Powd er Japan
Complete Japan Ski Guide www.seejapan.co.uk
SKI & BOARD JAPAN Contents Why Japan?
Reasons to ski/snowboard Japan............................................................................ 4
Hokkaido Overview........................................................................................................................... 6
Niseko Abundant powder every year!.................................................................................... 8
Furano Ski Resort Japanese country town with amazing snow........................................................10
Rusutsu Resort Hotel & Convention Hokkaido’s largest single ski resort......................................................................11
Nagano and Niigata Overview.........................................................................................................................12
Hakuba Japan’s premier alpine resort..................................................................................13
Shiga Kogen Japan’s largest winter resort....................................................................................14
Myoko Ski Area Enjoy the great powder snow..................................................................................15
Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort Modern resort in a perfect hot spring village setting.......................................16
Mt. Naeba Ski Resort Large in scale and great facilities..........................................................................17
Tohoku Overview.........................................................................................................................18
Zao Hot Springs Ski Resort Riding through the “Snow Monsters”....................................................................19
Appi Kogen Ski Resort Breathtaking scenery! Supreme snow, perfectly groomed!........................ 20
Alts Bandai The Mecca for snowboarders..................................................................................21
More snow resorts in Japan................................................................... 22 Further information on SKI & BOARD JAPAN ........................ 23 2 SKI & BOARD JAPAN
All information is based on data as of August 2013 and is subject to change without notice.
SKI & BOARD JAPAN 3
y h W JAPAN?
Furano Tourism Association
Reasons to ski & snowboard in Japan
Sapporo
Sendai Niigata
Hiroshima
Kyoto
Fukuoka
4 SKI & BOARD JAPAN
Osaka
Nagano Tokyo Nagoya
E xperience some of the finest powder snow in the world. Japan offers great r uns, var ied ter r ain and amazing alpine scenery. Soak up the culture, indulge in the local cuisine and relax in the natural hot springs after a day in the powder. Flights from the UK take 12 hours and arrive in Tokyo making it easy to combine your skiing and snowboarding with a city break. Once arriving in Japan the snow resor ts are just a short flight or bullet train ride away.
Aomori Prefecture Japan Ryokan Association
Colin Sinclair
Experience Amazing Powder Snow! Chilly winds from Siberia translate to heaps of quality powder snow being dumped on Hokkaido from November to April. The Tohoku, Nagano and Niigata areas on Honshu also receive consistent high quality snow throughout the season. Onsen (Hot Springs) One of Japan’s greatest assets. Nothing beats a relaxing soak after a day in the snow.
Enjoy delicious cuisine and Japanese hospitality Fabulous food and friendly faces. Japan is renowned for its excellent cuisine and the warmest hospitality. A winter holiday like no other! In addition to fantastic skiing, winter holidays to Japan offer visitors a completely different cultural experience that they do not get from skiing in the USA or Europe. Japanese cuisine, temples, natural hot spring spas,
the adorable snow monkeys and a huge range of exciting winter festivals will make your trip to Japan unforgettable! It’s affordable There are loads of reasonable ski packages available...and prices on the ground won’t break the budget. Exceed your expectations! Japan has a wide variety of s n ow r e s o r t s b e yo n d yo u r expectation. Check them out at www.snowjapan.com SKI & BOARD JAPAN 5
Hokkaido
Hokkaido
Sapporo
Sendai Niigata
Nagano Kyoto Tokyo Nagoya Hiroshima Osaka Fukuoka
Furano Rusutsu Niseko
6 SKI & BOARD JAPAN
Overview Japan’s nor thern island, Hokkaido has some of the best quality snow in Japan. It has long been recognised as a fantastic winter sports destination with the fir st Winter Olympics in Japan having been held i n H o k k a i d o ’s c a p i t a l , Sapporo, in 1972. The island is an all-season nature paradise and home to many natural wonders i n c l u d i n g D a i s e t s u -z a n National Park at the top of
Hokkaido Tourist Association
Hokkaido; the secluded Shiretoko Peninsula, Japan’s most recent addition to the UNESCO World Heritage list; Kushiro Marsh, home to a range of wild life including the Japanese crane ; the Shikotsu-Toya National Park, home to many volcanoes a n d l a ke s ; a n d th e eve r changing Shakotan Coast. There are also countless hot springs, like Noboribetsu Onsen, Jozankei Onsen and Sounkyo Onsen, where you can relax and rejuvenate after your journey.
H ok k a i do b oa s t s o ne of the busiest event calendars in Japan with over 1,200 festivals and events throughout the year. In winter, there is the Sapporo Snow Festival and the Monbetsu Ice Floes Festival. In summer, there is the Furano Lavender Fe stival, a s well as por t festivals in ever y coastal town to pray for a good catch and safe fishing.
Access from Narita Airport Airport Limousine Bus from Narita Airpor t to Haneda Airport: 75 minutes. Fly from Ha ne da A ir por t to S hin Chitose Airport: 90 minutes. Further information on Hokkaido, visit Visit Hokkaido http://en.visit-hokkaido.jp Hokkaido Tracks www.hokkaidotracks.com
SKI & BOARD JAPAN 7
Niseko
Abundant powder every year!
Niseko: Hokkaido consistently produces some of the world’s best quality and largest quantity of snow. Notably, Niseko’s four resorts: Niseko Mountain Resort Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village, Niseko HANAZONO Resort and Niseko Annupuri Ski Resort; enjoy these top snow conditions. On top of the great conditions, locals pride themselves on sharing their authentic culture and providing the finest Japanese hospitality, making every stay memorable. Each aspect of the area’s four resorts are briefly outlined below. Ski Areas: Niseko HANAZONO Resort’s varied terrain and access to massive off-piste areas has made it popular amongst visitors to Niseko. Offering gentle long slopes and dedicated learning areas for beginners, as well as three terrain parks and FIS half pipe for the adventurous, Hanazono has something for the whole family to enjoy. Grand Hirafu operates the largest number of lifts amongst the four Niseko resorts, offering visitors fast and easy access to the vastest and most diverse terrain in the area. Lifts open at 8:30am and for those who still have energy at the end of the day, powder can be skied until 8:30pm in Japan’s largest night skiing area, Grand Hirafu. Niseko Village boasts some of the best and longest powder skiing and snowboarding terrain in the country. Scenic courses lead through beautiful natural forests and family focused activities are abundant. On piste, Niseko Annupuri caters for novice to intermediate levels of skiers, while its access to a huge backcountry area, where skiing is permitted, makes it popular with more advanced skiers too.
8 SKI & BOARD JAPAN
Accommodation Hirafu village ha s many k inds of accommodation, including hotels, condominiums, lodges & pensions. One recommended accommodation is the Hotel Niseko Alpen which features a ski-in ski-out location, 130 rooms (from ¥10,500 per person including breakfast), shops, heated swimming pool, hot springs (inside & open air), bar, foot & body treatment, as well as a day care center. Niseko Village is the per fect base from which to enjoy a huge variety of outdoor activities. The Green Leaf Niseko Village and the Hilton Niseko Village both offer ski-in ski-out access throughout winter. Be sure to check out the happy hour deals for après ski at the Hilton’s or the Tomioka White Lounge & Bar at The Greenleaf Niseko Village. The guests can enjoy our natural Onsen located at each hotel. Soak in the natural hot spring bath before choosing from our seven gourmet restaurants. In Niseko Village , the perfect base from which to enjoy a huge variety of outdoor activities is The Hilton Hotel which offers ski-in ski-out access throughout winter. After a day on the slopes soak in the natural hot spring bath before enjoying teppanyaki in the hotel’s stylish Ren restaurant. In the Annupuri area, a suggested accommodation is the Niseko Northern Resort, An’nupuri. Located at the base of Niseko Annupuri Ski ground the hotel has 152 rooms (rooms from ¥15,000 for 2 people including breakfast) as well as Japanese & Western cuisine (buffet style, set course, meals, and other reasonably priced dishes).
Access from Narita Airport
Chuo bus and Donan Bus companies operate buses daily between ShinChitose Airport and Niseko: 2 hours 30 minutes. Japan Rail runs services from Shin-Chitose Airport to Kutchan: 2 hours 30 minutes.
Regional Specialities
Because Niseko is not only famous for its powder snow but also hot springs (Onsen), visiting Niseko is the perfect opportunity to experience this favorite Japanese past time and soak in the steaming water of an Onsen ( hot
spring) while enjoying the breathtaking snowscape. Hotel Niseko Ikoino Mura is famous for its rotenburo (open air hot spring ) . Other famous hot spring areas such as Konbu-Onsen & Yukichichibu can also be easily accessed.
Dining and Drinking
There are over 80 restaurants and bars in Hirafu Village, of fering an array of cool bars, delicious noodle houses, scrumptious Italian pizza bars and restaurants serving Hokkaido’s freshest seafood. There are three bars and total of seven restaurants in Niseko Village offering wide varieties of gourmet cuisines from Japanese to Western. In the Annupuri area guests can enjoy Japanese, Chinese and Western cuisine at the restaurants in Niseko Northern Resort, An’nupuri and NOOK Annupuri. BBQ dinner is available at Mokumokutei in Hotel N i s e ko I ko i n o M u r a . H A N A ZO N O 308 offers an array of Western and Japanese lunch options, including the famous Kani (crab) Ramen.
Après-ski
Guests can choose their favorite bar in Hirafu Village and enjoy talking with the locals and guests from all over the world. At Niseko Village, guests can enjoy hot springs, spa treatments, or Karaoke. Horse riding, snowmobiling and snow shoe trekking are ideal activities in Annupuri. The HANAZONO Activity Park has a range of fun and exciting snow-play activities for all ages, including the Winter zipline, snow tubing and sledding.
Lift Pass Niseko All Mountain Pass: 8-hour ticket ¥5,200, 1 day ticket (8:30am9pm) ¥6,000, 2 day ticket ¥10,900. Grand Hirafu / Hanazono only : 8-hour ticket ¥4,400, 1 day ticket (8:30am-9pm) ¥4,800 Niseko Village only : 5-hour ticket ¥3,600, 8-hour ticket ¥4,200 Annupuri only : 5-hour ticket ¥3,800, 8-hour ticket ¥4,400 Rental equipment Grand Hirafu: ski/board set 1 day ¥4,000, 2 day ¥7,000, 3 day ¥9,000 Niseko HANAZONO Resort Demo ski/board set 1 day ¥5,000 2 day ¥7,500 3 day ¥10,500 Niseko Village: ski/board set 1 day ¥5,000 Annupuri: ski/board set 5 hours ¥3,500 Number of Courses Grand Hirafu: 21 Hanazono: 11 Niseko Village: 27 Annupuri: 13
Niseko United All Mountain: (Beginner 36%, Intermediate 38%, Advanced 26%) Number of Lifts Grand Hirafu: 13 Hanazono: 3 Niseko Village: 7 Annupuri: 6 Longest Course Grand Hirafu: 4.6 km Hanazono: 4.55 km Niseko Village: 5 km Annupuri: 4 km Further Info Grand Hirafu: www.grand-hirafu.jp/winter/en Niseko HANAZONO Resort: www.hanazononiseko.com Niseko Village: www.niseko-village.com/en Annupuri: annupuri.info/winter/ english Niseko United: www.niseko.ne.jp/en Niseko Promotion Board: www.nisekotourism.com/en/
SKI & BOARD JAPAN 9
Furano Ski Resort
Japanese country town with amazing snow
Furano Tourism Association
Furano is a town of 25,000 people located in the geographical centre of Hokkaido. The town has a distinct culture and feel which appeals to families and more mature skiers and snowboarders. In Furano you can have a real Japanese experience as well as enjoy a world-class ski area before sightseeing and touring around the surrounding areas. The warmth of the locals and the sparkling snow are images you will hold forever.
Accommodation
T h e r e a r e 3 0 h o te l s a n d l o d g e s i n Fu r a n o w i t h e v e r y t h i n g f r o m backpackers at ¥ 2,500 per night, Japanese lodges, B&Bs and upmarket hotels which range from ¥4,500 to ¥20,000 per night.
Access from Narita Airport
Airpor t Limousine takes you from Narita Airport to Haneda Airport in 75 minutes. Asahikawa Airport is 100 minutes from Haneda Airport. Shuttle bus or taxi from Asahikawa Airport to Furano: 50 minutes (regular shuttle buses and taxis available). JR trains or shuttle buses available from Sapporo (Shin-Chitose Airport) to Furano: 3 hours.
Dining and Drinking
There are over 100 restaurants and bars in Furano offering everything from Japanese, Korean and Chinese to pizza, pasta and curry. You can find all sorts of Japanese delicacies in Furano as well as local specialities using local produce.
10 SKI & BOARD JAPAN
Après-ski
Night skiing goes to 8:30pm on both sides of the ski area. There are few ‘western’ bars in town and Furano’s nightlife is more relaxing and quiet than your average ski area. Great restaurants and hot springs and an incredible fairy lit arts and craft village are ideal for wandering around at night.
Regional Specialities
Furano is famous for light dry snow and blue sk y days with v i e w s s t r e tc h i n g across the valley floor to beautiful snow-capped mountains and a smoking volcano.
Lift Pass The Furano ski area is open on the one single pass and Kamui Ski Resort can be skied on the pass. 1-day ticket ¥4,500, Sunset & Night Pass (2pm-8pm) ¥3,500, Night Pass (5pm-8pm) ¥1,500 Rental equipment Extensive rental is available from ¥9,000 for full sets for skis and snowboards. Number of Courses 23 (Beginner 40%, Intermediate 40%, Advanced 20%) Number of Lifts 10
Snow & Culture
Longest Course 4 km
You come all the way to Japan, so why not visit Kyoto too? The Kyoto Official Travel Guide: www.kyoto.travel
Further Info www.furanotourism.com/en/ www.snowfurano.com
Rusutsu Resort Hotel & Convention Hokkaido’s Largest Single Ski Resort Rusutsu Resort is situated in a beautiful natural highland covering 1,700 hectares near the base of Mt. Yotei. In winter it is Hokkaido’s premier ski resort with three mountains (East, West and Isola) serviced by four gondolas, seven quads and seven lifts. The ski area, with a total run distance of 42 km including a 3.5 km legburner, has 37 beautiful courses. The board park is filled with challenging hits, and the amazing pipe extends to a length of 100m. The night skiing, the restaurants and shopping mall will certainly keep everyone busy during the evening as well. Accommodation
Yo u c a n c h o o s e f r o m a d i ve r s e range of room types that together accommodate over 3,000 guests. They are spread across four lodgings: the informal Highland Lodge, the Travel Lodge, the European st yle Nor th and South Wings and the 24 storey Rusutsu Tower. Authentic log houses and cottages suitable for ski groups and families are also available.
Access from Narita Airport
Airpor t Limousine takes you from Narita Airport to Haneda Airport in 75 minutes. Shin-Chitose Airport is 90 minutes from Haneda Airport. Bus from Shin-Chitose Airport to Rusutsu Resor t: approx. 2 hours ( Rusutsu Resort to Niseko: 60 minutes).
Dining and Drinking
Restaurants range from casual fast food shops and fun filled restaurants, to authentic Western, Chinese and Japane se re staurants. T he re are twelve restaurants in Rusutsu Resort. You will find an abundance of dining
options here, from grilled burgers and chips at Daniel’s Street to sushi and sashimi at Sekkatei, and comforting Italian at Costa Terazza.
Après-ski
A mong the facilitie s that c a n b e enjoyed after returning from the slopes are the shopping mall, game centre, ‘Rusutsu-no-yu’ big bath with sauna, the indoor wave pool, and karaoke rooms. You can also enjoy local beer while watching sports on TV at sports pub Cricket.
Regional Specialities
There are plenty of fun activities right outside your door, including fitness ski, snowmobiling, dog sledging, snow tubing, snow rafting and snowshoe nature tours. If you visit Rusutsu in February you can also take a day trip to the Sapporo Snow Festival. For seven days every February, Sapporo turns into a winter wonderland when the city is home to some 300 ice and snow sculptures. Frequent bus services are available between Rusutsu and Sapporo.
Lift Pass Lift pass prices are relatively cheaper than those at the major ski resorts in the USA, Canada and Australia. 1-day ticket ¥5,300, Night Skiing Ticket (4pm-8pm) ¥2,000 Discounted rates are available for hotel guests. Rental equipment A full set of equipment for rent are available for ¥10,200 which consists of a three-piece ski set, outwear and accessories. Number of Courses 37 (Beginner 30%, Intermediate 40%, Advanced 30%) Number of Lifts 18 Longest Course 3.5 km Further Info en.rusutsu.co.jp/
SKI & BOARD JAPAN 11
Nagano and Niigata
Sapporo
Sendai
Nagano Hiroshima
Niigata
Kyoto
Fukuoka
Tokyo Nagoya Osaka
Nozawa Onsen Myoko Shiga Kogen Naeba Hakuba
Overview The prefectures of Nagano and Niigata are dominated by 2,000-3,000 metre-class steep mountains and as such are home to a variety of resorts and diverse ski runs. The year round natural beauty of Nagano Prefecture is spectacular with the snowscape in winter being pa r ticula r ly b e au tiful. In w i n te r, s k i e r s a n d s n ow sport enthusiasts flock to the prefecture’s many ski resorts. The prefecture’s capital, Nagano City, hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics. In addition to its snow fields, Nagano is famous for hot springs including Nozawa Onsen, and Shibu Onsen which is well known for the snow monkeys which bathe in the hot spring at Jigokudani Wild Monkey Park. 12 SKI & BOARD JAPAN
The Echigo Mountain Range runs across the south east part of Niigata Prefecture, with 2,0 0 0 metre cla s s m o u nt a in s s t a n din g o n e af ter another to form a stretch of highlands across the prefecture. The areas bet ween mountains are dotted with ski resorts and hot springs. Niigata is home to many of Japan’s leading sake labels, whose product is made using the finest quality rice and water. There are many restaurants where you can enjoy the local sake with fresh seafood. Access from Narita Airport JR Narita Express from N a r i t a A i r p o r t to To k yo : a p p r ox . 6 0 m i n u te s . J R Nagano Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Nagano: 95-110 minutes. Myoko Kogen and Nozawa Onsen in Niigata Prefecture
can be accessed from Nagano Station. OR JR Jo etsu S hinka ns e n f rom Tokyo to Niigata: 2 hours. Further information about Nagano and Niigata, visit Nagano Prefecture Tourism Information www.snowlove.net (Ski) www.go-nagano.net (General) Enjoy Niigata enjoyniigata.com/english/ Jigokudani Wild Monkey Park www.jigokudani-yaenkoen. co.jp/english/top/english.html
Hakuba
Japan’s Premier Alpine Resort With twelve ski resorts including Happo, Goryu & Hakuba 47, Iwatake, and more than 200 runs spreading along the 3,000m high ranges of the Japan Alps, Hakuba is one of Japan’s largest and most respected world-class winter resorts. With ten metres of seasonal snowfall and a 1,071m vertical rise, Hakuba offers skiers and snowboarders good powder, many exciting trails ideal for the novice through to the expert, terrain parks, and backcountry fields for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. All this makes Hakuba a great location for your next ski holiday Accommodation
With around 700 different types of accommodation on of fer, Hakuba provides a good selection of proper ties ranging from one -star through to five-star resort hotels, as well as traditional Japanese “ryokan” hotels, “minshuku” Japanese inns, pensions, cottages, private cabins and budget backpackers.
Access from Narita Airport
JR Narita Express from Narita Airport to Tok yo: approx. 60 minutes. JR Nagano Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano: 95-110 minutes. Express bus from Nagano Station to Hakuba: 1+ hour depending on the resor t, Shared taxis are also available from Nagano Station to Hakuba and return. Chartered coach from Tokyo: 5 hours.
Dining and Drinking
Enjoy dining and eating out at any one of the more than 150 restaurants, shops, cafés, and bars. You have a choice of dishes from all over the world including Japanese, French, Italian, Mexican, and Chinese.
Experience the local cuisine in the Japanese-style atmosphere at many local “izakaya” Japanese pubs or soba noodle restaurants.
Après-ski
The night shuttle bus “Genki-go” runs in the village to take you to many shops restaurants, bars and pubs for your après-ski entertainment.
Regional Specialities
When you gaze at the mountains in the Hakuba valley, you will see why this resor t stands apar t from the rest. Huge 3,000 metre high jagged peaks tower above the town below. To stand on top of these snow covered mountains and gaze at the valley below is awe-inspiring and the views are postcard wor thy. Indoor and open air public hot springs, foot spas and hotel hot springs, are great for relaxing and rejuvenating after a day out on the mountain, and will make your stay all the more worthwhile. Hakuba Ski Jumping Stadium and the Winter Olympic Memorial Museum will remind you of the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympic Games. You can go up to the top observation deck of the jumping hills to look over the jumper’s area of flight and view the town below.
Lift Pass Happo–one 1-day ticket ¥4,600, A variety of consecutive and nonconsecutive 2-day and 3-day passes, Hakuba Valley Passes and senior tickets are available Rental equipment Good quality ski & snowboard equipment is available from as little as ¥4,500 per day Number of Courses 81 (Beginner 35%, Intermediate 40%, Advanced 25% ) Number of Lifts 59 Longest Course 8 km Further Info www.vill.hakuba.nagano.jp/english/ top/ski/index.html
SKI & BOARD JAPAN 13
Shiga Kogen
Japan’s Largest Winter Resort
With 21 ski fields, 70 lifts and more than 80 courses, Shiga Kogen is the biggest snow resort in Japan and caters for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. It is located in the Joshinetsu National Park and blessed with powder snow equal to Hokkaido in quality. There is no doubt you will enjoy skiing and unwinding at Shiga Kogen.
Accommodation
There are approximately 100 hotels, ryokan, B &Bs and minshuku in Shiga Kogen, with prices from ¥7,000.
Access from Narita Airport
JR Narita Express from Narita Airport to Tokyo: approx. 60 minutes. JR Nagano Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano: 95-110 minutes. Express bus from Nagano Station to Shiga Kogen: approx. 70 minutes.
Dining and Drinking
There are a variety of restaurants in Shiga Kogen serving original Japanese dishes as well as French, Italian and various other cuisines being available.
Après-ski
Bars, ethnic food restaurants and Japanese izakaya-style pubs can be found in some hotels.
14 SKI & BOARD JAPAN
Regional Specialities
Shiga Kogen has seven hot s p r in g s : Ku m a n oy u, K i d o ike, Hotaru, Shigayama, Takamagahara, Hoppo and Makuiwa. It also has breathtaking scenery most notably the beautiful view of the North Alps, “snow monsters” that appear as snow and ice forms around the trees at the resort, and the setting sun over the sea of clouds. A range of events, including snowshoe hiking are held during winter. Don’t miss the famous snow monkeys in the rock baths at Jigokudani Monkey Park.
Lift Pass 1-day ticket ¥4,800 2-day ticket ¥9,000 for all lifts and includes shuttle buses. Rental equipment Hotels supply good quality ski and snowboard equipments from ¥3,000. Number of Courses 84 (Beginner 48%, Intermediate 40%, Advanced 14%)
Number of Lifts 70 Longest Course 3.5 km Further Info ski-shigakogen.net
Myoko Ski Area
Enjoy the great powder snow The Myoko Ski Area is made up of nine mountains, Myoko Akakura, Ikenotaira Onsen, Myoko Suginohara, Seki Onsen, Kyukamura, Myoko Ski Park, APA resort Myoko Pine Valley, Madarao Kogen and Tangram Ski Circus, all with their own distinctive features. With great quality powder snow, high level bumps, refreshing long runs and a kid’s park for small children, the Myoko Ski Area has something for all skiers.
Accommodation
Accommodation is available for every skier, from the warm style and service of classic resort hotels to the intimate family-run B&Bs where you’ll soon feel right at home.
Access from Narita Airport
JR Narita Express takes you from Narita Airport to Tokyo Station in 60 minutes. JR Nagano Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano: 95-110 minutes. Approx. 40 minutes from Nagano to Myoko Kogen by JR Shin’etsu line. Taxi or free shuttle bus (depending on the ski area): 10-30 minutes.
Dining and Drinking
About 36 restaurants serve a selection of Japanese and Western meals. Don’t miss the local soba noodles and native mountain vegetables.
Après-ski
Regional Specialities
Founded in 1930s, Myoko is one of the oldest established ski areas in the world. In its rich history, you have an ideal holiday to enjoy a total Japan ski resor t experience. Onsen hot springs are the ideal place to unwind and relax: Myoko Onsen, Akakura Onsen, Suginosawa Onsen, Ikenotaira Onsen, Tsubame Onsen, Seki Onsen, and more. You can also visit historical monuments, the excavation museum or the Ukiyoe woodblock print museum.
Lift Pass 1-day ticket from ¥3,500 to ¥4,500, Mt. Madarao 1-day (Madarao Kogen and Tangram Ski Circus) ¥4,500 Rental equipment Ski and snowboard rental shops offer full-day ski set rental from around ¥2,500. Number of Courses 95 (Beginner 25%, Intermediate 53%, Advanced 22%) Number of Lifts 41 Longest Course 8.5 km Further Info www.myokokogen.net
There are many hot springs, and a range of good local restaurants and bars.
SKI & BOARD JAPAN 15
Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort Modern resort in a perfect hot spring village setting
Since 1930, Nozawa Onsen has always been at the top of the Japanese skiing scene, and more recently snowboarding has become popular in the area. It was the first place in Japan to install ski lifts and also holds numerous major skiing and snowboarding tournaments each year. Although, the snow resort of Nozawa Onsen offers modern facilities for both skiers and snowboarders, the village of Nozawa Onsen strives to maintain a traditional atmosphere. During the 1988 Nagano Olympics, Nozawa Onsen hosted the Biathlon competitions. Accommodation
More than 30 0 hotels, traditional Japanese ryokan inns and minshuku B & Bs welcome you with warm hospitality.
Access from Narita Airport
JR Narita Express from Narita Airport to Tok yo: approx. 60 minutes. JR Nagano Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano: 95-110 minutes, JR Iiyama line from Nagano to Togari Nozawa O nse n : approx. 6 0 minute s. Bus from Togari Nozawa Onsen Station to Nozawa Onsen: approx. 20 minutes.
Dining and Drinking
Enjoy local dishes at any of the 43 restaurants. They serve not only soba noodles or onsen-manju (steamed bun) but also wild vegetables such as nemagari-dake (bamboo shoots) and mushrooms. Nozawana-zuke, pickled green vegetable, is one of the local specialties.
16 SKI & BOARD JAPAN
Après-ski
Nozawa Onsen has over 60 cafes, bars and restaurants to enjoy.
Regional Specialities
In the centre of Nozawa Onsen you can see white steam rising up from almost everywhere, enabling you to feel the warmth of this village of hot springs. There are more than 30 sources of natural hot springs in Nozawa Onsen. The 13 cooperative spas called “Sotoyu” are assets shared by the village and have been protected since ancient times by a system known as “Yu-nakama” which means spa group. Remarkably “Sotoyu” are free of charge, so enjoy!
Lift Pass 1-day ticket ¥4,600, 2-day ticket ¥8,500, 3-day ticket ¥12,000, Season 5-days ¥20,000 Rental equipment There are some ski and snowboard rental shops. Ski set ¥4,000, New model ski set ¥4,000 Number of Courses 24 (Beginner 40%, Intermediate 30%, Advanced 30%) Number of Lifts 21 Longest Course 10 km Further Info www.nozawaski.com/winter
Mt. Naeba Ski Resort Large in scale and great facilities Comprised of the Naeba and Kagura areas, Mt. Naeba Resort covers 368 hectares with around 50 courses offering skiers and snowboarders a variety of runs guaranteed to deliver an unforgettable experience. Naeba and Kagura are connected by the world’s longest gondola “Dragondola” which travels 5.5 km in 15 minutes. The Naeba Area has a wide expanse of open ski fields and a snowboard free ride park. The Naeba Prince Hotel located adjacent to the Naeba Area is a popular destination for those seeking the after-ski night life. The Kagura area is a recognized ski field with abundant snow and spectacular scenery. Accommodation
The Naeba Prince Hotel offers a variety of room types and package plans. In addition to twin, triple and quad rooms, there are also adjoining rooms for groups up to 6 people. A Breakfast Pack is available from ¥10,500 per person per stay. Please note that the charge will vary depending on the season and room/package type.
Access from Narita Airport
JR Narita Express from Narita Airport to Tokyo: approx. 60 minutes. Keisei Sky Liner to Ueno: approx. 60 minutes. JR Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo (or Ueno) to Echigo Yuzawa: approx. 80 minutes. Taxi or Naeba Express Bus from Echigo Yuzawa Station to Naeba Prince Hotel: approx. 40 minutes and 50 minutes respectively.
Dining and Drinking
The Naeba Prince Hotel, has a wide range of eating and drinking outlets including 23 restaurants (Japanese, Chinese, Western, Buffet, and BBQ) and Cafes, Lounges, Bars and izakaya Japanese -st yle pubs. On the ski
fields, there are a combined total of 19 restaurants in the Naeba and Kagura areas.
Après-ski
The Naeba Prince Hotel of fers a variety of facilities for af ter ski including sports and souvenir shops, a nail and beaut y saloon, indoor swimming pool, massage service and hot springs.
Regional Specialities
The prefecture of Niigata in which Naeba is located is famous for hot springs and Japanese sake. Around Echigo Yuzawa Station you can find free “Ashi-yu” foot spas, and many shops selling local sake. Inside the station, there is the unique sake tasting corner and hot spring filled with sake.
Lift Pass 1-day ticket ¥5,000, 2-day ticket (valid for whole day of the first dayincluding Night Ski and until 4pm of the second day) ¥11,000, Afternoon + Night Ski ticket (valid from noon until the end of night ski) ¥4,500 Rental equipment Rental shops in the hotel provide full ski/snowboard sets which include ski/snowboard gear, suits, goggles and gloves for ¥7,500 per adult per day, ¥3,000 per child per day. The rental shops also rent individual equipment. Number of Courses 50 (Beginner 30%, Intermediate 40%, Advanced 30%) Number of Lifts 46 Longest Course 4 km Further Info www.snowjapan.com/japan-skiresort/mt-naeba
SKI & BOARD JAPAN 17
Tohoku
Sapporo
Tohoku
Sendai Niigata
Nagano Kyoto Tokyo Nagoya Hiroshima Osaka Fukuoka
Appi
Zao Alts Bandai
Overview
The Tohoku region located in the northern part of Honshu receives heavy snowfalls and has many r e s o r t s s c at te r e d a c r os s i t s six prefectures. Tohoku is also rich with a variety of traditional festivals and onsen (hot springs). Hokkoda in Aomori Prefecture is one of the best places for hardcore snowboarders, telemarkers and skiers. It offers fantastic steep and deep powder courses. Magnificent resor ts located in Iwate Prefecture are Appi Kogen and Shizukuishi, both of which have great snowfields and many attractions for visitors. Akita Prefecture has many traditional festivities and unique events throughout the year and you should not miss any of them. A m o n g t h e m o s t we l l k n ow n events are the Akita Kanto Lantern Festival which is representative of the entire Tohoku region, the Kamakura Snow Hut Festival in Yokote City, and the Namahage Bogeyman Festival in Oga City. S e nda i, the c apit a l of Miyagi
18 SKI & BOARD JAPAN
Prefecture and also the centre of Tohoku, is home to the Tanabata Star Festival. Not far from Yamagata City in Yamagata Prefecture is the resort of Z ao O nse n whe re you can experience amazing powder snow and the spectacular sight of the famous windswept snow covered trees known as snow monsters. Fukushima Prefecture has more t h a n 15 0 h o t s p r i n g s a n d i s home to L ake Inawashiro and the Bandai Plateau both which offer an abundance of seasonal tourist attractions including skiing, skating and swan watching.
Access from Narita Airport JR Narita Express from Narita A i r p o r t to To k yo : a p p r ox . 6 0 minutes. JR Tohoku Shinkansen and JR Tohoku Line take you from Tokyo to Aomori (via Hachinohe) in 4 hours. JR Akita Shinkansen from Tokyo to Akita: approx. 4 hours. JR Yamagata Shinkansen from Tokyo to Yamagata: approx. 2.5 hours.
JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Morioka: approx. 140 minutes, to Sendai: approx. 120 minutes, to Fukushima: approx. 90 minutes.
For further information about the Tohoku region, visit Aomori Sightseeing Guide en.aptinet.jp A Trip to Iwate www.japan-iwate.info/ Akita fan.com www.akitafan.com/en/index.html Miyagi Touring Navigation www.pref.miyagi.jp/kankou/en Welcome to Yamagata www.yamagatakanko.com Sights in Fukushima Japan www.tif.ne.jp/lang/en/
Zao Hot Springs Ski Resort Riding through the “Snow Monsters” Zao Hot Springs Ski Resort offers a variety courses for beginners, advanced level skiers and families. The excellent snow quality also attracts skiers from all over the country every year. Zao is also well known for its "snow monsters." Due to the particular climate of the area, fine snow and small pieces of ice cling to the fir trees on the mountains producing a spectacular natural work of art. Skiing through the snow monsters during the day and then viewing them illuminated at night is an experience that can only be found here!
Accommodation
Downhill from the ski resor t lays the hot spring town of Zao Onsen. Visiting a hot spring during a stay in Zao is very easy and relaxing too. The 120 hotels, ryokans (Japanese inns) and guesthouses in Zao Onsen can accommodate about 11,000 people. There are many gift shops and small bath houses in Zao Onsen, which will make your stay today, feel very much like one from the days of the old time Japanese health resorts.
Access from Narita Airport
JR Narita Express from Narita Airport to Tok yo: approx. 60 minutes. JR Yamagata Shinkansen from Tokyo to Yamagata: 2.5 hours. Shuttle bus bound for Zao Onsen from Yamagata Station: 40 min – 1 hour, depending on the traffic.
Dining and Drinking
Because of the many restaurants on the ski slopes (there about 40 restaurants), one can take time out from skiing or snowboarding to enjoy a nice lunch without leaving the resort!
A famous dish in Zao is the Genghis K h a n ( l a m b b a r b e c u e ) . Va r i o u s restaurants barbecue fresh lamb in their own special sauces providing a variety of different flavours.
Lift Pass 1-day ticket ¥4,800, 2-day ticket ¥8,900, 4-hour ticket ¥4,200, 5-hour ticket ¥4,400, Coupon ticket (15points) ¥4,000
Après-ski
Rental equipment Ski set 1-day from ¥3,800, Snowboard set 1-day from ¥4,000, Other small items are also available for rent. (Ski set=Skis, boots and poles, Snowboard set=board, boots)
Viewing the illuminated snow monsters is one of the special treats of Zao. They are truly fantastic and look very different than they do in the sunlight. As well as being able to see the snow monsters close up, you can also see them from the ropeway car s, the viewing platform and restaurants
Regional Specialities
Born from the distinctive climate, the sheer number of snow monsters in Zao presents one of the best sights in the world. As a sculpture of snow and ice, the snow monsters truly are one of nature’s amazing artworks. Also, since the ski fields are connected to the hot spring town of Zao Onsen, it is possible to ski down in front of the ryokans and straight into the hot springs!
Number of Courses 26 Number of Lifts 41 Longest Course 9 km Further Info www.zao-spa.or.jp/english/index. html www.jnto.go.jp/eng/location/ regional/yamagata/zaou.html
SKI & BOARD JAPAN 19
Appi Kogen Ski Resort
Breathtaking scenery! Supreme snow, perfectly groomed!
The highland of Appi Kogen sits adjacent to TowadaHachimantai National Park in nor theast Honshu. Amazing powder covers Appi’s entire 828 metre vertical from peak to base. Appi’s 21 trails are easily and comfortably accessible by two eight-person gondolas and three high speed, detachable, hooded quad chairs. And you can’t beat Appi Kogen’s variety: there is everything from bunny slopes to a 5.5 km cruiser to steep and deep! Appi Kogen has received the highest marks from a number of major ski magazines, and continues to be a mecca for skiers and boarders alike.
Accommodation
A p p i ’s h o t e l s , H o t e l Appi Grand and Tower, Appi Grand Villa and Appi Grand Annex, boast a capacity of 4,100 guests and a fabulous array of facilities to fit any preference or budget. And don’t forget to wash away your fatigue at one or both of our two natural hot springs!
Access from Narita Airport
JR Narita Express from Narita Airport to Tokyo: approx. 60 minutes. JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Morioka Station: 140 minutes. JR Hanawa Line from Morioka to Appi Kogen: 60 minutes. Shuttle bus or local bus from Appi Kogen Station to hotel: 5 minutes. Iwate Kenpoku Bus operates highway buses from Morioka Station to Appi Kogen: 60 minutes.
Dining and Drinking
In addition to the relaxed atmosphere a n d e xc e l l e n t v i e w, e n j o y l o c a l produce as fine cuisine. Appi’s hotels
20 SKI & BOARD JAPAN
have eleven restaurants ranging from Japanese, Chinese, Western to Korean BBQ.
Après-ski
Hotel Appi Grand has Bar PO (open 6pm till midnight), and Pool Bar San Remo (open 8pm till midnight). Appi Grand Villa 1 has Lively Café Lobelia (open 5.30pm-11.30pm).
Regional Specialities
Hotel Appi Grand has a large hot spring bath and a barrier-free private spa. Appi’s hot spring “Patio”, with direct corridor access from Appi Grand Annex, has its outdoor bath in a courtyard, with two large baths and one of Japan’s largest saunas.
Lift Pass 5-hour ticket ¥4,900, 8-hour ticket ¥5,200, 2-day ticket ¥9,400, 3-day ticket ¥13,500 Rental equipment Ski/Board Package 5-hour ¥4,200, 8-hour ¥5,000, Wear (Top and bottom) 5-hour ¥3,500, 8-hour ¥4,000, Accessory Package 8-hour ¥2,500 Number of Courses 21 (Beginner 24%, Intermediate 52%, Advanced 24%) Number of Lifts 18 Longest Course 5.5 km Further Info www.appi.co.jp
Alts Bandai
The Mecca for snowboarders Alts Bandai, Japan’s largest mega ski resort is blessed with quality snow and has a richly varied course layout making it the Mecca for snowboarders. Twice a year, the big names in snowboarding come here for the world class snowboard competitions. From novice to expert, every level of snowboarder can access Alts Bandai, Asia’s largest snow park and Japan’s most popular snow resort.
Accommodation
Mt. Bandai Hotel: The resort hotel is equipped with a heated indoor swimming pool, spa bath, hot spring and sauna to soothe your weary body. Lodge Alts: This lodge style accommodation is a great place to stay with friends.
Access from Narita Airport
JR Narita Express from Narita Airport to Tok yo: approx. 60 minutes, JR To h o k u S h i n k a n s e n f r o m To k y o Station to Koriyama: 80-105minutes. JR Ban’etsu-sai line from Koriyama to Inawashiro: 35 minutes. Shuttle buses available from Inawashiro Station to Alts Bandai Ski Resort / Mt. Bandai Hotel. Approximate time required is 5 hours from Narita Airport to Alts Bandai. Shat tle bus ser vice from Koriyama (100min).
Dining and Drinking
T h e r e a r e s eve n d i n i n g s p o t s i n Alts Bandai. You can choose either the buffet style dining, which has
Japanese, Western and Chinese style menus, or a restaurant where you can savour traditional Japanese cuisine. Curr y and rice is recommended because it is guaranteed to be delicious. If not, you will get your money back!
Lift Pass 1-day ticket ( 8.30am-5pm ) from ¥4,700, 4-hour ticket from ¥4,200,
Après-ski
Number of Courses 22 ( Beginner 35% , Intermediate 40%, Advanced 25%)
After a day in the snow, you can enjoy a variety of onsen (hot springs) at Oruri-no-yu hot springs. Mt. Bandai Hotel has a range of amenities for guests such as karaoke rooms, café, reflexology room and heated indoor pool with a spa bath.
Regional Specialities
Alts Bandai is located at the foot of famous Mt. Bandai in Bandai Town, Fukushima Prefecture. The area is rich in history and culture, and is an ideal place to unwind while enjoying the breathtaking scener y of Lake Inawashiro. You can enjoy free-flow hot springs as well.
Rental equipment Ski set and Snowboard set 1-day ¥4,500, 4-hour ¥3,500
Number of Lifts 11 Longest Course 3 km Further Info www.alts.co.jp/english
SKI & BOARD JAPAN 21
More snow resorts in Japan
Sahoro Resort
Tazawako Ski Area
One gondola covers all 16 courses which are blessed with powder snow. Number of Courses 17 Number of Lifts 8 More Info www.sahoro.co.jp/language/ english/
Let’s ski to the lapis-blue waters of Lake Tazawa. Number of Courses 13 Number of Lifts 6 More Info www.snowjapan.com/japan-skiresort/tazawako
Shizukuishi Ski Resort Enjoy one of the longest trails anywhere in Japan. Number of Courses 11 Number of Lifts 5 More Info www.snowjapan.com/japanski-resorts/iwate/shizukuishi/ shizukuishi
Kusatsu Kokusai Kusatsu is a hot spring and ski resort town, with heli-skiing and a family oriented atmosphere. Number of Courses 10 Number of Lifts 11 More Info www.kusatsu-kokusai.com www.snowjapan.com/japan-ski-resorts/ gunma/kusatsu/kusatsu-kokusai
22 SKI & BOARD JAPAN
Ishiuchi Maruyama Large snow area with the Three Resort Ticket valid at connecting GALA Yuzawa and Yuzawa Kogen. Number of Courses 24 Number of Lifts 15 More Info www.snowjapan.com/japan-skiresorts/ishiuchi-maruyama
Further information on SKI & BOARD JAPAN
Tour Operator Black Tomato 0207 426 9888 www.blacktomato.co.uk enquiries@blacktomato.co.uk
Japan Ski Experience 020 8099 9034 www.japanskiexperience.com info@japanskiexperience.com
Thomson Ski 0871 231 2268 www.thomsonski.co.uk via website
Club Med 08453 670 670 www.clubmed.co.uk reservations.uk@clubmed.com
Japan Travel Centre 020 7611 0150 www.japantravel.co.uk enquiry@japantravel.co.uk
Unique Japan Tours 020 3239 2519 www.uniquejapantours.com info@uniquejapantours.com
Crystal Ski 0871 236 6679 www.crystalski.co.uk via website
JTB UK 020 8237 1605 www.japanspecialist.co.uk info@japanspecialist.co.uk
ViaJapan Holidays 020 7484 3328 www.viajapan.co.uk english.uk@his-world.com
etours 0844 472 3166 www.etours.co.uk japan@emerald.co.uk
Magical Japan 0161 440 7332 www.magicaljapan.co.uk enquiry@magicaljapan.co.uk
Warren Smith Ski Academy www.warrensmith-skiacademy.com/ via website
James Orr Heli Ski 01799 516 964 www.heliski.co.uk adventure@heliski.co.uk
Samurai Snow 0203 151 7669 www.samuraisnow.com info@samuraisnow.com
More information on Skiing & Boarding in Japan
Iglu Ski (A) 020 8542 6658 www.igluski.com enquiries@iglu.com
Schools Ski 4 Less www.schoolsski4less.co.uk via website
Ineedsnow 020 8123 7817 www.ineedsnow.com info@ineedsnow.com
Ski Club of Great Britain Freshtracks 020 8410 2022 www.skiclub.co.uk freshtracks@skiclub.co.uk
Inside Japan Tours 0117 370 9751 www.insidejapantours.com info@insidejapantours.com
Ski Independence 0131 243 8097 www.ski-i.com ski@ski-i.com
Into Japan Specialist Tours 01865 841 443 www.intojapan.co.uk info@intojapan.co.uk
Ski Safari 01273 224 060 www.skisafari.com info@skisafari.com
Japan Journeys 020 7766 5267 www.japanjourneys.co.uk info@japanjourneys.co.uk
Skiworld 08444 930 430 www.skiworld.co.uk sales@skiworld.ltd.uk
Jaltour 020 7850 4409 www.jaltour.co.uk jaltour@ectuk.com
Snoworks 0844 543 0503 www.snoworks.co.uk info@snoworks.co.uk
Snow Japan www.snowjapan.com Snowboard the World www.boardtheworld.com Powder snow Hokkaido www.skiing-hokkaido.com Mt.6 Best of the classic Resorts www.mt6.jp
General information on Japan Japan National Tourism Organization, London office www.seejapan.co.uk Japan Guide www.japan-guide.com
SKI & BOARD JAPAN 23
24 SKI & BOARD JAPAN