December brings a large amount of snow, and ski resorts around the country are opening one after another. There are many great deals and fun events during the opening period. It's almost time for the first ski of the season as we prepare for the season to officially begin. So, where will you go first in the 23-24 season?
*Please check the official website and SNS of each ski resort for daily updated information.
Ski resort information open as of December 5th
Snow Park Yeti ｜Shizuoka Prefecture
Opened from Friday, October 20, 2023
In the 2023-24 season, the regular price (1,200 yen) will be free!
Yeti opens the earliest in Japan every year and has become a seasonal feature. This year also marks the 25th consecutive year that the opening was the earliest in Japan. With snow machines and snow compactors in full operation, the slope conditions are stable and good. You can enjoy a pleasant ski run under the blue sky with an outstanding rate of sunny skies. A one-day ticket valid until 10pm is 4,300 yen on weekdays and 5,000 yen on weekends. Night game tickets (from 15:30) are 2,900 yen (all for adults). If you become an e-mail newsletter member, you will receive a 400 yen discount on night game tickets. However, please note that on Mondays in October/November, it is open until 5:00 pm and there are no night games. This season, in recognition of Japan's fastest opening in 25 years and as a thank you for your continued patronage, the parking lot, which used to cost 1,200 yen, will be free all day.
Business hours: Weekdays 10:00-22:00, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays 9:00-22:00 (night games start from 15:30)
◆ Official HP / https://www.yeti-resort.com/
Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort｜Nagano Prefecture
Opened on Wednesday, November 1, 2023
50th anniversary of opening! December 23rd (Saturday) 12:00~ Celebration event will also be held
Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort is conveniently located within 2 hours by car from the Tokyo metropolitan area and 1 hour by Shinkansen from Tokyo. With artificial snow, it usually opens in early November, the earliest in Nagano Prefecture. The 23-24 season is also scheduled to open from November 1st. . At the opening event, basic skiing demonstrators from Nagano Prefecture will gather to perform their ski runs, a large gathering of mascot characters, a raffle, and sales of specialty products from the prefecture are planned.
Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. A fun event to celebrate the birthday of the mascot character "Tonakki" will be held from 12:00 on Saturday, December 23rd. The event will be open to the first 150 people and will be sure to please children, including a raffle and a photo session with the reindeer. At Prince Snow Resorts, including Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort, lift fees are free for children up to elementary school age this season as well through the ``Prince Snow Resort Kids Free Program''. This is also a nice present.
Business hours 8:00-17:00
Official website: https://www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/karuizawa/winter/
Sayama Ski Resort | Saitama Prefecture
Opened on Friday, November 3, 2023
The snow park that parents and children can enjoy has been powered up!
Sayama Ski Resort is extremely popular due to its easy access, just 40 minutes from Ikebukuro, and the stability of its covered, all-weather ski resort. There is a full kids' park for children ages 3 to elementary school students, and the gentle slope can be accessed from the middle of the escalator, making it perfect for debuting snowboarding. With a one-day ticket price of 4,000 yen for adults (junior high school students and above) and 1,000 yen for children (3 years old to elementary school students), it is very popular with families in the metropolitan area as a spot where you can easily experience skiing in the city.
The snow park is powered up this season, where even small children can enjoy the snow with peace of mind, including the "Snow Play Area" where you can enjoy sledding and snow striders, and the "Fluffy Area" with athletic and other air play equipment!
Admission tickets are 1,000 yen regardless of age. There are plenty of stage shows and events throughout the day. Business hours: 10:00-21:00
All-night operation: Friday, December 1st, 2023 - Saturday, December 23rd, 2023 22:00-6:00 the following day (every Friday and Saturday)
◆ Official HP / https://www.seibu-leisure.co.jp/ski_we
Shiga Kogen Yokoteyama/Shibutoge Ski Resort｜Nagano Prefecture
Pre-opening on Saturday, November 18, 2023
From opening until December 22nd, 1-day lift tickets are discounted at 5,600 yen.
The top altitude is 2,307m, so it snows quickly on Mt. Yokote and Shibu Pass. In addition, with the operation of artificial snow machines, we opened early this season on November 3rd. It is the only snow machine in the Shiga Kogen area that uses both artificial snow and natural snow. On the opening day, a luxurious session between ski resort icons Toshihiro Kaiwa and Saburo Watanabe and Yukima Horishima will be held. You can purchase lift tickets in advance online. There will be a discount for the first ski from the opening until December 22nd, and the price will be reduced from the usual 6,000 yen to 5,600 yen.
Business hours: 8:30-16:00
◆ Official HP / https://yokoteyama2307.com/
White Pia Takasu｜Gifu Prefecture
Opening on Saturday, November 18, 2022
Open from 6:30 on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays during the opening period from opening to December 17th!
White Pier Takasu is conveniently accessible, being approximately 15 minutes from Takasu IC and 10 minutes from Hirugano Kogen Smart IC, and is known for opening early every year due to its ice crusher. This season, the store is scheduled to open from 6:30 a.m. on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays during the opening period from November 18th to December 17th. However, lift tickets that allow skiing from 6:30 a.m. are only available early in the morning; season tickets, advance tickets, discount tickets, etc. can only be used from 8:00 a.m.
Opening fees include special rates for one-day lift tickets until December 17th (Sunday), 5,000 yen for one-day tickets, 4,000 yen for 4-hour tickets (adults: between 8:00 and 16:00), and early morning tickets ( 6:30~10:30) Available for purchase for 4,000 yen.
Business hours: 8:00-16:00
◆Official HP／ http://www.whitepia.jp/
Tengendai Kogen Ski Resort ｜ Yamagata Prefecture
Opening on Thursday, November 23, 2023 (holiday)
It is 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.'' For this reason, it boasts a long season that lasts six months from early December to Golden Week in May. 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.
This season, a pre-opening and safety prayer festival was held on November 22nd, with the official opening the following day on the 23rd. Is it the fastest all-natural snow in the country? ! As part of the first-time skiing campaign, guests who visit from November 23rd to December 15th will receive a 20% off one-day ticket valid for the next time.
◆ Official HP / https://www.winter.tengendai.jp/
Kumanoyu Ski Resort ｜Nagano Prefecture
Opening on Thursday, November 23, 2023
Most of the bowl-shaped ski resort, which stretches between 1,690 and 1,960 meters above sea level, is on the north slope. It is a popular spot in Shiga Kogen known among powder freaks. The reason for this is the existence of Mt. Kasa, which is located behind the ski resort. When snow clouds cover this mountain, large amounts of dry, fresh snow fall. Although it is a compact ski resort, the courses are sloped and have many drop-offs, so you won't get bored easily. Usually, the snow falls early, and the park opens in late November with a mix of natural snow and artificial snow machines. Upon opening, ski slope conditions will be distributed every morning from the website to YouTube LIVE and SNS.
◆ Official HP / https://www.kumanoyu.co.jp/
Sapporo International Ski Resort｜Hokkaido
Opening on Friday, November 30, 2023
Scheduled to be the fastest opening in Hokkaido with natural snow
It is easily accessible, only an hour's drive from Sapporo, and has a reputation for the quantity and quality of snow, making it a firm favorite among Sapporo locals. With the opening, there will be a ``Lunch Pack'' that includes a one-day pass with lunch, a ``Parent-Child Pack'' that includes a 1-day pass for elementary school students, and a ``Hot Spring Pack'' that includes bathing tickets to nearby famous hot springs such as Jozankei Onsen and Asarigawa Onsen. You can take advantage of advantageous packages such as ``. Season tickets for elementary school students will be given a surprise discount of 53% off for a limited time from the opening until December 10th (Sunday).
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Business hours: Weekdays 9:00-17:00 Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays 8:30-17:00 ◆Official website/ https://www.sapporo-kokusai.jp/
SAPPORO TEINE｜Hokkaido
Opening on Friday, December 1, 2023
“Early bird discount” for “KWP 2023-2024” is available until November 3rd (Friday)
SAPPORO TEINE is easily accessible, approximately 40 minutes by car from central Sapporo. From the mountaintop, which is over 1,000m above sea level, you can enjoy a thrilling ride while looking out at the beautiful scenery of Sapporo city and Ishikari Bay. The open forest nature zone is a powder paradise with uncompacted snow. The season starts early every year. This season, the Highland Zone was scheduled to open on Saturday, November 18th, and the Olympia Zone was scheduled to open in early December, but due to light snow, it was postponed to December 1st. Speaking of Sapporo Teine, the ``K Winter Pass/KWP 2023-2024'', a common lift season ticket for the four ski resorts of the Kamori Kanko Group (Sapporo Teine, Rusutsu Resort, Sahoro Resort, and Nakayama Pass Ski Resort), is extremely popular every year. ing.
Business hours: 10: 00-16: 00
Official HP / https://sapporo-teine.com/snow/
Natsuyu Kogen Ski Resort | Iwate Prefecture
Opening on Sunday, November 26, 2023
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. It has 14 courses with 2 gondolas and 5 lifts, but the tree run area has been actively expanded year by year, and there are currently 13. The combination of heavy snow powder and a variety of tree run courses with rich terrain has given it an overwhelming presence as one of Japan's leading tree run spots. It also has a high-quality park that takes advantage of the overwhelming snowfall and boasts over 20 types of items and meticulous maintenance from early in the season. The heavy snow powder and park are among the best in the Tohoku region, making it known as ``Tohoku has the best of summer.'' Four types of early bird one-day tickets are on sale until December 8th. Early bird one-day tickets for adults cost 4,900 yen instead of 6,000 yen, a saving of 1,100 yen. The ``Early Bird 20 Hour Ticket'', which appeared in the 2023-24 season, is available for a limited time only and can be used at any time during the season for 19,800 yen for ``1 hour x 20 tickets''. Check the official website for details.
◆ Official HP / https://www.getokogen.com/winter/
Kagura Ski Resort | Niigata Prefecture
Opening on Sunday, November 26, 2023
This ski resort in the Yuzawa area of Niigata Prefecture has a strong powder and backcountry feel. It is usually open from late November to late May. In addition to being easily accessible within 2 and a half hours from the Kanto area, it also has a good reputation for its snow quality due to its heavy snowfall and high altitude. Another reason for its popularity is that there are so many areas where you can ski, including the part that connects to Tashiro. Kagura's on-piste powder course has three lines of varying slopes and distances. It has good access to the backcountry, and you can enter the mountain through the BC gate from the summit lift. You can ski if you submit a mountain climbing report and have BC equipment. There are many backcountry tours offered by guide services for beginners and intermediates, so it's perfect for a safe debut in the backcountry after getting some basic training on the slopes.
◆ Official HP / https://www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/kagura/winter/
Rusutsu Resort｜Hokkaido
Opening on Thursday, November 30, 2023
Located in the central Hokkaido area, Rusutsu Resort is strongly supported by freeriders because of its excellent powder snow and intermittent snowfall from December to February, which has a high powder hit rate. With 37 courses and a total run distance of 42km, it boasts the largest scale in Japan for a single resort. Hooded lifts and gondolas are functionally laid out in a vast field, so it is characterized by efficient skiing and comfortable movement.
This season's attention is on the advance gondola/lift ticket ``25-hour ticket + 5''.
This ticket is a 25-hour ticket with 5 hours worth of benefits, and 1 hour is consumed the first time you pass through the gate. You can go through the gate as many times as you like during the next hour, so your hourly ticket will not be depleted. It is a system that can be used effectively by recognizing that it is a ticket containing 30 one-hour tickets. Even if you don't use it all up on the day you start using it, you can enjoy the remaining time across dates during the season. It's a great deal because you can use up all your tickets for 30 hours. Please give it a try. ◆Official website/ https://rusutsu.com/
Furano Ski Resort｜Hokkaido
Opening on Monday, November 27, 2023
Furano is attractive for its vast scale and dry powder that can only be found inland. The quality of the snow that falls in the Furano Basin is said to be exceptional even within Hokkaido, and is affectionately known as ``FURANO bonchi powder.'' You can access downtown Furano in about 10 minutes from the ski resort. It's also great to be able to enjoy sightseeing and gourmet food in Furano Town after work or on days when you don't have to go up the mountain.
◆Official HP/ https://www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/furano/winter/
Marunuma Kogen Ski Resort ｜Gunma Prefecture
Opening on Saturday, December 2, 2023
You can enjoy a variety of skiing experiences, including a long ride with a distance of 4km, a beautiful compacted snow slope, a terrain play paradise, an uncompacted snow powder area, and a moguls area. Also, due to its altitude of 2,000 meters, it has a reputation for good snow quality. On powder days, you can go around the entire ski resort with just one ropeway, which is extremely efficient. Many people use season passes during the long season due to the appeal of being able to enjoy 13 courses from top to bottom in a variety of styles and lines. For the '23-24 season, if you apply for the "Kids Program", children under elementary school age will receive a free one-day lift ticket! (A card issuance fee of 1,500 yen is required.) Applications are due by December 15th.
◆ Official HP / https://www.marunuma.jp/winter/
Okutadami Maruyama Ski Resort | Niigata Prefecture
Opening on Tuesday, December 5, 2023
Oku-Tadami Maruyama Ski Resort is located in one of the heaviest snowfall areas in Japan, and due to the amount of snow it receives, it is a famous and popular spot for its first ski runs from late November and spring ski runs from late March. Although the number of lifts is small, the maximum skiing distance from the summit to the base is a whopping 4,000m. You can enjoy dynamic skiing, enjoy uncompacted snow courses, tree runs, hit the walls on the side of the course, and play with the terrain. Powder is a treat in winter, and bumps are a treat in spring.
◆Official HP／ //okutadami.co.jp/ski/
Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort ｜Nagano Prefecture
Opening on Wednesday, November 29, 2023
Nozawa Onsen is a hot spring town full of Japanese atmosphere and one of the largest ski resorts in Japan. There is a lot of snowfall throughout the season, and there are 36 courses that will satisfy everyone from families, 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 skiing distance is long, and there is plenty of natural terrain. The lifts are properly placed, allowing you to flow efficiently to various courses.
The uncompacted snow zone in the Yamabiko area at the top of the mountain is popular with skiers and snowboarders who like powder. Not only is there a tree run among the beautiful beech and white birch trees, but you can also ski outside the course, making it an irresistible zone for lovers of deep snow. After skiing, you can enjoy Nozawa Onsen by strolling through the hot spring town, soaking your feet in a footbath, or visiting one of the 13 public baths.
This winter, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the opening of Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort, 100th Anniversary Premium tickets ``Ski 100th Anniversary Card'' will be sold in a limited edition of 3,000 pieces. Scheduled to go on sale on December 15, 2023 at the "Tourism Association Official Online Store". A must-see for Nozawa fans.
◆Official website/ http://www.nozawaski.com/winter/
Hoshino Resorts Tomamu ｜Hokkaido
Opening on Friday, December 1, 2023
There are 29 courses in total, consisting of two mountains: ``Tomamu Mountain'' which spreads over Mt. Tomamu with an altitude of 1,239m, and ``Tower Mountain'' on the east side. You can enjoy the dry powder that is unique to the extremely cold inland region. The side country area of the ski resort is open to advanced skiers only. You can enjoy a tree run in a beautiful forest zone with a variety of ups and downs, and it attracts fans of powder enthusiasts.
At the top of Mt. Tomamu, you can enjoy a magnificent natural panorama at the ``Rime Ice Terrace'', ``Hotaru Street'' where you can ski in and out, ``Mina Mina Beach'', one of the largest indoor wave pools in Japan, and create a fantastic world of ice. ``Ice Village,'' which opened this winter, will also feature a ``Ski-in Ski-Out Kotatsu Lounge'' on Hotaru Street.
◆ Official HP / https://www.snowtomamu.jp/winter/
Kiroro Snow World ｜Hokkaido
Opening on Sunday, December 3, 2023
It's close to Sapporo city, so you can easily take a day trip even if you stay in Sapporo. Kiroro is blessed with over 5 meters of snow at peak times. During high season, it snows almost every night and the course conditions are reset. Another advantage is that the temperature is consistently low, which means that high-quality powder can be maintained throughout the season. What is irresistible for freeriders is the five off-piste areas where you can enter and ski through the entrance located within the ski resort management area. The variety is truly diverse, with beautiful broad-leaved forests, varied natural terrain, deep powder spots, and courses full of exploration. One of the hot topics for the 2023-24 season is the opening of Club Med Kiroro Grand in December. Club Med's unique all-inclusive resort life with lift tickets, lodging, and activities is now available at Kiroro.
◆Official website/ kiroro.co.jp/ja/
Niseko Village Ski Resort | Hokkaido
Opening on Friday, December 1, 2023
Niseko Village has the most courses in Niseko United.
There are 3 gondolas and 30 courses, making it outstanding in terms of maneuverability and course variation. The lower part of the resort has a relatively gentle slope, so it's perfect for beginners who want to enjoy Niseko powder but have just switched to fat skis, or intermediate skiers who aren't quite confident in steep and deep powder. The upper section has a lineup of attractive courses, including steep slopes and uncompacted snow courses for advanced skiers, and forest courses that weave through virgin forest. The '23-24 season will also be full of powder and events. Every Saturday from 12/16 to 2/24, there will be live performances of Yotei Taiko at the shopping and dining "The Village", countdown fireworks, Toshikoshi soba, mochi pounding, New Year's first sunrise gondola, and other fun activities during the New Year's holidays. It's full.
◆ Official HP / https://www.niseko-village.com/ja/
Sahoro Resort ｜Hokkaido
Opening on Sunday, December 3, 2023
Tokachi Sahoro Resort, located almost in the center of Hokkaido, is easily accessible from the three gateways of Asahikawa, Obihiro, and New Chitose Airport, as well as sightseeing, making it easy to plan a tour route.
There are vast backcountry fields surrounding the area. In recent years, the style of staying at Sahoro Resort and freely skiing the powder and backcountry fields of the Tokachi area, commonly known as the ``Hokkaido Powder Belt,'' has become popular in recent years. 50% of the entire resort has uncompacted snow, and all 5 courses on the north slope have uncompacted snow. The natural terrain remains intact, making it perfect for free runs. However, it is not as crowded as the Niseko or Sapporo areas, so it is actually a special hidden spot.
◆ Official website / https://sahoro.co.jp/
Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain｜Fukushima Prefecture
Opening on Saturday, December 2, 2023
The birth of "Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain" has become the hottest topic in ski resorts for the 2023-24 season. Two major ski resorts, Hoshino Resorts Arutsu Bandai and Hoshino Resorts Nekoma, have been reborn by being connected by a connecting lift at the top, with a total ski area of 189ha, 33 courses, and 13 lifts, making it the number one ski resort in the Tohoku region. It has become a mega-scale resort. The long-awaited opening is scheduled for December 1st.
On the official website, there are various "FUN" events, "challenge" competitions, and events that "everyone" can enjoy! The event plans were being announced lively, and I was getting excited. The secret to its popularity is its long season, where you can ski until Golden Week in May, and a season ticket for the month of November is a whopping 38,000 yen.
◆ Official HP / https://www.nekoma.co.jp/
Tsugaike Mountain Resort｜Nagano Prefecture
Opening on Thursday, November 30, 2023
Tsugaike Plateau is one of the biggest in HAKUBA VALLEY. There is an elevation difference of approximately 900m from the summit of the mountain at an altitude of 1,704m to the foot of the mountain. There is a total of 10 courses with 1 gondola and 18 lifts, and it is a big scale event where you can enjoy downhill grooming barns that are over 4km long. There is a tree run area at the top of the slope and access to the backcountry area. Additionally, ``TSUGA POW DBD,'' which you can only enter by attending a lecture and receiving an armband in advance, is now the face of Tsugaike for powder enthusiasts. Many freeskiers come here in search of the finest powder known as ``Tsuga Pau.''
In the '23-24 season, "Kanaru Grand Snow Park" will be available at Kane no Naru Oka Slope! More snow activities will be available. Additionally, the width of the sliding area on the Hannoki high-speed slope will be expanded, making cruising more enjoyable.
◆ Official HP / https://www.tsugaike.gr.jp/
Niseko Hanazono Resort｜Hokkaido
Opening on Saturday, December 2, 2023
``Niseko HANAZONO Resort'' is located on the easternmost side and has the conditions for snow to accumulate most easily in the Niseko area and for long-lasting powder snow. It is easily accessible from Hirafu, and many skiers access it as a place to return to the slopes from the backcountry area. There is also a park at the bottom that can be accessed using a high-speed lift, and there is also a tube park in front of the ``HANAZONO Resort Center.'' It is attractive for its variety of courses and its almighty range from powder to park. The ``HANAZONO Symphony Gondola'', equipped with genuine leather seats, has become very famous, as it travels 1,589m from the bottom to the summit station in just 5 minutes and 30 seconds.
For the '23-24 season, a tap bar will be available at Niseko HANAZONO Resort's iconic restaurant "HANAZONO EDGE"! Open until 7pm to coincide with the night game, you can always enjoy eight brands of beer, including local beers from the Niseko area. It's also great to spend time watching the fireworks every Saturday! No doubt about it.
◆ Official website / https://hanazononiseko.com/ja/winter
Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu｜Hokkaido
Opening on Saturday, December 2, 2023
Located in the center of Niseko, there is a wide variety of courses, from courses perfect for powder runs to grooming (compacted snow) courses where you can enjoy high-speed turns. All courses are designed with a lot of slopes and undulations, so even advanced skiers will find plenty of slickness. The variety of courses that you can ski all day without getting bored is one of the best in Niseko and boasts high popularity.
Another face of Grand Hirafu is the night game. This is surprising since it is the largest course in Japan in terms of area and variation. Although it was not in operation for a long time due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Hirafu Gondola night game has resumed, and the Grand Hirafu night game will be back this winter for the first time in four years! The freeride park will also be revived at the same time. "Rest House Ace Hill" has been reborn as a pasta specialty store, and expectations are high for its revival and many happy comebacks in the 2023-24 season.
◆ Official website / https://www.grand-hirafu.jp/winter/
Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort | Hokkaido
Opening on Saturday, December 2, 2023
Located at the entrance to the Niseko area and a little far from NISEKO UNITED, it is a hidden gem in Niseko.
Moiwa is considered a powder sanctuary and has gained tremendous support from local and JAPOW hunters. Although it is compact with only three lifts, there is a wide range of areas that you can go from ski resorts to sidecountry and backcountry. In Moiwa, snow tends to fall overnight, sometimes up to the chest in one night. The snowfall can reach up to 4 meters, and it is also famous for its deep powder. From December 2, 2024, when the 2023-24 season starts (planned) to December 15, 2024, a one-day lift ticket will be priced at 7,000 yen (6,600 yen online discount) as part of the "early season."
◆ Official HP / https://niseko-moiwa.jp/ja/
Appi Kogen Ski Resort｜Iwate Prefecture
Opening on Saturday, December 2, 2023
Appi Plateau is known as ``Appi in Tohoku'' as a resort complex, with its sparkling beautiful corduroy burn, many of Japan's best long courses, and high-end hotels. There are 21 courses spread out in a radial pattern around Mt. Maemori, an independent peak with an altitude of 1,304m, and half of the courses are long, over 2km long. When you look at the course map, you will be overwhelmed by the scale of the course. Thanks to its topographical conditions and 40 degrees north latitude, Appi's snow is fine-grained and hard to harden. In recent years, Appi has steadily expanded its uncompacted snow and tree run areas, and currently has five areas. Not only does the topography change, but there are also a wide variety of trees, and the tree run is something special, as you can experience the beauty of Tohoku's natural beauty.
◆ Official HP / https://www.appi.co.jp/
Kawaba Ski Resort｜Gunma Prefecture
Opening on Saturday, December 2, 2023
2 hours north from Tokyo on Kanetsu Expressway. Kawaba is the closest to Numata IC. With an altitude of 1,250m at the base area and 1,870m at the summit, it is one of the highest ski resorts in the Kanto region, and during the high season it receives the finest natural snow. The vast slopes are dotted with a wide variety of courses, and the total skiing distance from the top to the bottom of the ski area is approximately 3,300m, making for an extremely long run. It is famous for its ``OFF THE PISTE'' where you can enjoy the off-piste feeling in a controlled and limited area on the slopes, three types of high-quality parks, and a mogul course that attracts many repeat visitors.
In the '23-24 season, the ``OFF THE PISTE'' skiing area will be further expanded! Parks that meet a variety of needs, from snow parks to SURF RIDE PARKs that are open for a limited time, are scheduled to be even more powerful with enhanced installed items.
◆ Official HP / https://www.kawaba.co.jp/snow/
Hakuba Happoone Ski Resort | Nagano Prefecture
Opening on Saturday, December 2, 2023
If you really want to pursue skiing, there is no ski resort that comes out on the right side of Happo. 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. Happo is considered to be the male of Hakuba because there are many other variations such as the direction of the slopes and undulations. Powder, bumps, terrain, everything is top notch quality.
From the opening until December 22nd, lift tickets will be available at a special discount as a ``first ski one-day ticket.'' You can save more than 2,000 yen by purchasing at the counter, from the usual 7,200 yen to 5,000 yen. If you pre-purchase online, you can purchase it a little cheaper. Test drives of new models from popular brands such as black crows, BLASTLACK, and ID one are scheduled to be held starting in December, when the season begins.
◆ Official HP / https://www.happo-one.jp/
Shiga Kogen Yakebitaiyama Ski Resort｜Nagano Prefecture
Opening on Saturday, December 2, 2023
As a single ski resort, Mt. Yakebita is the largest in Shiga Kogen. Furthermore, the snow quality is said to be one of the best in Honshu. There is also a ``Fast Track'' system that allows you to fully enjoy the powder, and there is also an uncompacted snow course, making it overwhelmingly popular among freeride enthusiasts in Shiga Kogen. The beauty of the scenery is also attractive. The 16 courses are laid out so that a beautiful coniferous forest envelops the ski slopes, making tree runs very satisfying. The slope base has a lineup of Shigakogen Prince Hotel's East, South, and West buildings. This is a high-spec resort that combines skiing and a sophisticated resort stay.
Shiga Kogen Yakebiyama Ski Resort's annual event, ``DESCENTE Fast Track,'' where you can enjoy the ``no track and grooming burn'' that no one has skied yet, will be held again this season. In addition, there are many themed projects such as ``Private Night Skiing'' and ``Experience Plan to Enjoy the Best Slope of Your Life'' under the theme of ``The Great View is at Prince.''
◆ Official HP / https://www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/shiga/winter/
Ryuoo Ski Park｜Nagano Prefecture
Opening on Saturday, December 2, 2023
Ryuo Ski Park is located in Kita Shiga in the Shiga area. Because the altitude is extremely high at 1,930m, you can see the Northern Alps and even Sado Island in the distance from the ropeway or SORA terrace halfway up the mountain. Sometimes you can see the sun setting behind a sea of clouds. The ``Ki Otoshi Course'', where you can fully enjoy the smooth powder snow guaranteed by the high altitude, is Ryuo's proud course, where powder freaks gather. Another popular park is a fun-themed park with small kickers, boxes, etc. designed to help beginners step up and improve their skills. Season tickets, which allow you to ski up to night skiing and can be used during the green season, can be purchased at an early discount during November.
◆ Official HP / https://ryuoo.com/winter/
Snowwave Park Shiratori Kogen｜Gifu Prefecture
Opening on Saturday, December 2, 2023
Shiratori Kogen is a unique snow wave park where you can ski anywhere you want, including under the ski lifts, without any course restrictions. The natural topography is rich and uneven, with many steep slopes and gaps. There are large natural streams and waves scattered about, making the entire slope feel like a huge park. However, the park is also very complete, with over 20 types of top-season items. The big kicker is especially famous. There is also a 2km long sledding course, the longest in Japan, which is exciting enough even for adults. Of course, families are also welcome. In the 2023-24 season, new routes will be added to the tree run course that opened in 2020. Expectations are high that it will be a course that offers plenty of natural terrain to enjoy.
◆Official HP／ http://www.siratori-k.jp/swp/
Togakushi Ski Resort｜Nagano Prefecture
Opening on Saturday, December 9, 2023
Convenient access, 40 minutes by car or bus from Nagano city. The slopes open on the northwestern slope of Mt. Agate with an altitude of 1,748m, and the bottom is as high as 1,300m above sea level, so you can expect stable snow quality and quantity during the season. In addition, the maintenance of the machine is meticulous, and you can enjoy high-quality powder until March. Combined with the superb view of the Togakushi mountain range and Mt.
On Saturday, December 9th, to commemorate the opening of the '23-24 season, one-day lift tickets will be priced at ¥2,000 for adults and seniors and ¥1,500 for children! After that, from December 10th (Sunday) to December 15th (Friday), there will be a ``first skiing service week'' where one-day tickets can be purchased for ¥3,500 for adults and seniors and ¥2,000 for children.
◆Official website/ https://www.togakusi.com
Mt. Norikura Snow Resort |
Opening on Saturday, December 9, 2023
Mt. Norikura Snow Resort is located 60 minutes from Matsumoto IC on the Nagano Expressway, near famous tourist spots such as Kamikochi and Shirahone Onsen. Located on the southeast side of the Northern Alps (Hida Mountains), it is at an altitude of around 2,000m, so its biggest attraction is that you can consistently enjoy the finest powder snow. There are 20 courses with 8 lifts, and several non-compacted snow courses. Norikura Onsen Village stretches out in the bottom area of the resort, and there are over 100 inns. It might be the perfect little-known spot to relax and enjoy skating and hot springs.
◆Official website/ https://norikurakogen.jp/winter/ski/
Takasu Snow Park｜Gifu Prefecture
Opening on Saturday, December 9, 2023
Being located at an altitude of 1,550m, the snow quality is good, making this a ski resort that is popular among powder enthusiasts. You can also ski Dynaland, which is connected at the top of the slope, with a common ticket. A single gondola allows for elegant cruising up to 4,900 meters. A 15-person gondola with a total length of 2,700 meters will take you to the top of the slope at an altitude of 1,550 meters, so even on bad weather days you can slide around in the gondola without feeling cold. The uncompacted snow course has been expanded every year, and you can enjoy powder to your heart's content on the tree run course on the north-facing slope. For jumping, it is a popular snow park with plenty of items, including a super pipe measuring approximately 120 meters and 7 meters in height that meets world standards.
There are plenty of topics to talk about in the 23-24 season, including the renewal of the first floor of the center house, the addition of new snow machines, and the expansion of the family snow area [Yukinos (formerly Kids Park)]. Don't miss the backcountry tours offered by Hakuba's "Bantei" which started offering from the 22-23 season!
◆ Official HP / https://www.takasu.gr.jp/
Arai Snow Resort｜Niigata Prefecture
Postponed opening on Friday, December 15, 2023 → Opening on Sunday, December 17!
Arai Snow Resort boasts an incredible amount of snowfall of 18 meters a year. The top of the slope is 1,280m above sea level, the longest run is 7.0km, and the layout is unique with its depth. Arai is famous as a freeride paradise, with 4 uncompacted snow courses and 10 freeriding zones (avalanche terrain), with a variety of terrain including steep slopes, tree runs, and long courses, with 84% of the slopes being non-compact. I can't help but be surprised since it's a slope of compacted snow.
This winter, a dream-like service will be born that will guide you around the vast Arai in the most efficient and skillful way, depending on the weather, snow quality, and level. There are three types of local guides: 1) Powder hunting to attack the best spots, 2) Nature exploration + skiing lessons for outdoor enthusiasts, and 3) English guides for overseas guests. The prices you might be interested in are ``ARAI Guiding'' Beginner/Advanced plan 20,000 yen per person per day, Private 1 group 40,000 yen (times vary) ``Inter Alpine Guiding'' 2 hours 26,000 yen. For more information, please visit the official website!
◆ Official HP / https://www.lottehotel.com/arai-resort/ja/ski-webzine.html
Kamui Ski Links｜Hokkaido
Opening on Wednesday, December 20, 2023
Kamui Ski Links in Hokkaido is known for attracting many skilled skiers.
With 25 courses, it is the largest in the northern Hokkaido area, and its icon is a box-shaped, four-seater yellow gondola, which is now rare. Due to Kamui's inland location, it is said that the powder quality in the high season is comparable to that of Niseko. 32% of the courses are uncompacted snow courses where you can enjoy the powder to your heart's content, and it's actually a great place for even powder lovers to ski. At the time of opening on December 20th, there was 100cm of snow in the mountaintop area, and it is already possible to take a long cruising distance of 4km from the mountaintop to the foothills. This season's lift tickets can be purchased from the Kamui Ski Links website or from multi-copy machines at 7-Eleven stores nationwide, both of which are very convenient. Many events are planned during the season.
◆Official website/ https://www.kamui-skilinks.com/
GALA Yuzawa｜Niigata Prefecture
Postponed opening on Saturday, December 16, 2023 → Opening on Wednesday, December 20!
GALA Yuzawa boasts unrivaled accessibility as a ski resort directly connected to the Shinkansen station.
Since it is directly connected to the station, there are many packaged products that come with the Shinkansen. Although it is compact, there are 16 courses, including the ``Falcon'' descent course, which is a long run of approximately 2.5km, and on clear days you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Yuzawa town hot spring town. For the 2023-24 season, the ``Yuzawa Snow Link'' pass will be introduced, allowing you to freely visit the three ski resorts of GALA Yuzawa Ski Resort, Yuzawa Kogen Ski Resort, and Ishiuchi Maruyama Ski Resort with one ticket! An astonishing mega-scale skiing area has been created, with a height difference of approximately 900m, a total width of approximately 5,000m, and a total of 48 courses.
◆Official website/ https://gala.co.jp/winter/
Naeba Ski Resort | Niigata Prefecture
Postponed opening on Saturday, December 16, 2023 → Opening on Thursday, December 21, 2023!
It has 24 courses with 3 gondolas and 11 lifts on the slopes that spread out over Mt. Bamboo shoots, and the longest run is 4km. It is Japan's most famous ski resort, with a full lineup of facilities centered around the Naeba Prince Hotel and a variety of activities. There are plenty of steep slopes, including Naeba's famous ``Big Slope'' with a maximum inclination of 32 degrees, as well as courses approved for the FIS Alpine World Cup, and the uncompacted snow course after snowfall becomes a steep and powdery surface with plenty of sliding potential.
On Sunday mornings, the ``Fast Track'' is popular with free skiers, where you can ride the first gondola as much as you want for 1,200 yen for 30 minutes before the gondola opens. Enjoy Mt.Naeba to the fullest by using Dragondora, which has access to the Kagura Ski Resort next door.
◆ Official HP / https://www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/naeba/winter/
Madarao Kogen Ski Resort｜Nagano Prefecture
Postponed opening on Saturday, December 16, 2023 → Opening on Saturday, December 23, 2023!
A long-established and popular ski resort that represents Shinetsu. Although Madarao has a top altitude of 1,305m, it is known for consistently falling high-quality snow and maintaining good conditions. The 30 course layout that takes advantage of the undulating natural terrain is also attractive, and the tree run course in particular is famous for being the best in Japan in both quantity and quality. Coupled with the unique powder called ``Mada Pow'', it creates an excellent freeride environment.
For the '23-24 season, the long-awaited and very convenient time tickets are now available! Furthermore, a new tree run course will appear this season next to the extremely popular tree run course "SAWA" course. Tree run heaven is sure to become more and more vibrant.
◆Official website/ https://www.madarao.jp/ski/course
Maiko Snow Resort | Niigata Prefecture
Postponed opening on Wednesday, December 20, 2023 → Opening on Friday, December 22, 2023!
Only 1 minute from Shiozawa Ishiuchi IC! The location is irresistibly convenient for those who prefer to drive their own cars. The slopes are divided into three areas, with a total of 26 courses that will satisfy everyone from beginners and kids to experts, and the longest run is approximately 6,000 meters. Maiko takes advantage of its rich natural terrain and is rapidly expanding its uncompacted snow and tree run courses, mainly in the Okuzoe area. Many of the courses face north, and the smooth Uonuma powder accumulates, making it a perfect freeride zone.
Auto gate system & IC card ticket will be introduced from 2023-24 season. You can purchase tickets in advance from the e-commerce site and pick them up from the automatic ticket machine, allowing you to stand directly on the slopes without having to line up at the ticket office. This is convenient and nice!
◆Official website/ https://www.maiko-resort.com/winter/
Ski resort scheduled to open soon
Yuzawa Nakazato Snow Resort | Niigata Prefecture
Scheduled to open on Thursday, December 21, 2023 → Open on Friday, December 22, 2023!
Approximately 10 minutes from Yuzawa IC, the ski center is directly connected to JR Echigo-Nakazato Station, making it easy to access by train. Its trademark is the unique Blue Train rest area, which uses an actual train, and is a popular resort for families with its many free rest areas and gentle slopes.
However, it has attracted a lot of attention from free skiers in recent years due to its rich terrain and variety of tree runs and powder spots.
For the 2023-24 season, a new "FWT ZONE" where you can enjoy wood rails and jumps will be introduced especially in the powder tree run area! I would love to go skating. ◆Official website/ https://www.yuzawa-nakazato.com/winter/
Muika Snow Resort｜Niigata Prefecture
Scheduled to open on Friday, December 22, 2023 → Open on Saturday, December 23, 2023!
Easy access, just 5 minutes by car from the Muikamachi IC on the Kanetsu Expressway. On weekends and holidays, there is also a scheduled shuttle bus to Muikamachi Station on the JR Joetsu Line. There are 12 different course layouts, ranging from a kids park where young kids can enjoy sledding, a medium slope where you can enjoy fast turns, and an uncompacted snow course where you can enjoy powder snow.
Recently opened, the mountain course outside the management area at the top of the slope has become very popular, and Muika is now a hidden powder spot for free skiers. During the harsh winter months, you can enjoy deep powder rides. From the 2023-24 season, IC automatic ticket gates will be introduced, making it more convenient and allowing direct access to the slopes.
◆Official website/ https://www.muikamachi.com/ski/
Charmant Hiuchi Ski Resort｜Niigata Prefecture
Opening on Friday, December 22, 2023！
Charmant Hiuchi is known as a heavy snow ski resort. The average snow depth in the high season exceeds 5m. Moreover, it is unbearable because a large amount of dry powder accumulates. 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". Efforts have been made not to compact the snow, and about 65% of the area is open to the public as non-compacted snow areas and courses.
In addition, 80% of the courses are suitable for intermediate and advanced skiers, which is also an unusual technical structure, making it a challenging ski resort that fully meets the expectations of skiers and snowboarders who want to pursue skiing. Fat ski rentals are also available. The environment is perfect for enjoying powder to the fullest.
◆Official website/ https://charmant-hiuchi.jp/
Muikamachi Hakkaisan Ski Resort | Niigata Prefecture
Opening on Saturday, December 23, 2023!
Its trademark is a ropeway that takes you up to an altitude of 1,147 meters in 7 minutes. Muikamachi Hakkaisan Ski Resort consists of 3 lifts, 11 courses spread out over a large field with an area of 31ha, the longest run distance of 5,280m, and an altitude difference of 805m. When the conditions are good, you can ski dynamically while admiring the majestic view of the sea of clouds below.
In addition, it is also famous for its many technical courses, including steep slopes with a maximum slope of 35 degrees and bumpy slopes, which intermediate and advanced skiers will be delighted by saying, ``It's incredibly responsive!'' It has a good reputation for the amount of snowfall and the quality of the snow. If you're someone who wants to show off their skills and pursue skiing to the fullest, this is probably one of the resorts you should visit in the Yuzawa area.
◆Official website/ https://www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/hakkaisan/winter/
Myoko Suginohara Ski Resort | Niigata Prefecture
Scheduled to open on Saturday, December 23, 2023 → Open on Sunday, December 24!
Even within the Myoko area, Myoko Suginohara Ski Resort is known for its wide ski slopes that are fun to enjoy long runs while admiring the scenic views. Lake Nojiri and Oku-Shinano can be seen below the Suginohara Gondola, which connects 3km to the top of Mt. Gondola at an altitude of approximately 1,500m. With an altitude difference of 1,124m, the ski run distance is approximately 8.5km, making it one of the longest in Japan. Myoko Suginohara is popular for its high-speed, long turns that not only satisfy carving enthusiasts, but also has a high reputation among powder freaks.
Early bird lift and gondola tickets for the 23-24 season will be on sale until Friday, December 22nd, just before the opening. A one-day ticket is usually 6,000 yen for adults, but it's 4,200 yen! A convenient 5-hour ticket can be purchased for 3,800 yen instead of the usual 4-hour ticket of 5,400 yen for adults. Do not miss it!
◆Official website/ https://www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/myoko/winter/
Seki Onsen Ski Resort | Niigata Prefecture
Opening on Saturday, December 23, 2023!
Seki Onsen is a famous ski resort among skiers and snowboarders who love powder, so much so that when you think of it, you immediately think of ``heavy snow.'' The Myoko area is the first area where cold air from the Sea of Japan causes snow to fall, and Seki Onsen in particular receives the heaviest amount of snow. The course design is simple with two lifts, but it is full of ups and downs, and most of it is uncompacted snow. You can easily enter the side country from the slopes, and there is also a cat operation called HIKARIGAOKA CAT TOURS.
Seki Onsen is unique and attractive because of its handmade hospitality. Information such as weather forecasts, powder forecasts, and ski slope conditions are carefully updated by the staff on social media, giving the place an indescribable sense of home. It is popular among powder enthusiasts as a hidden gem that you don't want to tell anyone about, and a spot that feels like home.
◆Official website/ http://www.sekionsen.com/index.php