Tree runs are hot! Ski resort with a full tree run area is here '23-24

Location: Geto Kogen

Today, tree runs are getting hotter and hotter than powder riding. Ski resorts that have realized the beauty of nature's beautiful forests and their potential for play are actively promoting tree runs by opening new courses and expanding areas. In the forest covered with broad-leaved trees, it is easy to maintain good snow conditions, deep snow drifts, and the natural topography with rich ups and downs makes it a superb field for enjoying freeride. is. So, let's find out what kind of ski resorts are preparing the tree run environment now.

Where is a snow resort with a full tree run area?
First, let's take a look at the mecca for tree runs, Natsuyu Kogen, which boasts the largest number of courses in Japan.

INDEX

A mecca for tree runs that boasts the largest number of courses in Japan! Natsuyu Kogen Ski Resort | GETO KOGEN [Iwate Prefecture]

Photo: Takahiro Nakanishi

[Tree Runfield] Heart, Garden, Summit, Rabbit, Beach, Cascade, Alta, Stream, Extreme, Shooter 1, Shooter 2, Shooter 3, Shooter 4

Natsuyu Plateau is located in the southwestern part of Iwate Prefecture, with the Kitakami Mountains to the east and the Ou Mountains to the west. The terrain is amazing as it produces a lot of dry powder and is said to have the highest snowfall in Honshu. Natsuyu Kogen Ski Resort has 14 courses with 2 gondolas and 5 lifts, but they focused on tree runs ahead of the movement and have continued to actively expand the ski area year by year. Starting with the 21st season, we have adopted the novel concept of ``Grow Up Treerun'', where the tree run course is divided into levels of difficulty, allowing participants to step up based on their skill and experience. The system allows participants to choose a course according to their ability and enjoy tree running safely and securely.

There are 13 tree run areas in total, each taking advantage of the varied natural terrain, and you can enjoy powder riding to your heart's content in the beautiful forest that looks just like the photos and videos. This is the best part of summer oil.

This ▼ is an introduction video of the 2018 tree run, and it shows the beauty of the Natsyu Forest, the pleasant feeling of sliding as if diving into the snow while kicking up powder, and the richness of the Natsyu Tree Run, which can be enjoyed in all directions. I can feel it in my hands.

Natsuyu's "Grow Up Treerun" solidified the tree run movement in Japan and made Natsuyu a base for creating tree run culture. Natsuyu's creativity is amazing in conceptualizing tree run not just as a way to play, but as a skill for sliding. The more you slide, the more your technique improves and you level up. At the same time as gliding technique, "tree hunting" skills, which are not powder hunting, are also honed. They are also nurturing the sensibility (mind) of skiers to sniff out the so-called high-quality tree run spots and enjoy the beautiful forest and snow more comfortably than anyone else.

Natsuyu Kogen has gained overwhelming support from powder enthusiasts and tree run fans for its novelty and aggressive approach that cannot be found anywhere else. It will be possible to ski during the 2023-24 season until Golden Week in May. The more you go, the more you'll discover the charm of Tree Run Field. You'll want to get a season pass as well.

Top altitude
1,070m
Longest
run 2,980m
Elevation difference
430m
Maximum slope
36°

14 courses

3 lifts

2 gondolas
ropeway
-book

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

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Heavy snowfall tree run Japan's best! Natsuyu Kogen Ski Resort | Tree runs are the most fun in powder! "Even if it's not raining elsewhere, it's raining heavily." When did you start hearing that kind of reputation? Record the highest amount of snow in Japan in the past...

[Hokkaido]
Rusutsu Resort|RUSUTSU RESORT

[Tree Run Field] Heavenly Spirit Course/Rinkan Course

Rusutsu has many fans because of its size, snow quality, and varied topography. Consisting of three mountains, West Mt., East Mt., and Mt. Isola, there are 37 courses totaling 42km!

Since Mt. Isola and East Mt. slopes face north, they are less exposed to the sun, and the snow conditions are always maintained in good condition. In addition to that, the broad-leaved trees make it difficult for sunlight to enter the forest where we enjoy the tree run. It's perfect for enjoying powder tree riding.

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

Rusutsu's famous "Side Country Park" is a unique park that makes the most of the natural topography and is located in a beautiful forest. In addition, the West Mt. Rinkan Course is a non-compressed snow course where you can enjoy line-taking at 750m while avoiding trees in a pristine forest. It is designed to be slippery, and you can enjoy a dynamic gliding feeling.

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

37 courses

14 lifts

4 gondolas
ropeway
-book

◆ Official HP / https://rusutsu.com/

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Rusutsu Resort's tree run & powder run for professionals|Tips for successfully hitting Hokkaido's best powder environment Many areas are blessed with evenly snowfall this season. Even in February, the popular spots are kept in good condition with regular snowfall and chilly weather. ...

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

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

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

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

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

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

22 courses

11 lifts

1 gondola
ropeway
-book

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


[Hokkaido]
Kiroro Snow World|KIRORO SNOW WORLD

[Tree Runfield] Off-Piste Area

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

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

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

23 courses

8 lifts

2 gondolas
ropeway
- book

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


[Hokkaido]
Kamui Ski Links|KAMUI SKI LINKS

[Tree Ranfield] Deep Powder/Fresh Powder

Kamui's icon is a box-shaped 4-seater gondola, which is rare nowadays.

Kamui's non-compressed snow courses account for about 30% of the entire ski resort, so powder lovers will find plenty to ski on. In addition to the uncompacted snow on the summit, we recommend the uncompacted forest course on the north slope and the deep powder course. On the tree run course, "Deep Powder" and "Fresh Powder" on the left side of the gondola are recommended. With a long distance of 600 to 800m, a slope of 30° to 32°, and moderate mash, this full-fledged course is suitable for experts. Even skiers who are keen on the terrain will agree.

Top altitude
751m
Longest run
4,000m
Elevation difference
601m
Maximum slope
35°

25 courses

5 lifts

1 gondola

0 ropeways

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


[Hokkaido]
Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU

[Tree Run Field] Limited release area for advanced users

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

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

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

Top altitude
1,171m
Longest
run 4,200m
Elevation difference
585m
Maximum slope
35°

29 courses

5 lifts

1 gondola
ropeway
-book

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


[Hokkaido]
Sapporo Teine

[Tree Runfield] Kitakabe

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

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

Top altitude
1,023m
Longest run
6,000m
Elevation difference
683m
Maximum slope
38°

15 courses

9 lifts

1 gondola
ropeway
- book

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


[Iwate Prefecture]
Appi Kogen|APPI KOGEN

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

Appi features 21 courses radiating out from Maemoriyama, an independent peak with an altitude of 1,304m, and half of the courses are longer than 2km and big scale.

Gondolas and quad lifts with excellent mobility are laid out at key points to cover it, so access between courses is easy. Thanks to the topographical conditions and the 40 degrees north latitude, the snow in Appi is finely textured and hard to clump.

Appi has been popular with free skiers since it can be enjoyed for long distances, but in recent years Appi has been gaining more attention. This is because the non-compacted snow and tree run areas have been expanded steadily, and the total area of ​​5 areas is 600,000 square meters! There are two vast tree fields on Nishimoriyama in the back and three on Maemoriyama in front. Appi's approach to the tree run is considerable. Not only the topography but also the variety of trees, the tree run, where you can feel the natural beauty of Tohoku, is exceptional. In particular, Nishimori Slope "Attack" has steep slopes and mash, and is very slippery. You can enter at a designated place, receive an armband, and wear a helmet.

Top altitude
1,304m
Longest
run 5,500m
Elevation difference
684m
Maximum slope
34°

21 courses

9 lifts

1 gondola
ropeway
-book

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


[Niigata Prefecture]
Maiko Snow Resort|MAIKO SNOW RESORT

[Tree Run Field] Okuzoeji area

Only 1 minute from Shiozawa Ishiuchi IC!

The location is irresistibly convenient for those who prefer to drive their own cars. Many of the slopes are relatively gentle, giving the impression that they are suitable for families and beginner and intermediate skiers. But the truth is, for freeskiers, it's completely different. The number of uncompacted snow courses that take advantage of the rich natural terrain has expanded rapidly, and there are currently five locations. Many of the courses face north, and the smooth Uonuma powder accumulates, making it a perfect freeride zone. In the Okuzoe Tree Run Area, the spacing between the trees is a little tight, but the slope is just right, so you can comfortably ski with plenty of time. The snow quality is excellent as it is located at the innermost part of the ski resort. Advance registration is required for skiing, and it is recommended to wear an armband and a helmet.

Top altitude
920m
Longest run
6,000m
Elevation difference
660m
Maximum slope
32°

26 courses

9 lifts

1 gondola
ropeway
-book

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

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Recommended tree run! Ski Resort Report | Maiko Snow Resort Photo: Diceman “Okuzoe Tree Run Area” is now open! Maiko Snow Resort has been attracting attention from powder lovers for the past few years. Opening of the off-piste zone and freeride world...

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

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

About 10 minutes from Yuzawa IC, JR Echigo Nakazato Station and the ski center are directly connected, making it easy to access by train.

The slopes are mainly wide and spacious gentle slopes. Although advertised as suitable for families and beginners, Nakazato actually has a completely different face. From the 2021 season, the mountain on the right side of the ski resort has been maintained while making use of the natural topography and trees, and has been opened as a tree run area. No special fees or applications are required to ski the tree run area, and you can enter as long as you have a lift ticket.

Variety of tree densities and rhythm changes are fun. There are many different slopes that you can choose according to your preference. Some slopes are steep and slippery. With constant snowfall, the conditions are stable and undulating. The appeal of Nakazato's tree run is indescribable. Go skiing and check it out!

Top altitude
702m
Longest run
2,000m
Elevation difference
244m
Maximum slope
32°

17 courses

6 lifts
Gondola
-base
ropeway
-book

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

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Enjoy STEEP & DEEP Tree Run Powder | Another look at Yuzawa Nakazato, which was called a family ski resort Do you know the latest Yuzawa Nakazato? Yuzawa Nakazato Snow Resort, located in Yuzawa Town, Niigata Prefecture, is a wide ski resort with 11 courses and 6 lifts. The slope of the slope is relatively...

[Niigata Prefecture]
Kagura Ski Resort|KAGURA

[Tree run field] Rinkan expert course

Kagura is easily accessible by car or Shinkansen.

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

Top altitude
1,845m
Longest run
6,000m
Elevation difference
1,225m
Maximum slope
32°

32 courses

15 lifts

1 gondola

2 ropeways

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


[Niigata Prefecture]
Charmant Hiuchi Ski Resort|CHARMANT HIUCHI

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

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

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

Top altitude
1,009m
Longest
run 2,700m
Elevation difference
508m
Maximum slope
37°

17 courses

3 lifts
Gondola
-base
ropeway
-book

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


[Niigata Prefecture]
Ishiuchi Maruyama Ski Resort|ISHIUCHI MARUYAMA

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

Ishiuchi Maruyama is covered with light snow brought by seasonal winds blowing from the Sea of ​​Japan.

There is a particularly large amount of snowfall in January, and you can enjoy plenty of delicious Uonuma Koshihikari-grade Uonuma powder, which attracts hungry powder freaks. Ishiuchi Maruyama is a long-established ski resort that boasts a history of 70 years since its opening, but offers new facilities and services every year through innovative initiatives.

Since the 2021 season, the tree run in the summit area, which was secretly known among locals, has been officially opened. In the two tree run areas, the summit area and the mid-mountain area, plenty of powder accumulates in the beautiful trees, and it's fun to ride rhythmically over the unevenness of the natural terrain. However, always wear a helmet. Observe the precautions and enjoy the tree run.

Top altitude
920m
Longest run
4,000m
Elevation difference
664m
Maximum slope
35°

27 courses

13 lifts

1 gondola
ropeway
-book

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

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

[Tree Run Field] Uncompressed Snow Tree Run Course/Tree Run Course

Excellent access in less than 10 minutes from Myoko Kogen IC. It is also convenient that the slopes are right in front of the hotel. There are two tree run courses in the middle and one at the bottom. This course is recommended for beginners as it can be entered from the main 1,750m long lift. While enjoying the long ride, cruising in the tree from the middle, and being able to turn around with the capsule high-speed lift is efficient and comfortable.

Top elevation
1,487mm
Longest run
4,000m
Elevation difference
728m
Maximum slope
32°

15 courses

6 lifts
Gondola
-base
ropeway
-book

◆ Official HP / https://ikenotaira.info/


[Niigata Prefecture]
Seki Onsen Ski Resort|SEKIONSEN

[Tree Run Field] Within the ski area management area

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

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

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

Top altitude
1,200m
Longest run
2,000m
Elevation difference
400m
Maximum slope
45°

5 courses

2 lifts
Gondola
-base
ropeway
-book

◆ Official website: http://www.sekionsen.com/


[Nagano Prefecture]
Madarao Kogen Ski Resort | MADARAO KOGEN

Photo/ Daniel Honda Skier/Naoto Kono

[Tree Runfield] Rabbit/Powder Theater/Powder Wave

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

In particular, the Tree Run course, which runs through the trees, has been updated every year since its introduction in 2009, and a new course will also appear in the 2023-24 season. Including the attached Tangram Ski Circus, there are a total of 15 tree run courses. Their number and quality are overwhelming. With a variety of courses that take advantage of the rich terrain, Madarao allows anyone of any skill level, from hardcore powder freaks to family skiers, to enjoy the fun of powder and tree runs.

Top altitude
1,350m
Longest run
2,500m
Elevation difference
440m
Maximum slope
37°

32 courses

10 lifts
Gondola
-base
ropeway
-book

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

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Recommended tree run! Madarao Kogen | Ski Resort Report Number of courses is the highest in Japan! Enjoy the “Mada Pau” in the forest Photo/Daniel Honda Skier/Naoto Kono The number is the highest in Japan! An overwhelming tree run course Madarao Kogen Ski Resort is located on Mt. Madarao in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture. Many of the courses face the north slope...

[Nagano Prefecture]
Togari Onsen Ski Resort|TOGARI ONSEN

[Tree run field] Tree run course

Togari Onsen is very accessible, about 15 minutes by car or 25 minutes by shuttle bus from JR Iiyama Station.

It also features an outstanding view of Shinanodaira. In addition to abundant snowfall and good snow quality, there are many tree run courses and non-compressed snow courses. The big point of the tree run course next to the rabbit course and the tree run course next to the challenge course is that you can turn the lift.

Top altitude
1050m
Longest run
2,500m
Elevation difference
400m
Maximum slope
35°

13 courses

4 lifts
Gondola
-base
ropeway
-book

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


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

[Tree Runfield] Air Screen Rose

Yamaboku Wild Snow Park is located on the southern slope of Mt. Kasagatake, which is 2,076 meters above sea level and is part of the Shiga Kogen UNESCO Eco Park.

The slopes are between 1,500m and 1,700m above sea level, so light natural powder snow accumulates, and 70% of the slopes are uncompacted, making it a perfect ski resort for powder lovers. Yamaboku offers a truly wild powder field, with a completely uncompacted snow area called ``2nd Stage'' that is open to limited dates and a limited number of people, and the 13km long Takochi Tour Course that connects Yamaboku and Yamada Onsen Ski Resort. Not only can you fully enjoy tree running in the wild nature, but there are also points on the slopes where you can enjoy tree running.

Reservations are required for the ``2nd Stage'' and ``Special CAT Program,'' and seats fill up quickly every year. Check the official website for reservation acceptance. The "Takochi Tour Course" is scheduled to be open from 10:00 to 14:00 on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from January 6, 2024 (Saturday) to February 25, 2024 (Sunday). To ski the Takochi Tour Course, in addition to the lift fee, you will also need to submit a mountain entry notification and pay a cooperation fee (1,500 yen per person).

Top altitude
1,700m
Longest run
13km
Elevation difference
-m
Maximum slope
38°

16 courses

3 lifts
Gondola
-base
ropeway
-book

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



[Nagano Prefecture]
Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort|HAKUBA CORTINA

[Tree Run Field] Within the ski area management area

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

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

Top altitude
1,402m
Longest run
3,500m
Elevation difference
530m
Maximum slope
42°

16 courses

6 lifts
Gondola
-base
ropeway
-book

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


[Nagano]
Hakuba47 Winter Sports Park | HAKUBA VALLEY

[Tree Runfield] Tree Riding Zone/Tree Area

Here is the most north facing ski resort in HAKUBA VALLEY.

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. The 47, which is known as the Mecca of Japan's snow parks, is actually a high-spec environment for powder riding. There are two types of areas where you can enjoy the tree run.

One is a spot called "tree area/non-compacted snow" scattered around the mountain. Free to enter here, no registration required. There are 10 "tree areas" of various sizes, and almost all of them are outside the course and completely inside the forest. There are 4 "non-compressed snow", which are a little compact size and are located on the slopes. Another type is the "Registration System Tree Riding Zone", which has two locations. In the forest where only members can ski, it is necessary to register as a member in advance at the school center. After agreeing to the riding rules, tree riding is allowed in the zone with bibs. It's only for registered users, so I'm happy that it tends to be vacant.

Top altitude
1,614m
Longest
run 6,400m
Elevation difference
794m
Maximum slope
32°

8 courses

5 lifts

1 gondola
ropeway
-book

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


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

[Tree Runfield] VIEW α

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

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

Top altitude
1,289m
Longest
run 3,800m
Elevation difference
539m
Maximum slope
35°

13 courses

8 lifts

1 gondola
ropeway
-book

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


[Gunma Prefecture]
Kawaba Ski Resort|KAWABA

[Tree Runfield] OFF THE PISTE

Kawaba is one of the most heavily snowy areas in Gunma Prefecture, even though it is only two hours by car from central Tokyo.

The altitude of the base is 1,870m, so dry snow piles up. In addition to the powder, the natural topography is rich and interesting, and it is very popular with freeriders. Opened in the 2021 season, "OFF THE PISTE" is an off-piste area where you can enjoy powder riding and tree riding on uncompacted snow. This is a limited area where only those who have attended one-hour classes held several times a month, signed an agreement, and wore armbands can ski. At the entrance of the course there is a sign like the one in the photo.

OFF THE PISTE is scattered in three places, "OPT I" at the top of the slope, "OPT II" and "OPT III", each with its own characteristics. OTP1 is a perfect course for introductory tree runs, with gentle slopes and wide spacing between trees. OTP2 is a relatively steep slope, and OTP3 is an open, undulating slope with sparse trees.

*For more information on Kawaba Tree Run , check out STEEP here

Top altitude
1,870m
Longest
run 3,300m
Elevation difference
580m
Maximum slope
34°

10 courses

5 lifts
Gondola
-base
ropeway
-book

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

I want to read together

I want to read together
Popular tree run and fast track Ayana Onozuka skis down the Kawaba ski resort, which is full of skiing. Kawaba is the closest ski resort 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 offers the finest Sara...

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top altitude
1,430m
Longest
run 3,200m
Elevation difference
447m
Maximum slope
38°

18 courses

5 lifts
Gondola
-base
ropeway
-book

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

I want to read together

I want to read together
Okumino Powder | The Takawase & Dynaland tree run areas are now popular . It's true that snow accumulates at the ski resorts in this area, but that alone is unstable, so artificial snow machines are always on hand. Therefore, it can be used on hard slopes such as moguls, snow parks, and technical selection.

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