a panoramic view of the Northern Alps from the summit of Mt. Kenashi, so you can enjoy large-scale spring skiing. April 1st (Monday) to May 6th (Monday/Shinkyu) is the Haruyama business period, and one-day lift tickets are usually 6,800 yen → 5,300 yen for adults, 5,400 yen → 4,200 yen for seniors, and 4,100 yen for children. →You save 3,200 yen.
Also, Nozawa Onsen is especially popular for family skiing in the spring. Parent-child trips for three generations are also popular. The Spring Break Family Pack Campaign is being held until March 31st (Sunday). Parent and child 1-day ticket A (common gondola) is a pack of 1 adult ticket + 1 elementary school/junior high school student ticket, which normally costs 10,900 yen, but is now 8,750 yen. Parent-child 1-day ticket B (common gondola) is a pack of 1 adult ticket and 2 child tickets (up to junior high school students), which normally costs 15,000 yen, but is now 12,000 yen.
[This kind of ski resort]
Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort boasts one of the largest scales in Japan and a hot spring town full of Japanese atmosphere. There is a lot of snowfall throughout the season, and there are 36 courses that satisfy families and beginners to advanced skiers. The altitude difference from the summit to the bottom is 1,085m, and the ski area is one of the largest in Japan for a single ski resort. The slopes are wide, the running distance is long, and there is plenty of natural terrain. Due to the appropriate lift placement, it is possible to efficiently flow into various courses.
◆ Official website: http://www.nozawaski.com
[Nagano Prefecture]
Shiga Kogen Yakebitaiyama Ski Resort ｜ SHIGA KOGEN YAKEBITAIYAMA
Run through the shiny grooming barn with the spring specialty “Haruyakebi” (6:00-8:00)
Scheduled to be open until May 6th (Monday/Shinkyu)
[Spring season]
Mt. Yakebi has uncompacted snow courses for advanced skiers such as YAKEBI WALL with a maximum slope of 39 degrees, a super giant slalom course, and a middle course.
In the peak season, you can enjoy a steep and deep powder ride, and in the spring, it becomes a challenging rough terrain that awaits those who show off their skills. The spring ski period is from April 1st (Monday) to May 6th (Monday/Shinkyu). Lift fees will also be discounted. Early morning 2-hour ticket 4,000 yen for adults | 4-hour ticket 5,000 yen for adults (advance sale online 4,500 yen) | 1-day ticket 6,000 yen for adults (advance sale 5,000 yen online)
After all, the springtime fun of Mt. Yakebita is "early morning skiing." The so-called "Haruyakebi" service will be held on April 6th (Saturday) and April 7th, where you can run through the shiny grooming barn in the early morning hours (6:00-8:00) when the conditions are good. (Sunday), 13th (Sat) to May 6th (Monday/Shinkyu). Depending on the schedule, two gondolas, the Yakebizan No. 1 and No. 2 gondolas, operate. There are five courses scheduled for early morning skiing, including the A1 Giant Slalom Course and the B1 Panoramic Course.
[This type
of ski resort] Mt. Yakebitai is the largest ski resort in Shiga Kogen. It has a good reputation for its snow quality, and a "fast track" has been implemented for powder lovers, and a non-compacted snow course is also firmly secured. You can also enjoy tree running in the beautiful coniferous forest, and it is overwhelmingly popular among freeriders in Shiga Kogen. The slope base consists of the East Building, South Building, and West Building of Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel. It is a high-spec resort that combines skiing and sophisticated resort stays.
◆ Official HP / https://www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/shiga/winter/
[Nagano Prefecture]
Okushiga Kogen Ski Resort | OKUSHIGA KOGEN
Good condition for natural spring snow! There is also a convenient spring ski 4-hour ticket
Scheduled to be open until May 6th (Monday/Shinkyu)
[Spring season]
Okushiga, located in the innermost part of Shiga Kogen, operates only on natural snow. It is a place where snow accumulates and accumulates. That's why spring skiing is so popular. The spring ski period is from April 1st (Monday) to May 6th (Monday), 2024. A one-day spring ski ticket is 5,300 yen for adults and 5,000 yen for seniors and junior high and high school students. There is also a 4-hour spring ski pass that seems to be easy to use and costs 4,500 yen for adults and 4,300 yen for seniors and junior high and high school students.
From April 6th (Saturday) to 7th (Sunday), a test ride event for ARMADA skis, NORDICA, and BLIZZARD skis called "TECNICA GROUP JAPAN & ARMADA DEMO TOUR 23-24" will be held. The location is near Okushiga Kogen 2nd High Speed Pair Lift from 9:00 to 15:00. At Okushiga during this time, you can expect the best conditions for test riding the new fat ski models for the 2024-25 season.
[This kind of ski resort]
Okushiga Kogen Ski Resort, which is located in the innermost part of Shiga Kogen, is popular for its calm and quiet atmosphere that is different from the central area of Shiga Kogen. The most enjoyable course is the downhill course. A steep slope bear drop where you can enjoy powder snow overhead even on the slopes. From the summit station, go downhill and go to Kumaotoshi. The top-to-bottom course with compacted snow and powder is one of the most dynamic courses in Japan. You can enjoy the size of the scale.
◆Official HP／ http://www.okushiga.jp/skiresort/
[Nagano Prefecture]
Kumanoyu Ski Resort | KUMANOYU
After all, Kumanoyu's spring and slippery granulated snow will not disappoint your expectations!
Scheduled to be open until May 5th (Sunday)
[Spring Season]
In recent years, Kumanoyu Ski Resort has launched a “Kuma-yuki” campaign. “Kumayuki” is the snow condition that users expect from Kumanoyu. Firm artificial snow in November, feather-like powder in the high season in February, and granulated snow in the spring season in April. Yes, Kumayuki in spring is rough and slippery. It means that you can play terrain without worrying about overspeed.
During the spring ski season from April 1st (Monday) to May 5th (Sunday), an adult 1-day ticket for all Shiga Kogen mountains costs 6,500 yen, a 2-day ticket costs 12,400 yen, and a 1-day ticket for seniors and junior high and high school students. 5,900 yen, 2-day ticket 10,800 yen, but the Kuma-no-Yu limited spring ski 1-day ticket is 6,000 yen for adults, 2-day ticket is 11,700 yen, 1-day ticket for seniors and junior high and high school students is 5,500 yen, and 2-day ticket is 10,800 yen, which is even better. is.
Also, in spring, they are open early in the morning (6:00-8:30). From April 20th, 21st, and 27th to May 6th, you can enjoy a pleasant ride on the fresh morning slopes. Early morning lift tickets are 2,300 yen for adults and 2,100 yen for seniors, junior high and high school students, but if you want to ski all morning, early morning + morning tickets are also available (6:00-13:00) for 7,500 yen for adults and 7,100 yen for seniors, junior high and high school students. .
[This kind of ski resort]
Most of the bowl-shaped ski resorts are on the north slope. It's a known place among powder freaks. The reason for this is the presence of Mt. Kasadake behind the ski resort. Snow clouds hang over the mountains, resulting in a large amount of dry, fresh snow. Despite being a compact ski resort, the slopes are steep and there are many depressions, so you won't get bored.
◆ Official HP / https://www.kumanoyu.co.jp/
[Nagano Prefecture]
Yokoteyama/Shibutoge Ski Resort | YOKOTEYAMA/SHIBUTOGE
Japan's highest altitude 2,307m area is in great shape even in spring! There is also early morning skiing
Scheduled to be open until May 6th (Monday/Shinkyu)
[Spring Season]
Yokoteyama Ski Resort boasts the highest altitude (2,307m) in Japan. Naturally, the amount of snow and the length of the season are on different scales. This spring's Yokoteyama season will be open until mid-May, and Shibu Pass will be open until June 5th. From April 1st (Monday) until the end of the season on May 6th (Monday, Shinkyu), an adult one-day ticket will cost 5,100 yen (regularly 6,000 yen).
Yokoteyama Shibutoge Ski Resort's spring specialty, ``early morning skiing,'' will be held again this year on March 20th (Wednesday/holiday), 23rd (Saturday), 24th (Sunday), 30th (Saturday), and 31st (Sunday). This service allows you to enjoy a 2km downhill ride using the 2nd Sky Triple between 6am and before the regular lifts open. The second skylift will operate from 6:00 to 8:00. Early morning fees are 3,000 yen for adults, 2,500 yen for seniors and junior high and high school students, and 2,000 yen for elementary school students.
[This kind of ski resort]
Yokoteyama Ski Resort is located at the highest place among domestic ski resorts. Therefore, the season is long and can be enjoyed until the middle of May. An attractive spot for freeriding is the wall of the course that descends from the summit to the bottom. The upper part of the course continues with a undulating forest course, and as you descend to the lower part, the slope becomes gentler and you can ski safely. The large panorama at the summit is a must-see if you visit Shiga. From the Northern Alps to Mt. Naeba, you can even see Mt. Fuji.
◆ Official HP / https://yokoteyama2307.com/
Hakuba area
[Nagano Prefecture]
Able Hakuba Goryu | HAKUBA VALLEY
Spring park open・New park at the top of the panorama course!
Scheduled to be open until May 6th (Monday/Shinkyu)
[Spring season]
The classic spring routine is to first aim for the panoramic course on the mountaintop slope. Enjoy cruising at a distance of 850m and a maximum slope of 18° while enjoying the panoramic view of the Hakuba mountain range, including the majestic Mt. Goryu. Starting Friday, March 15th, lift ticket prices will be changed to spring prices for both counters and online sales. You can purchase an adult one-day ticket for 7,500 yen → 6,500 yen, and a senior one-day ticket for 6,700 yen → 6,500 yen at the counter.
[This kind of ski resort]
The upper part of the slope is characterized by a long season where you can ski from the end of November to the end of the consecutive holidays in May. The ski slope layout consists of three unique slopes, "Alps", "Tomi" and "Iimori", and there are dedicated areas such as mogul courses, parks, and kids slopes. The view from the Alps-daira ski slope is outstanding when you go up in one gondola. There are courses where you can enjoy uncompacted snow and bumps on the side of the slopes, and courses where the entire surface becomes uncompacted snow after it snows. The upper part of the slope is connected to Hakuba47, so you can enjoy variations with it.
◆ Official HP / https://www.hakubaescal.com/winter/
[Nagano Prefecture]
Hakuba Happo-One Ski Resort｜HAKUBA HAPPO-ONE
The fun of diverse topography is unique to spring!
Scheduled May 6th (Monday/Shinkyu)
[Spring season]
Happo is where you can enjoy spring skiing until Golden Week in May. The sloping, uncompacted snow course in the high season turns into a bumpy slope in the spring, making it a perfect practice season for bump lovers. Spring is also popular among freeride enthusiasts, who say the variety of terrain in the Happo course is more interesting. Starting March 11th (Monday), lift prices will be changed to spring prices. Adult one-day ticket is 7,200 yen → 5,500 yen! You can save even more money by purchasing from WEBSHOP for 5,400 yen.
“24-25 BLASTRACK & OGASAKA SKI TEST RIDE” will be held on April 6th (Saturday), 7th (Sunday), and 8th (Monday). You can test drive the new model for the 2024-25 season. Participation is free, and the event will be held in front of a special tent near Usagidaira Terrace at Gondola Sancho Station. On the day of the event, please bring an ID that can confirm your address.
“HAPPO SPRING FESTIVAL @OAKLEY TERRACE” will also be held on April 7th (Sunday). A talk show featuring Nordic composite athlete Akito Watabe, Yoshito Watanabe, and former freestyle mogul Aiko Uemura as guests. In addition, the event will feature the musician group "EMPTY KRAFT" and "DJ BACK4" who have been livening up Happo-one every weekend this season. In addition to the annual raffle where you can win gorgeous prizes, there will also be drinks and baked sweet potatoes for sale.
[This kind of ski resort]
Happo-one, which is said to be the male of Hakuba. The reason is the overwhelming variety of slopes. There are a lot of variations such as slope direction and undulations, and everything from powder, bumps, terrain, etc. is all of first-class quality. The altitude difference is 1,071m, which is one of the best in Japan, and the course extends from the top of the slope to ridges in four directions, most of which are moderately steep slopes that are sufficiently slippery. To be able to fly 1km from Groomburn, which is snow-smoothed from top to bottom, is something that can't be beaten.
◆ Official HP / https://www.happo-one.jp/
[Nagano Prefecture]
Hakuba47 Winter Sports Park
A north-facing slope with Hakuba Ichi Park
Scheduled May 6th (Monday/Shinkyu)
[Spring Season]
Hakuba 47 has an altitude of over 1,500 meters above sea level and has many north-facing slopes, so the snow melts slowly even in spring.As of late March, there is 300 cm of snow at the summit and nearly 150 cm at the base. Conditions are excellent during the spring season, and we plan to be open until Golden Week in May. The famous ``47PARKS'' is a high-quality park with jumps of various sizes from 13m to 3m, half pipes, and a variety of JIB items that are easy to step up to beginners, intermediates, and advanced levels. In spring, the soft snow allows for soft landings, making it easy to practice jumping. It's a great environment for people who want to get better at park riding.
From March 15th (Friday) until Golden Week in May, as part of the spring ski campaign, one-day lift tickets will be discounted from normal prices to 6,500 yen for adults (18-59 years old) and seniors (60-79 years old).
[This
type of ski resort] Of all the HAKUBA VALLEY ski resorts, this is the one facing the north.
The slopes are located at an altitude of 820m to 1,614m, and most of the slopes face northeast, so the quality of the snow is excellent. Although the slopes are compact, you can ski over a wide area, including the membership-only tree area. Hakuba47's strongest weapon would be "47PARKS". The whole park is the size of one lift, and over 30 items are packed in the total length of 600m. You can also take park ride lessons at JAPAN PARK SCHOOL.
◆Official HP Hakuba47 Winter Sports Park
Niigata area
[Niigata Prefecture]
LOTTE ARAI RESORT
With a first class lift ticket, you can get priority boarding from 8:00!
Scheduled to be open until May 12th (Sunday)
[Spring Season]
Spring season is from March 25th (Monday) to May 12th (Sunday). Due to the amount of snow, the powder reset rate during the season is one of the best in Japan. This '23-24 season, as of the end of March, more than 3 meters of snow has fallen at Zentana Station. During the peak season, 84% of the snow is uncompacted, but the spring slopes feature more of the natural topography of the large slopes, making playing on the terrain even more fun. Also, in spring, the number of well-maintained compacted snow courses increases, and the snow park is full of fun items. Only in spring can you enjoy carving comfortably in the scale-like grooming barn, or immerse yourself in a mellow park play under the sunlight.
Arai's unique feature is its "first class" and "economy class" settings. If you have a first class lift ticket, you will be able to board priority boarding on certain lifts (Arai Gondola, Zentana Lift, Kogenashi Lift). Gondola rides are available from 8:00, 30 minutes earlier than usual. In the spring season, a first class one-day ticket (19-59 years old) costs 6,500 yen, a discount of 2,100 yen compared to the high season. (High Seas is 8,600 yen)
[This kind of ski resort]
Boasting an unbelievable amount of snowfall of 18m per year, the top of the slope is 1,280m above sea level, the longest run is 7.0km, and it has a unique layout with a deep depth. Big-scale slopes are 84% ungroomed slopes and amazing freeriding havens. Among them, there are 4 non-compressed snow courses and 10 free riding zones (avalanche terrain) with varied terrain such as steep slopes, tree runs, and long courses. It is also attractive that you can enjoy the feeling of a luxury resort in a quiet, calm and modern atmosphere.
◆ Official HP / https://www.lottehotel.com/arai-resort/ja/ski-webzine.html
[Niigata Prefecture]
Seki Onsen｜SEKIONSEN
Seki Onsen Ski Carnival will be held on Saturday, March 30th!
Scheduled to open until mid-May
[Spring season]
Seki Onsen is one of Japan's most heavily snowed ski resorts, and even in April, the average snowfall exceeds 2 meters. The snow melts early in spring this year, but as of the end of March, there is still 300 cm of snow. It will be fully open until Golden Week in May, and if there is snow after that, it will be open until mid-May. There are no spring lift fees, but a one-day lift ticket for Seki Onsen is originally as low as ¥3,900 throughout the season.
On Saturday, March 30th, the Seki Onsen Ski Carnival will be held, billed as ``Japan's oldest ski carnival.'' You can enjoy fireworks on the ski slopes and pine tree skiing.
[This kind of ski resort]
Speaking of Seki Onsen, it is synonymous with "heavy snow". The Myoko area is the area where the cold air from the Sea of Japan hits snow first. The course design is simple with only two lifts, but the course is full of ups and downs, and most of the snow is not compacted. It is popular among powder enthusiasts as a little-known spot that they don't want to tell people about. The charm of Seki Onsen is not only the heavy snow, but also the atmospheric hot springs and the Japanese rural atmosphere. The ski slopes also have a local mood and a comfortable "home feeling".
◆Official HP／ http://www.sekionsen.com/index.php
[Niigata Prefecture]
Kandatsu Snow Resort | KANDATSU SNOW RESORT
Kandatsu's spring business starts on April 1st with great deals on lift tickets!
Scheduled to be open until April 21st (Sunday)
[Spring season]
Spring in Kandatsu is crowded with users who have lots of fun mainly in the well-equipped park. Spring business hours are from April 1st (Monday) to April 21st (Sunday). Lifts are open from 8:00 to 16:00 (no night games). A one-day ticket in spring costs 3,500 yen, and a four-hour ticket in spring costs 3,000 yen, the same price as last season, making it a great deal.
Furthermore, in spring, ladies day will be applied every weekday!
You can enjoy the "Spring 1-day ticket + ladies crepe" set for only 3,000 yen. In addition, a spring season pass is also on sale that can be used from the date of purchase until the end of the season. Available on weekdays, weekends and holidays, and costs 21,000 yen for adults, children, and seniors. It also comes with special benefits. ・Companion discount/When you present your season ticket at the counter, your companion can purchase a 500 yen discount on a one-day lift ticket (no limit on the number of people, no lift ticket discount during night skiing hours)
・Kami no Yu bathing discount (only for the person in question) / Discount on bathing fees at Kami-no-Yu.
Adults: 1,200 yen → 500 yen Tuning service discount / If you show your season ticket at KSR Rental (GROUND BASE 3F), the tuning service will be offered for 8,500 yen (excluding tax) instead of the regular price of 11,000 yen (excluding tax). (Available with off-season storage service)
[Ski resort like this]
Kandatsu Snow Resort is famous and popular as a day trip ski slope from the Tokyo metropolitan area. Although the ski resort is compact in size, it has attractive courses and is well equipped with facilities such as hot springs and nap rooms, so many skiers and snowboarders come here every weekend with season tickets. Partly because of this, the park culture has been deeply rooted since ancient times, and the park is outstanding. From ``HIKE UP PARK'', which has items that even beginners can enjoy, ``P-canFACTORY Jump Practice Park'', where you can concentrate on practicing jumping, ``SCLOVER PARK'', for intermediate and advanced users, where you can hone your slopestyle techniques, and more. There are 4 types in the lineup.
◆ Official HP / https://www.kandatsu.com/
[Niigata Prefecture]
Okutadami Maruyama Ski Resort | OKUTADAMIMARUYAMA
“Spring Unexplored Region” where spring is extremely fun
Scheduled to be open until May 6th (Monday/Shinkyu)
[Spring Season]
Spring is the star of Okutadami Maruyama! As expected, spring is full of fun at the park, tree runs, and sliding down bumps. This is the original situation, but due to light snowfall this season of '23-24, things are a little different. The Kamoshika Course, which can be said to be the main ski slope at Okutadami, has uncompacted snow at the bottom of the A Course, which is aimed at experts. Enjoy the powder in winter and the bumps in spring. The B and C courses are full of variety, allowing you to hit the walls on the side of the course and play with the terrain. The D and E courses are normally open only in spring, but this spring they are a little off.
As of the end of March, Serow D Course, Semo Shika E Course, Lower Bunadaira B Course, and Bunadaira C Course are closed. The spring ski season is scheduled to be open until Golden Week in May. Lift tickets are 4,500 yen for adults, 3,800 yen for seniors, and 3,400 yen for AM/PM tickets. A 2-day ticket costs 7,500 yen, so it's a great deal.
[This kind of ski resort]
Okutadami Maruyama Ski Resort, located in one of Japan's heaviest snowfall areas, is a famous and popular spot for the first slide that can be enjoyed from the end of November and the spring slide that opens from the end of March due to the amount of snow. The number of lifts is small, but the maximum skiing distance from the summit to the foot is a whopping 4,000m.
◆Official HP／ //okutadami.co.jp/ski/
[Niigata Prefecture]
Kagura Ski Resort | KAGURA
Perfect for experiencing backcountry for the first time!
The slopes boast groomed slopes and beautifully shaped bumpy slopes!
Tashiro Area Scheduled to be open until May 6th (Monday/Shinkyu) and Mitsuma Takagura Ski Resort until May 19th (Sunday)
[Spring season]
Kagura is said to be one of the heaviest snowfall spots in Honshu.Although it is a little less than usual this season, in late March there is 200cm of snow on the summit and 150cm at the foot of the mountain. Spring is long, and Mitsuma Kagura is scheduled to be open until May 19th (Sunday) for the 2023-24 season. Kagura is extremely popular as a perfect place for those who want to make their debut from the slopes to the backcountry.
At the top of the ski resort, at the end of the Kagura No. 5 Romance Lift (commonly known as Goroma), there is a gate to the backcountry (BC), allowing easy access to the BC, so many BC fans use it. Especially in spring, the weather is stable and the sun is long, so it is recommended for skiers and snowboarders who are trying BC for the first time, and for inexperienced entry users. There are several guide club tours for beginners, so it's good to use them. While learning how to use the avalanche gear and how to ski on the BC, you can enjoy the BC safely and securely.
Kagura Ski Resort in spring is attractive for groomed slopes and beautifully shaped bumpy slopes. In the morning, you can enjoy the closed groom, and in the afternoon, you can enjoy the granulated snow with light spray. Kagura Park, which requires a big kicker, is also very popular.
[This kind of ski resort]
Kagura, which is convenient to access by car or Shinkansen, is especially recommended for those who are new to powder and backcountry skiing. It has favorable conditions such as quantity and quality of snow, ease of access, variety of slopes, and low risk of avalanches and getting lost due to terrain. There are two bases, Tashiro and Mitsumata, and a vast slope spreads out at the end of each ropeway. Due to its high altitude, the quality of snow is outstanding despite being close to the Tokyo metropolitan area. If you are a backcountry tour with a guide service, even beginners can try it.
◆ Official HP / https://www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/kagura/winter/
[Niigata Prefecture]
GALA Yuzawa ｜ GALA YUZAWA
"Let's go today!"
Scheduled to be open until May 6th (Monday/Shinkyu)
[Spring Season]
GALA Yuzawa gets even more powerful in the spring, taking advantage of the abundant snowfall. The snow park "GALA QUEST PARK" has undergone a major renovation since March. A large number of kickers and jib items for advanced users have been added, and QUEST staff are giving free lectures on how to play the park for those who are new to the park at the “Level Up Park” dedicated to hiking.
GALA Yuzawa's spring period is from April 8th (Monday) to May 6th (Monday, Shinkyu). Lift tickets for adults are 5,600 yen for one day (4,800 yen when purchased online) and 8,600 yen for 2 days (7,800 yen when purchased online). Spring season tickets are also on sale. Adults can ride as much as they want for 26,000 yen, so if you plan on going 5 times, the Spring Pass is a good deal.
Furthermore, by presenting your GALA passport, you can purchase a one-day lift ticket for 2,000 yen at Yuzawa Kogen Ski Resort, Ishiuchi Maruyama Ski Resort, Joetsu Kokusai, Iwahara Ski Resort, NASPA Ski Garden, and Maiko Snow Resort. At Kandatsu Snow Resort, it costs 3,000 yen.
[This kind of ski resort]
Arrive in about 75 minutes from Tokyo by Joetsu Shinkansen. GALA Yuzawa boasts a miraculous access, directly connected to the ski resort from the station. Since JR East is the parent company, the Shinkansen + lift ticket, rental, etc. are bundled, so it is convenient that you can spend cashless at meals, hot springs, and most of the facilities. Despite its compact size, it has 16 courses and the longest running distance is 2,500m. Satisfaction is enough to be able to go on a day trip.
◆ Official HP / https://gala.co.jp/winter/
[Niigata Prefecture]
CHARMANT HIUCHI Ski Resort
Spring Charmant boasts mellow grainy snow
Scheduled to be open until May 5th (Sunday)
[Spring season]
Charmant has an abundance of snow that remains until spring. It is surprising that the amount of snowfall exceeds 500 cm in the middle of March every year. Since 65% of the entire ski resort is uncompacted snow, the loose conditions in spring create a nice natural topography, and the entire slope can be played like a park, which is very popular with freeride enthusiasts. It is also popular with skiers who like bumps.
Plenty of granulated snow is slippery, and you don't have to hunt for powder like you do in high season. There are no special spring skiing periods or lift discounts, but Charmant Hiuchi's mountains (ski resorts) themselves are interesting. It might be a good idea to calm down and go play in early spring when the weather is stable.
[This kind of ski resort]
This area is famous for its heavy snowfall, but during the high season, the amount of snowfall constantly exceeds 500 cm, so the amount of snowfall is extraordinary. The ski resort is also preparing an environment that can provide this excessively abundant snow in the best form. The keywords are "non-compressed snow principle" and "nature as it is". Continuing efforts to not compact the snow, more than 65% are set as non-compressed snow areas and courses.
◆Official website／https://charmant-hiuchi.jp
Gunma area
[Gunma Prefecture]
Marunuma Kogen Ski Resort ｜ MARUNUMA KOGEN
A symbolic existence where natural terrain play is mastered
Scheduled to be open until May 6th (Monday/Shinkyu)
[Spring season]
Marunuma's unique selling point for freeriders is that freerad can be enjoyed on natural terrain. In spring, the snow melts and the topography emerges, so there are more places to play than in the high season, making Marunuma even more attractive. With a combination of different types of walls and changing snow conditions, the conditions are never the same. It is truly a paradise of terrain play where you can get absorbed in terrain play without getting bored. Many of Gunma's ski resorts have a common denominator of being able to play on the walls of nature, and Marunuma can be said to be a symbol of that.
From March 18th (Monday) to May 6th (Monday, Shinkyu), spring season prices will be applied, with a one-day lift ticket for adults costing 5,400 yen and seniors 4,900 yen. There is also a friendly pass limited to the 1st, 4th, and central lifts, which costs 3,000 yen. If you are a snow park specialist user, this seems to be enough.
[This kind of ski resort]
Marunuma features a variety of skiing experiences, including a long ride with a maximum run length of 4km, a beautiful compacted snow slope, a paradise for topographical play, an uncompacted snow powder area, and a mogul area. Also, because the altitude is 2,000m, it has a reputation for good snow quality. On powder days, you can go around the whole ski resort with just one ropeway, so it's very efficient. With 13 courses that can be enjoyed in various styles and lines from top to bottom, it is understandable that there are many season pass users in the long season.
◆ Official HP / https://www.marunuma.jp/winter/
[Gunma Prefecture]
Tanigawadake Tenjindaira Ski Resort | TANIGAWADAKE TENJINDAIRA by Hoshino Resort
I want to fully enjoy the famous "Tajirizawa course" with a total length of over 4km
Scheduled to be open until April 7th (Sunday)
[Spring Season]
Tanigawadake Tenjindaira Ski Resort's famous course, Tajirisawa Course, where you can enjoy the wild nature while skiing a long course of over 4km in length, is now open for the first time in two seasons. The one-day ticket (adult) is 7,500 yen and allows you to ride both the ropeway (uphill) and the lift as many times as you like, allowing you to enjoy a special long run not found at other ski resorts, with its long distance and dynamic scenery. From March 18th (Monday) until the ski resort closes on April 7th (Sunday), the ropeway business hours are 8:30-16:30 (lift 8:30-16:00), last ropeway up 16:00 becomes.
Tenjindaira is a mountainous area with tough natural conditions, so many users feel particularly nervous about skiing during the high season. In spring, the weather tends to be more stable, so you should be able to relax more than in the high season. Tenjindaira in spring is recommended!
◆Official HP／ http://www.tanigawadake-rw.com/tenjindaira/
[Gunma Prefecture]
Kawaba Ski Resort | KAWABA
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy the essence of freeriding at THE SURF RIDE PARK
Scheduled to be open until mid-April
[Spring season]
Until the ski resort closes in mid-April, there will be a ``spring skiing fee'', which will be 4,900 yen for an adult, 4,600 yen for seniors (over 50 years old), and 3,100 yen for children (elementary and junior high school students). As soon as the spring skiing period is decided, it will be announced on the website information, SNS, etc.
The fun of Kawaba in spring is the various snow parks. ``FLUX PARK'' is the main park full of various items and sections, ``FREERIDE PARK'' is a natural park where you can play by taking advantage of the river topography unique to Kawaba, and 3D parks such as artificially created banks, waves, and walls of natural terrain within the course. THE SURF RIDE PARK is an attraction course where you can freely enjoy the terrain and experience the essential way of sliding and playing freeride. There is also ``EASY PARK'' for beginners.
[This kind of ski resort]
2 hours north of Kanetsu Expressway from Tokyo. Kawaba is the closest from Numata IC. With an altitude of 1250m at the base area and 1870m at the summit, it is located at a high altitude among the ski resorts in the Kanto area, and during the high season, the finest smooth natural snow falls. The vast slopes are dotted with a wide variety of courses, and the total distance from the top to the bottom of the ski resort is about 3300m, so you can enjoy a super long run. "OFF THE PISTE" where you can enjoy the feeling of off-piste in a controlled limited area on the slopes, 3 types of high-quality parks, and mogul courses are famous for having many repeaters.
◆ Official HP / https://www.kawaba.co.jp/snow/
Kansai/Chukyo area
[Gifu Prefecture]
Takasu Snow Park | TAKASU MOUNTAINS
Scheduled to be open until mid-April
“Spring Takasu” big event “ Takasu Spring Festival WEEK ” will be held!
[Spring Skiing]
Spring is still the high season for Takasu Snow Park. It's called ``Spring Takasu'' and has a lot of fun features. A spring park has been opened at the top of the mountain, and a one-day ticket in spring costs 4,400 yen. It's a shared ticket with Dynaland, which is connected at the top of the slope, so I'm very happy to be able to spend a spring day skiing at two resorts.
The big event held before the end of the season is the Takasu Spring Festival WEEK. This season, snowboarding will be held for three weeks: March 30th (Sat) & 31st (Sun) | April 6th (Sat) & 7th (Sun) | April 13th (Sat) & 14th (Sun). Various events will be held, including ``TAKASU BANKED SLALOM'', ``NIGHT EVENT'', and ``Guratori Festival''.
[This kind of ski resort]
You can go up to the top of the slopes at an altitude of 1,550m in one go with a 15-passenger gondola with a total length of 2,700m. The upper part of the slope is connected to Dynaland, and you can freely go back and forth between the two big slopes with a common lift ticket. Its longest run is 4,900m, and there are two other long courses over 4,000m, making it perfect for long cruising.
◆ Official HP / https://www.takasu.gr.jp/