Reporting by Mariko Katsumura; Additional reporting by Tom Bateman; Editing by Chang-Ran Kim and Edwina Gibbs Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles., opens new tab Mariko is a financial journalist with more than 15 years of experience. Most recently she is a breaking news correspondent for Reuters in Tokyo, writing everything from business, social issues, political developments to human-interest pieces. She has previously covered aviation, real estate, non-bank sectors as well as fund raising deals, and won a number of in-house awards. Mariko has earned her MA in International Journalism from City, University of London. , opens new tab Browse an unrivalled portfolio of real-time and historical market data and insights from worldwide sources and experts. , opens new tabScreen for heightened risk individual and entities globally to help uncover hidden risks in business relationships and human networks. © 2025 Reuters. All rights reserved Myoko Snowsports has recently announced a new snow school at Myoko Suginohara Ski Resort While other higher profile changes apparently coming to Sugi are a relatively recent development plans for Myoko Snowsports to open an operational base there have been a long time in the making “We have been in close contact with the Suginohara Resort management team since opening Myoko Snowsports in 2009 in Akakura and have been running our Multi Resort Programs in Suginohara since then,” Tom reveals we have discussed the possibility with them of us opening a base of operations the volume of guests requesting English-speaking lessons in Suginohara has increased Due to this and expected increase in visitation to Suginohara in the coming years we are now glad to be able to have an office and team of instructors based there from this coming winter onwards.” Tom and his team are clearly conscious of where they fit into Myoko and its community Asked if Myoko Snowsports will be offering lessons in languages other than English particularly to cater for Chinese-speaking families Tom appears keen to maintain a complementary relationship with existing services available rather than a competitive one “The existing Prince Snow School Myoko Suginohara offers lessons specifically in Japanese and Chinese,” he explains with other languages available upon request and we are glad to complement the existing services of the Prince Snow School.” Myoko Snowsports has grown since its 2009 establishment but the goals of the business have always remain the same “This winter we will have around 140 Myoko Snowsports team members front desk and leadership team members across our Akakura Tom points to his desire to occupy a harmonious space in the Myoko Kogen marketplace “My Wife Nozomi and I set up Myoko Snowsports Akakura in 2009,” he begins “We had meetings beforehand with the Akakura Kanko Resort management team Since we started our primary goals have always been to a) support and respect the local Japanese community and businesses b) to help grow international and English-speaking tourism to the area c) to provide outstanding services to our guests and d) support our staff in having an amazing experience working and living in Myoko “We have deliberately not offered services or advertised in Japanese as we do not want to tread on the toes of the existing local Japanese service providers We are of course happy to welcome Japanese guests however all our services are run in English.” their expansion isn’t motivated by specific financial goalposts but insist their focus is on providing what is needed for Myoko Kogen “We’ll continue to work on our primary four goals as mentioned above Nozomi and my motivations are around supporting the community not by setting specific revenue or growth targets “I expect a continued increase in tourism to the Akakura and Suginohara areas over the coming 5-10 years and anticipate our services to grow organically with this For this winter we are offering private lessons only in Suginohara We are aiming to also offer children’s and adult group lessons in the coming years.” On the subject of what to expect in coming years with the hype around Myoko’s investment overhaul Tom’s opinion is pragmatic as might be expected from someone who has been operating business in the area a little longer than most “My opinion relates to the overall growth and investment of the whole Myoko area.” begins Tom “Across my 22-year career in the snow sports industry in Japan and Australia I have gained strong knowledge about almost all facets of ski resorts “The reality is ski resorts have very high operational costs and local independently run businesses like accommodations shops and restaurants need relatively strong visitation throughout the winter season to survive “I believe the volume of guests visiting the Myoko area 15 years ago was not enough for the mid-long term financial viability of the local resorts and businesses Total visitation to the resorts over the past 10 years has been increasing due to a combined effort of the existing community and newer businesses and investment I believe more lifts around the resorts would have already closed or would be closing soon and more local accommodations would be closing “Increased investment has and will help all local resorts and businesses to be able to operate over the coming years I hope that all new investors and businesses will consult with the local resort owners communities and Japanese government so that everyone operates with respect for the local community “The Myoko area has a long history of the Japanese and international communities working well together While spending most of the off-season in Australia Tom is also looking forward to Myoko’s all-year-round potential our 6-year-old son Luca and I continue to work in Falls Creek Nozomi and I first met there when we both got jobs there as ski instructors in 2003 “In Myoko we also have a team that run kids summer camps called “English Explorers” They are 5 days/4 nights and include fun activities life-skills and practical English language learning while exploring the local Myoko area “I hope the resorts will continue to look at additional summer activity options to help make the area even more attractive throughout the whole year,” he says “I enjoyed summer in Myoko in 2020 when covid hit The area is so beautiful and there are fun activities like mountain biking golf and lots of water sports at lake Nojiri.” with expansion to three different locations throughout Myoko (Akakura Sugi) surely also comes operational headaches But Tom cites previous experience as a helpful tool on which to call “When we opened our second base at Arai Snow Resort we underwent a number of operational challenges over the following years,” Tom recalls “Mostly involving the logistics of moving our instructor team members between our bases and catering to the flow of bookings in each resort “While I’m sure there will be some more challenges for our new base in Suginohara we have a very experienced management team and I have full confidence in our ability to work them out.” Asked “why ski Sugi?” Tom says the “the long and wide groomed runs are spectacular” and “on clear days Fuji in the distance from the top of the gondola is also very special “Beginners can enjoy the gentle runs around the bottom of the mountain before heading up the gondola Intermediates can explore a wide range of groomed runs and easier gladed areas throughout both sides of the mountain Advanced riders can find a challenge in gladed areas throughout the resort and the steeper slopes around the top chairlift.” “The resort has policies and rules regarding off-piste riding throughout the resort which can change from year to year so I encourage all riders to check when arriving to the resort for the most up-to-date policies For those happy to venture beyond the resort into the backcountry I highly recommend a local guide and appropriate safety equipment Mitahara above the resort area is a spectacular day out.” Voting is now open – your chance to support the resorts accommodation and service providers that have delivered the best experiences to their guests You’ll also have the chance to win a $150 eGift voucher from backcountry.com VOTE NOW Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" Ski Asia’s bi-monthly newsletter with the latest news 2025: Japan’s ski resorts are proving to be excellent this week and Niseko is 100% open— with more powder on the way Significant snowfall is forecast for the remainder of this week, with 20-30cm (8-12") accumulations possible every 24-hour cycle. A potential metre-plus (40”+) of fresh snowfall is likely for some centres by the start of next week when the skies currently look like they should clear. Temperatures in the freezing to -10C range. 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All rights reserved discusses his plans to transform Myoko Kogen Ken Chan discusses his plans to transform Myoko Kogen The seed for this ambitious project was planted during his tenure as head of the Japanese branch of the Government of Singapore Investment Corporation (GIC) Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund; sparked by a discussion about extending Japan’s Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kanazawa through Nagano the chairman of the company involved had highlighted the possibility of underutilised train stations along the route serving as potential gateways to developing tourist attractions in the underexplored spaces between bustling hubs.  Don’t miss: 7 stylish ski chalets in Japan to book this winter founder and CEO of Patience Capital Group (Photo: Darren Gabriel Leow) Ken Chan founder and CEO of Patience Capital Group (Photo: Darren Gabriel Leow) Drawing from that, Chan—who left GIC in 2019 to found PCG—recognised that he could seize the untapped potential of the once buzzing but now quiet Myoko Kogen area, leveraging its existing infrastructure and natural allure to transform it from a ski destination into a paradise for all seasons For Chan, who was born in Tokyo and raised there for six years the project is driven in part by a vision to meld his cultural heritage with innovative real estate solutions “The Japanese part of me (his father is Singaporean) has always wanted to see what I can do for Japan,” he reflects This initiative is bolstered by substantial financial incentives evidenced by a trend of rising Singaporean investment in Japan According to a September 2023 Knight Frank report Singapore was the largest cross‑border real estate investor in Japan as of August 2023 Despite a significant decline in the number of domestic skiers—as reported by the Japan Productivity Center a 75 per cent drop from its 1998 peak as of 2022—the weakening yen and foreign visitor boom continue to attract lucrative international investments PCG announced the reopening of its tourism investment fund which closed in October last year after procuring 35 billion yen to new investors keen to get in on the project The goal is to raise an additional 25 billion yen by the time it closes again this September Chan’s reconnaissance of the Myoko Kogen area confirmed its strategic advantages notably its exceptional accessibility via three bullet train stations and a nearby highway “Can you imagine one location in all of Japan that is served by three bullet train stations and lies within 20 to 30 minutes of a mountain’s focal point?” Chan asks during our chat at Tatler House With five mountains—the highest peaks at 2,454 metres—the locale boasts natural appeal as well with long ski runs and significant vertical drops that will entice avid skiers has a base elevation of 731 metres and a peak altitude of 1,855 metres “so you get a vertical drop of 1,124 metres,” shares Chan adding that the resort’s longest ski run “stretches about 8.5 kilometres—making it one of the three longest in Japan” Read more:Hitting the slopes: The best ski destinations in Japan Above Myoko Kogen is set to be a bustling ski destination Myoko Kogen is set to be a bustling ski destination to offer a holistic experience beyond the traditional one put forth by ski destinations The area’s appeal is bolstered by nearby attractions such as Lake Nojiri canoeing and stand‑up paddleboarding; the Myoko‑Togakushi Renzan National Park which is home to Japan’s first Unesco Global Geopark and offers not just recreational options across seasons thanks to the ancient shrines (such as the Togakushi Shrine) located on the grounds; and the Zenkoji Temple built in the 7th century and home to what is said to be Japan’s oldest Buddhist statue Its geographical location—on the border of the Niigata and Nagano Prefectures which are rich in natural resources—means that Myoko Kogen can also offer culinary appeal Niigata is renowned for its rice production which sustains a flourishing sake industry The prefecture also benefits from its position fronting the Japan Sea whose cold waters are believed to enhance the flavour and quality of its seafood “[Myoko Kogen] offers everything” “All we’re trying to do now is package everything together and market it well as a 360‑degree destination.” He aims for the development to be an all-season mountain resort with activities and amenities that appeal to a broad range of visitors from luxury seekers to the general public looking for unique vacation options PCG has already acquired about 350 hectares of land including two existing ski slopes and two ski resorts It is now in the process of acquiring more land in the hopes of building housing for employees encompassing all the things he has mentioned The complete development of the area is projected to take a decade and the first phase includes constructing at least two hotels alongside several dining venues and retail spaces more than ten hotel brands have proposed to develop resorts in Myoko hotel brands in the coming months to finalise the details,” Chan reveals anticipating the opening of the first resort by winter 2028 The fashion and gastronomy sectors have also shown interest in establishing a presence which Chan knows will only enhance the site’s appeal “Lots of restaurateurs have reached out to us from famous New York steakhouses to local Japanese sushi shops,” he says a renowned Japanese outdoor apparel retailer Above Whistler Blackcomb Whistler Blackcomb Chan and his team draw inspiration from established global ski destinations such as British Columbia’s four‑season destination Whistler along with Courchevel and even Crans‑Montana We’re a strong believer that while we invest in this whole area need to [enhance the area with good] attractions,” he says To boost entertainment and culture for visitors of varying demographics at Myoko Kogen, PCG has partnered with lifestyle and entertainment brand management company UC Global to form Patience UC Social Holdings. “UC Global owns rights to major events such as the Ultra Music Festival, so we could, for example, bring an EDM music festival over to the mountains It also owns rights to wellness festival Wanderlust which we hope to introduce here as well,” shares Chan With the aim of broadening its initiatives PCG is also working with international education group EtonHouse and Saturday Kids the former will hold summer camps at Madarao Mountain Resort—which PCG acquired in late 2022—in July and August held a ski camp in Madarao for the first time this March Acknowledging the complexities involved in creating an environment where people can live Chan shares that he and his team are always actively refining their plans to ensure the development can meet the multifaceted needs identified One of their key challenges is maintaining the distinctly Japanese character of Myoko Kogen while still attracting global visitors Chan and his team have invested significant time in engaging with local communities exchanging ideas and reassuring them of the development’s benefits We communicate and remain accessible to the locals meeting people and speaking with the local media—reporters get our full attention so that they can communicate the points correctly to their audiences,” says Chan who also points out that “it’s our duty to ensure that [our] ideas will improve things for the next generation” Chan emphasises cultural sensitivity as a cornerstone of his approach to developing Myoko Kogen especially in terms of language and services tailored to the community Recounting his experience at a restaurant in Niseko he recalls: “When we asked for the menu Even if 90 per cent of the crowd is non‑Japanese I think it’s only right that we address the [locals] first.” This experience reinforces his commitment to prioritising local needs “It’s something we’re very conscious of,” Chan says All you need to know about renting ski equipmentWhere to eat in Niseko after hitting the slopes, according to chef Willin Low This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page world-class infrastructure and large resorts with something for everyone … Why would a Canadian want to leave his homeland and venture off to work a season in Myoko Kogen Is it the cold Siberian winds or the ramen calling British Columbia — two mountain towns in Western Canada,” Riley explains “I started snowboarding during the 2018/2019 season,” he says Riley makes no secret of his fondness for the Land of the Rising Sun “I’ve been to Japan as a tourist four times,” Riley reveals “but my fifth time is on a working holiday visa I know most foreigners come here strictly for that Neither the allure of powder snow nor the food and cultural aspects of Japan are secrets that may be any longer considered well-kept One need only count the heads of inbound tourists for any confirmation of this But while a tourist comes to spend money (when not geisha chasing or taking Fuji-filled konbini photos) a working holiday visa holder comes to make money — whether or not they spend their riches on Strong Zero is a matter of personal preference With a well-developed and genuine fondness for the country and its people Riley is chasing Myoko powder snow as opposed to geisha photos how does someone who has never experienced a Japanese winter in the mountains perceive what will come to be “My image for Japanese skiing is purely about Japow,” he explains I’ve wanted to experience a season of constant dumping snow like it does in Myoko The Canadian Rockies certainly offer some amazing terrain but the snow levels can completely differ from year to year and resort to resort I’m also excited to experience so many different resorts compacted into a small area no matter where you go it’s typically just one resort.” “I’d say places like Niseko and Hakuba are well known to skiers and snowboarders in Canada but smaller places like Nozawa Onsen are being found out about as time goes on as well Almost everybody I know who has experienced a season in Japan only has good things to say It’s a way for foreigners to experience Japanese pow make a bit of money to support their travels and take in some Japanese culture if they please” Riley points towards the unique opportunities a ski town offers for those who want to stay months rather than weeks “It’s a bit of a rare situation as jobs and friends are a little bit harder to come by if you’re living anywhere else in Japan,” he says “I’ve wanted to experience a season of constant dumping snow like it does in Myoko but the snow levels can completely differ from year to year and resort to resort.” “Jobs and friends are much harder to come by when you don’t speak the language you can work without Japanese and meet Japanese people who most likely have some level of English or are happy to try to communicate with foreigners” to say the least,” Riley reveals of his own language abilities while also looking forward to a snow season where he can do some Japanese practice with the safety net of English not far away in cases of spectacular failure “That’s something (Japanese language) that I both really want and need to work on while in Myoko” “I chose Myoko Kogen as some close friends of mine had been snowboarding there and had great things to say about it having a mate who was hiring at the time helps,” Riley says of his decision to spend a season working in Myoko Kogen “I was able to visit this summer which helped prep my brain for what to expect the coming winter but my impression is that everything is a bit spread out with lots of terrain to explore “I’m really looking forward to finding my go-tos for food The overall image in my brain though is snow constantly dumping as I feel that’s what I’ve seen on social media for years regarding Myoko,” he froths I’m extremely excited to know I won’t need to spend $1000-$1700 as I did back home in Canada I haven’t looked to see the exact prices in Myoko Kogen but I’ve been told by friends that it’s only a fraction of the price I was paying back home so it seems I’ll have more money to spend on ramen” Like a lot of foreigners who come to Japan and earn a soak in an onsen at the end of a hard day’s mountain conquering due to both numerosity and the fact that many are in a style carrying a little more stigma than your regulation phrase “I’ve definitely experienced the highs and lows of how tattoos are viewed and treated in Japan I’ve had Japanese people of all ages and sizes stop me in the street to compliment them From a little girl at the train station yelling to her mum “He has a picture on his arm!” pointing at me To an old man in a capsule hotel onsen who really liked my Irezumi backpiece (*see footnote) and thanked me for being interested in Japanese culture The lows are the rotten stares I’ve gotten on the train as I’m looked up and down as if I’ve done something wrong to being asked to leave a shower room in a capsule hotel because of my tattoos even though there was nowhere else to bathe “I know onsen culture is a big thing in ski towns here in Japan so I hope I can experience more of it this winter I’ve pretty much just stopped thinking it’s even a possibility for me while I travel around Japan as so many of the country’s onsens seem off-limits to someone like me” literally “tattoo” or “inserting ink” in Japanese has in modern times come to represent a distinctive style of tattooing one often holding connotations of criminality In the interest of peeling back the layers of undue stigma perhaps the reader might like to do some DYORing as to the reasons why this is the case All the above – very snowy interesting indeed ! While the term “driving distance” is relative to how keen for pow you might be on any given day with the only exception being Charmant Hiuchi “lesser known” shall be taken to mean any resort not commonly considered part of Myoko If you aren’t familiar with Myoko, then you might want to engage in some prior reading on Myoko Kogen Ski Resorts and what they have to offer. Beyond those lie some increasingly-unhidden gems definitely worthy of a powder fiend’s perusal and a visit but bear in mind, you’ll probably want to rent a car (yes Kurohime is probably closer to Suginohara than Akakura is A slight unfortunate is that much of the good tree skiing has not been lift accessible for a while now but the positives include prime views of Nojiri and Mount Myoko less competition for fresh lines than the Myoko area’s main resorts “Kurohime is one of the best family resorts in the area,” says long-term Myokoite, Jamie Majewski many will have a crack at hiking up to relive the experience of one of the steepest runs in the area “It’s also got a dog park there if you enjoy the company of a furry pooch “And little do people know that it is actually closer to Sugi than Akakura is and Lake Nojiri for down day activities” Kurohime Kogen Snow Park is home to 11 runs Iizuna Resort is also in Nagano Prefecture and about 20km or so from Myoko Kogen It should not be confused with Iizuna Kogen Ski Area which closed permanently around the same time the word “coronavirus” entered the common vernacular Word is that Nagano City will give you that resort for free so long as you keep it open which is still open during the area’s powdery season You’re probably not going to find as much fresh pow at Iizuna as Myoko Kogen resorts or some other places on this list it could serve as a good option on a chill day of a few easy slides Passes and lunch are also very cheap and is a fair option for when the sun goes down “Iizuna has the best night skiing in the area because it’s fairly steep and has a park,” suggests Jamie The nearby Glamprook glamping resort has some upmarket accommodation in the shape of futuristic igloos 1 magic carpet for absolute beginners and 600m of vertical Many readers will already be familiar with this area The towering cedar trees leading to the upper part of Togakushi Shrine are gifts from the Instagram gods during any season the nearby Togakushi Ninja Village and museum are closed from late November to late April) What probably isn’t as well known is the ski resort just a little further down the road What makes Togakushi great is that there’ll most likely be very few people there the views are sublime on a good day and you’ll enjoy a very local experience The resort doesn’t really cater to English speakers at all which can be a huge plus when you want to get away from the world and enjoy Japan and a bit of powder on the side Beau “Reef Chief” Arnold has been snowboarding all over Japan almost every season (excluding covid years) since 2010 and rates Togakushi highly “It has great terrain for everyone at all levels,” he says no westerners and they usually have a public slalom course open for everyone last couple of times I went there they did “The cedar shrine is just down the road too,” he adds Togakushi Ski Field is not big but has 19 courses This resort is technically in Itoigawa city although not quite as far as the city proper Charmant Hiuchi is fairly close to Myoko but by the time you’ve followed the road Almost certainly 80 on the way back once you’ve made a sushi train detour in Joetsu It is a fair bit further than all of the other entries on this list but rates a mention because of one thing; snow Snow quantity and its ability to be enjoyed via a number of off-piste ungroomed courses Image: Japan National Tourism Organization Charmant Hiuchi is among the first to get smashed by those Siberian winds and sees huge snowfall There is no accommodation at the resort and it takes a bit of extra effort to reach which means it’s typically very quiet so braving an early morning pays off handsomely on a powder day It’s also quite cheap and like most of the others on this list All things considered it might be the pick of all of the resorts mentioned here “Charmant is a great little resort located near Itoigawa,” offers Himistu House’s Leif Grant who has been a ski instructor in the area for more than a decade “It offers excellent off piste terrain and is usually relatively quiet “I would highly recommend it on a 20 plus cm day Charmant suits intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders with very limited beginner terrain “After your day at Charmant there is an onsen just down the hill which is great for a bit of rejuvenation after a day on the snow,” Leif adds Charmant Hiuchi Ski Resort is home to 16 courses This is typically where the cliché “last but not least” might be dropped in while this is the last entry on this least least number of lifts and the shortest season “Kanayasan is a small ski hill near Joetsumyoko Skinkansen Station where Theodore Elden Von Lerch first trained the Japanese military to ski in 1911 Kanayasan is normally only open from mid-January to March and consists of just one single seater chair lift and four runs There is a small memorial at the base to commemorate its significance to the Japanese ski industry “It is a unique experience to see where it all started in Japan,” Leif insists “and one that few foreigners witness,” but concedes this picturesque part of Japan’s ski country will be home to a $1.4 billion mega-resort nestled in Japan’s Niigata Prefecture continues to captivate ski enthusiasts and investors alike the region offers a variety of ski resorts catering to all levels set against a backdrop of towering mountains visitors can immerse themselves in traditional onsens and experience Japan’s rich history and hospitality Myoko Kogen has emerged as a focal point for significant investment signaling a transformative phase in its development Leading this transformation is Patience Capital Group (PCG) former head of Singapore’s GIC in Japan PCG has unveiled an ambitious plan to invest approximately ¥210 billion (around $1.4 billion) over the next decade to elevate Myoko Kogen into a world-class luxury ski destination The initial phase of this project focuses on developing large-scale luxury accommodations and housing for thousands of employees PCG has already acquired about 350 hectares of land in the area and is collaborating with global hotel brands to establish a strong presence in the region The first two luxury hotels are slated to open by 2028 as Japan’s tourism sector is experiencing unprecedented growth the country welcomed a record 36.87 million foreign visitors driven by a favorable exchange rate and the resumption of international flights post-pandemic This surge in tourism has heightened demand for accommodations presenting lucrative opportunities for investors in resort real estate markets like Myoko Kogen Myoko Kogen presents a compelling opportunity The combination of substantial capital infusion and a booming tourism sector positions the area as a promising destination for high returns in property and hospitality services it offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese charm and modern luxury making it an attractive prospect for discerning investors For those interested in exploring current investment opportunities in Myoko Kogen a variety of property listings are available The ongoing infrastructure development and increasing visitor numbers underscore the region’s potential for high returns on investment in property and hospitality services it feels as if Myoko Kogen is on the cusp of a significant transformation blending its rich cultural heritage with modern luxury developments This evolution not only enhances its appeal as a premier ski destination but also solidifies its position as a lucrative investment opportunity in Japan’s burgeoning resort real estate market View all Myoko Kogen properties for sale here or check out Uchi’s top 8 picks below Feel like Myoko isn’t for you? Panic not! Uchi has over 1,000 listings from the top ski resorts across Japan – head to uchijapan.com/properties to search now Aozora Lodge – Myoko. View more images Aozora Lodge is a spacious 3-storey property featuring 14 rooms including 11 guest rooms and 3 owner’s/manager’s rooms Just a 2-3 minute drive from the Akakura Onsen and Akakura Kanko ski resorts this lodge offers a prime location for ski enthusiasts The large garden provides potential for landscaping Myoko Sunshine Golf Course Property. View more images This expansive commercial property spans nearly 3,000 sqm and is conveniently located within walking distance to the Sunshine Golf Course and amusement park A short 15-minute drive to Lotte Arai Ski Resort and 20 minutes to Myoko Kogen Ski Resort it includes a main building with 10 bedrooms The property also features a serene stream bordering the backyard and two onsen line rights SOTO Lodge – Myoko. View more images SOTO Lodge is an 8-bedroom boutique property boasting a modern design Located just a 2-minute drive from Akakura Onsen Ski Resort and 5 minutes from Akakura Kanko Ski Resort it is ideally positioned to attract seasonal visitors Akakura Forest Chalet. View more images This stunning 5-bedroom home has been completely renovated to modern standards offering the perfect blend of contemporary luxury and traditional charm the property is within walking distance to Akakura Onsen’s vibrant main street and ski lift The spacious living room features a large window that frames breathtaking seasonal views—verdant greens in the summer and a magical snow-covered forest in the winter SOTO House – Myoko. View more images SOTO House is a newly renovated 4-bedroom residence that comfortably accommodates up to 10 people Just a 2-minute drive from Akakura Onsen Ski Resort and 5 minutes from Akakura Kanko Ski Resort The property features full facilities and undercover parking Myoko Wonderland. View more images Wonderland Chalet showcases innovative architecture and inspired interior design This artist’s home features unique elements such as a secret kids’ room it offers an oasis of calm in the center of Myoko Kogen Akakura Main Street Commercial Property. View more images This three-storey commercial building is located in the heart of Akakura’s main street The first floor is currently leased to a convenience store while the upper two floors offer flexibility for accommodation providing ample space for various configurations Central Akakura Site. View more images This 333 sqm site is located in Akakura’s main commercial and F&B area just a few minutes’ walk from the Akakura Onsen resort lifts It offers stunning views of the Myoko valley across to Madarao and is an ideal location for building a chalet in the fast-growing Myoko market Head to uchijapan.com/properties to search all the top ski resort real estate across Japan ZIRO- A Myoko edition of Ziro Bird Walk (ZBW) was organized at Pige Aji a water conservation site which is home to several water migratory birds in the early morning here yesterday The timing of the event was aligned with Myoko festival the traditional spring festival of Ziro Valley thereby adding cultural significance and making the event a unique blend of tradition and environmental awareness Highlighting the significance of the event renowned Apatani environmentalist and President Arunachal Pradesh Birding Club Koj Mama informed that the first Myoko edition of Ziro Bird Walk was launched in March 2024 where maximum number of migratory water birds migrated to the valley in March and April Also Read- Cultural Guide Training for Siang Region Begins in Aalo The second Myoko edition of ZBW was a great success with an impressive turnout which was jointly organized by Arunachal Pradesh Birding Club a pioneer club in bird conservation of Arunachal Pradesh a pioneer NGO in sustainable development of Ziro Valley a village-based conservation club with a motive in giving back to society 28 different species of birds including Bar-headed Goose Gray-headed Lapwing were sighted at the valley Also Read- Dasanglu Pul Inspects Development Projects in Anjaw Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δdocument.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()) Connecting decision makers to a dynamic network of information, people and ideas, Bloomberg quickly and accurately delivers business and financial information, news and insight around the world 2023 at 2:47 AM EDTBookmarkSaveAbout 150 miles northwest of Tokyo in a slivered valley that leads to the Sea of Japan lies a sleepy pocket of the nation’s ski country called Myoko Kogen Bustling in the 1980s bubble era with young skiers and neon-lit streets Thomson Reuters Reports mainly on pharma, retail and breaking news in Japan. Previously worked at U.S. Department of State and Bloomberg News before that. New College of Florida and University of Hawaii alum. Former Poynter and JAIMS fellow. 17 Mar: The Myoko edition of the Ziro Bird Walk (ZBW) was organised at traditional farmland Pige Aji and at Siikhe Lake a water conservation site which is home to several water migratory birds the traditional spring festival of Ziro valley renowned Apatani environmentalist and Arunachal Pradesh Birding Club president Koj Mama informed that the first Myoko edition of the ZBW was launched in March 2024 during which maximum number of migratory water birds migrated to the valley jointly organised by the Arunachal Pradesh Birding Club was a great success with an impressive turnout 28 different species of birds,including the bar-headed goose and the grey-headed lapwing were sighted in the valley including NGO Helping Hands president Robin Hibu besides youthsfrom villages of Ziro valley and tourists from Bangalore participated in the walk showcasing a strong community bond and spirit of environmental conservation Myoko resident Mark Ryan is the owner of Thunderbird Guides a backcountry cat skiing operation in one of the snowiest regions in Japan He first arrived at the resort in the midst of Japan’s skiing boom studying snow science at the Ministry of Japanese Science and Education back when Myoko was home to “proper sushi counters and dark discotheques” make for a fascinating read; Mark has ridden with industry legends like the late Jake Burton and “Godfather of Freeriding” Craig Kelly and his resume tells the unconventional story of a globe-trotting and highly educated “ski bum” (self-described) Ski Asia sat down with Mark to hear his story and to find out more about the area in which he plans to open a new cat skiing product this season five out of six family members had their ski instructor certification and taught at 3,000 feet I left traditional education and with $700 in my pocket drove 1,384km in a beater Datsun 2×4 pick-up truck to work in the snow like so many lemmings running off a cliff One morning I got a chance to go on “avy” bombing run at “the Bird” (Snowbird With a backpack full of stinky nitro-glycerine charges and a set of hand-pull detonators it’s the most fun you can have without joining the Marines “Clear!” “Boom!” If the avy-prone slope released and whatever didn’t slide was my next set of face shots Mountain resort employment lead to shoulder seasons with free time I alpine toured the Haute-Route at age 20 in terrible conditions I narrowly escaped live burial by slogging uphill in a windy deep powder hell to a closed teleferique station called the Jungfrau just before dusk but so much for an accurate weather assessment I chased around avalanche study – initially for recreational purposes – in the Pacific Northwest of America where Craig Kelly was leaving his tracks all over the record books but I then also started studying in Japan and later got to heli-guide in New Zealand and Alaska I was invited to events like the King of the Hill (Valdez where I met Australian photography legend Harro That guy busts ass getting his vantage point I sat avalanche Level One right around when a friend invested in a heli-skiing operation in Washington State I got my foot in the front door and still poach the back door when there is an empty seat I had kept in touch with a seasonal long-stay Utah powder junkie from New Zealand and he hooked me a gig at Southern Lakes Heli which led only to more heli and heliskiing in Japan before it almost became extinct we took Craig out heli-riding for a few days but for him it was second nature and just another day in the office Yet another day in Vermont I went riding with Jake Burton He spoke informally yet eloquently about product and rider development and I remember being wide-eyed and feeling like such a puppy Jake Burton might have been characterized as an innovator I’ve found I score more points with the family or girlfriend and in life if you strive to avoid injury and liability from accidents and by staying out of the ditch when driving your people to the resort on black ice in a blizzard to catch first chair it is the real old-fashioned human relationships plus your work ethic that is gonna score you your dream job not a bunch of “likes” on a social media platform A local founding father for off-piste guiding had previously employed my neighbours from Alaska to work in Myoko Kogen as part of a sister city deal I scored a scholarship to enter a Master’s program at nearby Shinshu (Nagano Prefecture) to study snow ice and snow at the Ministry of Japanese Science and Education The scholarship still exists in the cultural pages of the Embassy of Japan’s website I was given a “gold pass” to all of Myoko Kogen from this “Myoko father of skiing” The same old boy had the historic lodge at 2,000m behind Myoko I had to be the ski school employee and token Gaijin [foreigner] School trip group ski lessons weren’t just a matter of handling 400 kids at a time it was handling three groups of 400 kids at the same time and all who were told to wear goggles even when sunny It was so hard to tell which kid I had lost during a ski lesson Hopefully I got through to some of them and communicated my passion for the sport dark discotheques and legal yet clandestine ladies bars all came and went The Japanese ski industry flame burned right out and many lifts and gondolas badly need an upgrade or removal but Snowmageddon [last season’s huge snowfalls] were pretty much standard back then The snow police have become better at catching off-trail riders The local ‘Don’ on gave me this snow cat for a thousand bucks The common name of an endangered species here is written with the kanji characters for “thunder” (雷) and bird (鳥) so that’s what I call my guide company: Thunderbird That bird is my nemesis because its protection effectively prevents helicopter and cat use in the high country Perhaps the mechanized skier is the endangered species have the keys to aforementioned lodge at 2000 meters I can tell you that it is humbling to burrow five meters straight down only to find the top of the front door of the hut customers did not want to sleep outside in the snow either and lent a hand with the full burial search (for the front door) Guiding works best when the group members have common goals old guys and through operation of overnight backcountry tours with newer Japanese guides – some whom I met in Alaska or New Zealand – I got a pretty good grasp on availability of suitable terrain here on Honshu where terrain can get pretty sick pretty quick so when the water heads back towards the ocean in liquid form it carves out deep ravines and gullies The recent Covid situation has been a time to rethink and reset and I got to work my oversnow equipment (cats and sleds) on environmental and infrastructure jobs in support of renewable power projects During the same period I was able to ink new cat ski land use deal location (TBA) try it without a full time native Japanese language speaker or partner on staff Or bite the bullet and hit the books for a couple of years learn as much as you can about customary business practices After about two and a half years of language and culture immersion programs and practicing inadequate Japanese on unsuspecting ski and water ski club buddies I eventually started having dreams in Japanese It took forever to understand that “what you propose shall be difficult” is really the polite version of saying “when hell freezes over if you want to anything other than to make a turd Reminds me of a conformist Japanese colloquialism which says: “the nail that pops up gets hammered back in its place.” Don’t be a nail water or airspace use permission are more like a Mexican standoff than a chat Someone other than you likely has a corner on whatever you are trying to do providing legal cat-access to the deep backcountry is challenging your cat ride might end at the bottom end of your next hike You’ll hike a lot past powder to get to a lot of powder The local resorts’ average in-bounds difficulty rating is intermediate at best the location of our beta-tested cat skiing product is between Akakura and Madarao and tops out at around 42-degrees You’ll need all of that some days to keep on top of the deepness Repeat cat-accessed runs occur primarily on one wide slope at your pace Panorama Cat Ski Tour is a tidy morning session but it ain’t the Canadian Rockies We hope to guide you and your three to five of your favourite people for minimum five private We include a ticket to Akakura hot springs and a night skiing pass It’s our shout to round out your day – both are same-day only and non-transferable Panorama is by no means a huge place so we only take a couple of groups per week and try to be flexible so as to be able to provide freshies around natural powder resets and you look better if you’re riding untracked We also sometimes help with inbound travel arrangements or bulk ski tickets purchase but prefer to stick to the operations side of the coin because it’s way more fun A snowmobile-safari tour is also in the works at Thunderbird This activity has also been developed around our Panorama location When your guide says’ “don’t get sucked in by the wicked view of the “Kubiki Massif and ride over the edge” The Ministry of Tourism has now twice supported the development of Thunderbird cat-supported introductory backcountry ski/ride experiences and snowmobile tour products at Panorama To find out more about cat skiing or snowboarding in Myoko, Japan or to get in touch with Mark, visit the Thunderbird Guides website 2023Frightening video captured the moment a boar came out of the woods and charged at some snowboarders.Frightening video captured the moment a boar came out of the woods and charged at some snowboarders Footage showed as an unsuspecting snowboarder was attacked from behind by the boar that came charging toward him who was able to use the board for some protection Staff at the nearby snowboarding shop originally posted the video They at first didn't believe their customer who told them a wild boar ran into them and broke their snowboard binding Please upgrade to a more modern version to fully experience JapanToday site and for security reasons Lying in the shadow of Niigata Prefecture’s Mount Myoko Imori Pond is a scenic getaway fit for solo travelers and families alike you’ll have plenty to enjoy as you circle the pond the nature reserve that Imori Pond sits in was once private property until a few years ago an artist who often frequented the area looking for inspiration told the owner that the pond’s beauty was unmatched and efforts should be made to preserve it Imori Pond is situated in the Myoko-Kogen Onsen Town which attracts visitors looking to relax in a hot spring or hit the slopes in the winter months Imori Pond has a circumference measuring approximately 500 meters and takes about 15-20 minutes to complete a lap Surrounding the pond are wetland flora and white birch trees Designated one of the 100 Mountains of Japan Mount Myoko towers in the distance and stands over 2,400 meters high you can see the mountain perfectly reflected on the surface of the pond Click here to read more Use your Facebook account to login or register with JapanToday you will also receive an email inviting you to receive our news alerts Join the leading Asian tourist attraction to assist our diverse range of customers A mix of what's trending on our other sites Your browser does not support JavaScript, or it is disabled．Please check the site policy for more information Niigata Prefecture--This mountain city is known as the training site for Aoyama Gakuin University a powerhouse in the annual New Year’s Hakone Ekiden long-distance relay road race which faces the border with Nagano Prefecture mixed feelings about the future are running through the minds of residents The city has been seeing its population age and decline rumors spread that large land plots in the Suginosawa district were being bought up the 51-year-old head of the Suginosawa Tourist Office said he remembers how people speculated about whether certain homes or land plots had been sold including part of the Myoko-Togakushi Renzan National Park to a company affiliated with Patience Capital Group Pte Ltd. a real estate investment fund based in Singapore and Tokyo PCG then acquired the Madarao Mountain Resort a ski area straddling the cities of Myoko and Iiyama it was learned that PCG had bought the Myoko Suginohara ski resort in the Suginosawa district from Seibu Holdings Inc Yamakawa said he has both hopes and concerns about PCG’s acquisitions and what it plans to do “I would love to see more visitors from abroad and more tourists here but I am also concerned our local community could be left behind if the focus is on attracting wealthy people,” he said About 30 accommodation facilities are currently members of the Suginosawa Tourist Office and many tourism-related businesses are suffering from a lack of successors provided a glimpse of his development plan in an online interview in Singapore last December he previously headed the Japan branch of GIC Pte Ltd. “I hope to develop a world-class high-end ski resort that will be the only presence of its kind,” he said Chan began buying land plots for his plan in 2020 and has now purchased between 300 and 350 hectares He said he plans to build a resort hotel in Myoko Kogen by the end of 2027 along with a downtown area lined with luxury brand outlets and restaurants Chan has already procured about 35 billion yen ($240 million) for that purpose through a real estate fund with his long-term investment expected to be worth more than 200 billion yen He said his ideal ski resort is Canada’s Whistler “It provides clues on how to lure customers not just in winter but also in summer,” Chan said “The Myoko and Madarao areas offer convenient access being located about a two-and-a-half hours’ ride on Shinkansen and car from Tokyo I am hoping to create an all-season mountain resort there.” PCG is not the only foreign capital company investing in Japanese ski resorts including the Naeba resort in Niigata Prefecture “The ski industry continues to grow in Western countries contrary to what’s happening in Japan,” Chan said “There is potential for development in Japan as well.” He was asked about public sentiment in Myoko “I know there are concerns about land plots in Japan being bought by foreign capital,” Chan said that we have no way to take those land plots back to Singapore I just hope what we are doing will help revitalize communities even though I won’t say we will be taking the lead in doing so.” which boasts a maximum trail length of 8.5 kilometers The resort was previously packed with skiers an 84-year-old who has long operated a variety shop in the Suginosawa district and seen the changes in the community said he also has mixed feelings about the development “I just don’t know if it is safe to place rosy hopes again on what we would call a second fleet of ‘Black Ships,’” he said Commodore Matthew Perry’s fleet that pressured Japan to open to the rest of the world in the mid-19th century Deadly risks lie beneath beauty of backcountry skiing areas Opening of Osaka casino resort delayed one year to 2030 China skis: Olympics brings on boom in winter sports Major ski resort taking shape in Fukushima in time for winter Information on the latest cherry blossom conditions Please right click to use your browser’s translation function.) A series based on diplomatic documents declassified by Japan’s Foreign Ministry Here is a collection of first-hand accounts by “hibakusha” atomic bomb survivors chefs and others involved in the field of food introduce their special recipes intertwined with their paths in life A series about Japanese-Americans and their memories of World War II In-house News and Messages No reproduction or republication without written permission Snow and Mountain Lifestyle news and entertainment 2023 While North America’s ski industry is thriving Japanese skier visits have drastically decreased over the past couple of decades one person is trying to change the fortunes of one powder-filled ski region Nikkei Asia reports that real estate mogul Ken Chan plans to spend $1.36 billion to redevelop Myoko. The core portion of this plan is to build a village at the base of Mt. Myoko. Ken Chan is doing this through his sovereign wealth fund: Patience Capital Group (PCG) The first phase will include the construction of residential homes and a commercial zone at the base of Myoko Suginohara ski resort (pictured below) His goal is to create a ski village similar to Whistler Myoko features numerous ski resorts and is less than a two-and-a-half-hour bullet train trip to Tokyo making it easier to reach than other Japanese ski destinations like Niseko and Hokkaido The Patience Capital Group already owns over 350 hectares (over 865 acres) of land in the area. This includes the Madarao Kogen and Myoko Suginohara ski resorts. An affiliated company has acquired Lime Resort Myoko which operates lodging properties in the area The goal is to invest 70-80 million yen by 2027, and the whole $1.36 billion within the next decade. According to the Japan Times they hope to have the international hotels and worker housing ready to go in 2026 Image/Video Credits: Myoko Tourism Get the latest snow and mountain lifestyle news and entertainment delivered to your inbox. ian@unofficialnetworks.com Born and raised in New Hampshire, Ian Wood became passionate about the ski industry while learning to ski at Mt. Sunapee. In high school, he became a ski patroller at Proctor Ski Area. He travelled out... The sparkling-white Myoko Highlands of Japan richly deserve the same worldwide acclaim that the snowshoeing meccas of Banff Myoko will host the 16th All Japan Mountain Snowshoeing Race is not only for competitive racers and experienced climbers of winter peaks: for those snowshoers who like to pause to suck on icicles or watch wildlife there are plenty of move-at-your-own-pace snowshoe experiences to be enjoyed Myoko’s volcanic environment is the source of five types of hot spring water Exactly what is Myoko as well as a 2,454 meter-high (8,051 feet) mountain that the Japanese government lists as one of Japan’s 10 most beautiful mountains The Myoko Highlands are part of Niigata Prefecture The 1998 Winter Olympics were held just a short drive away in Nagano and the accommodations in both prefectures are exceptional but the natural conditions are just as fantastic During one of the most satisfying weekends of my snowshoeing life and pigged out on excessively delicious Japanese food my wife and I were snowshoeing on a knoll above the minuscule village of Tsubame (燕) The village of approximately twenty buildings is perched on a steep cliff at an elevation of 1,190 meters (3,904 feet) We had paused to watch the movements of a river cascading over and slicing between home-sized boulders just below us The river was in a steep valley between two mountains but the other was a picturesque towering peak We suddenly heard an echoing “whumph,” which morphed into the roar of a large jet combined with the sounds of massive rocks crushing together Our heads jerked upwards and we saw on the other mountain that a field of snow was sliding and swirling between clumps of trees with the speed of a professional skier empowered with the force of thousands of monster tractors but anyone underneath that torrent of snow would have been crushed or suffocated The avalanche was a reminder of the unpredictable deadly forces that are usually dormant within those beautiful mountains I managed to take a few photographs that remind me when I look at them of the awesome we continued trekking and relishing mountain vistas We had gone to Tsubame to snowshoe and to soak in its fabled outdoor springs that are free for any visitor willing to hike to them Tsubame Onsen is famous among the Japanese hot spring cognoscenti who seek outdoor hot springs in forests we had arrived just half an hour after the hot springs were closed for winter They are closed because of the danger caused by excessive snow Our hardworking muscles deserved a hot spring after the walk in the snow So we followed the recommendation of an elderly man shoveling snow (we only met senior citizens living in the village) like many old hotels in the Japanese mountains was furnished like a museum of local culture you can see stuffed ferrets and other animals irori （an open hearth used for cooking and heating) and other objects representative of past eras The kindly proprietor requested that I wait a short while for an earlier group of visitors to finish bathing and she offered free cups of aromatic tea made from roasted green tea leaves I strolled through the old ryokan (Japanese inn) and savored the decor When I went into the bathing area I found two baths: a hot and steamy indoor bath and a rustic outdoor one surrounded by snow banks The small outdoor bath close to the edge of the mountain had a view of blue sky and a white mountain across a deep valley and the water was thick with natural mineral substances Hot running water poured from a bamboo tube onto my back My senses were stimulated while my body relaxed it was another great foray into a new Japanese hot spring and more exposure to Japanese culture within a remote village I may stay at that hotel or in that village the hotel that became our base for that weekend Resting on the edge of forests within the Ikenotaira Onsen Ski Resort area of Mt plenty of snowshoeing opportunities are just out the front door Snowshoeing trails circle the nearby Myoko Kogen Visitor Center which has educational displays of the local ecology I learned that Myoko is the home of two species of nocturnal flying squirrels and that night snowshoeing tours of the area around the nature center are available and we could not fit a night tour into that trip One is scheduled for my next visit to Myoko The evening before going to the visitor center we had arrived at the Alpenblick Hotel after the neighboring ski resort had closed which was perfect timing to snowshoe on the empty grounds We walked through the woods next to the groomed runs Soft snowflakes had been falling continuously all day The sky cleared and brilliant stars blinked at us through heavily laden tree branches owls hooted while my wife making a snow angel we went back to the hotel for a hot spring before dinner provided for guests and walked through a hallway to the outside hot spring Walking in the unheated hallway with just a thin robe was like jumping through the ice on a frozen lake Air from my breath and steam swirled off the surface of the bath into the air like a dancing miasma we headed to the restaurant to gluttonously ravage steamed crab and other dishes were included in the dinner buffet German-style dark beer is brewed and served on the premises I rose early to catch the sunrise from the hot spring One other person was already in the bath looking at the morning view The sunlight and steam silhouetted his body The hot water was drawing up many dark minerals as it flowed out of the earth The spring is unfiltered and unsullied with chlorine we walked on snowshoes to a waterfall that I had been inspired to visit because of gorgeous photographs is 55 meters (around 60 yards) high and is listed as one of Japan’s best waterfalls by the government The Japanese government has various lists of the most 100 attractive natural features of the country Mountain roads leading to the walking trail to the waterfall were unplowed Walking between strands of tall snow-frosted cedars we reached the end of the road and found the hiking path I smelled sulfur in the cold mountain air and soon discovered a small channel of hot spring water flowing from a hole in the ground We followed the trail past a small dam and along the side of a river The waterfall appeared tiny from a distance in the middle of a valley where all of the trees were tufted with white clouds of snow A small suspension bridge heavy with snow was below the waterfall we could sense the power of the water flowing over its top My wife wanted to get high enough to look down upon the waterfall so we climbed a slope to the left of the waterfall We repeatedly slipped backwards in the soft slippery snow but finally reached our goal; the view was spectacular It was first time to be so close to a waterfall in such cold temperatures That trip to the waterfall and all our other experiences in Myoko are still frozen in my memory And there are so many more winter adventures remaining for us to experience on our next trips to Myoko Greg Goodmacher loves water when it falls as snow He enjoys his life in Japan and aims to share his joy through his writing His full-time position is university professor at Keiwa College in Shibata This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed. Can you recommend a fine touring company for snowshoeing in Japan My fantasy is to x-c ski from ryokan to ryokan … you are getting the result I expected Copyright © 2025. Powered by WordPress We love asking ski resort locals how they’d spend a perfect day at their home resort, because it’s often the fastest way to get to know a new ski destination. Escape Myoko owners Neil Denize and Tayler Paulsen’s answers on Myoko will resonate with many of our readers because it’s clear they enjoy the resort for many of the same reasons tourists fly from all corners of the earth to get there Escpae Myoko owners Neil (top) and Tayler (bottom) The catalyst for Neil’s obsession with snow was a visit to Mt which saw him pack up his bags shortly after to chase winters in North America where he first discovered the country’s incredible snowfall after many winter seasons split between Japan he and newly-married Tayler took a reconnaissance trip to Japan where they ended up purchasing the now-named Mountain Hut Myoko “We were immediately drawn to the area’s proximity to excellent resorts and the surprisingly affordable property market” “Our first season at Mountain Hut in 2018 was a significant learning experience as we were new to operating a small business in a foreign country with limited Japanese language skills and we were fortunate that COVID-19 didn’t become a major concern until March around the time when things usually start to wind down for the season.” Hoping that the pandemic would “blow over in a couple of months” the couple purchased SUGI Chalet in June 2020 however a Covid-enforced absence from Japan as well as two years of record snowfalls led to significant damage to their properties Neil credits strong local connections and friends to their recovery and after a successful return to business last season the pair are getting ready to launch Two Pines They have also recently begun offering backcountry guiding services ski/snowboard instruction and women’s camps to their growing list of services as a business You’d be forgiven for thinking there wouldn’t be any time left to enjoy the Myoko’s famous conditions however the photos below of Neil and Tayler ripping through powder in the backcountry suggest otherwise and Neil lists “having the opportunity to snowboard nearly every day during the season and enjoy the company of our fantastic crew” as a significant perk of the job “[It’s been] the chance to be present for our 2.5-year-old son and share this unique mountain lifestyle with him as he grows up – a source of great pride and happiness.” “It’s important to note that running a business in a small rural mountain town isn’t without its unique set of challenges and sacrifices Nevertheless and we feel incredibly fortunate to live in the mountains blending our passion with our livelihood.” Neil takes us through his idea of a “perfect day” in Myoko Our go-to winter breakfast is a Mountain Hut Lodge specialty consisting of scrambled eggs with a healthy dose of sesame dressing and Kewpie mayo It gives you all the energy you need for a huge powder-packed morning up the hill Mornings at Mountain Hut Lodge I typically head out the door around 8:00 am heading straight for Suginohara ski resort I grab a coffee from Sugi Base and then hop on the gondola for a few fun laps to warm up my legs before the top chair opens at 9:30 depending on the amount of snow received the night before I like to get a few laps on the piste while the conditions are good I start venturing off into the trees on the skier’s left off the top chair and make my way over to the ridge line I might be tempted to hike above the top chair and drop into the crater of Myoko I should note that I would only recommend this to people with avalanche gear and experience in the backcountry or those accompanied by local guides which is only a 10-minute stroll up the hill from Mountain Hut Lodge It’s ideal for beginners and families and it’s perfect for people wanting to experience tree riding for the first time The trees at Ikenotaira aren’t too tight Later in the season they usually have a fun terrain park with plenty of features suitable for all skill levels I don’t usually opt for a big lunch when I’m riding it’s hard to resist a burger at Sugi Base or a baked apple at the Yellow restaurant at the bottom of the park chair a coffee and cake set on the terrace with a view over Lake Nojiri on a clear day is pretty special I would typically continue riding for a couple more hours in the afternoon This might involve venturing off into the trees or having a session on the jib features The Sugi park crew does a fantastic job with their park I might ride back to the lodge and have a session in our mini backyard park whether it’s outside on the snow or with cheers from onlookers inside the lodge “I might ride back to the lodge and have a session in our mini backyard park which we work on throughout the season.” There are so many good onsen options in the area If you’re ever in Myoko during the green season It’s an outdoor onsen in a natural setting Alpen Blick Resort and Spa in Ikenotaira has a great onsen It’s a fantastic spot to enjoy an onsen and then grab dinner afterwards or vice versa I’m happy to settle for a long soak in our Ofuro baths at the lodge While they may not be ‘onsen,’ they are always full “…hands down the best Japanese food you’ll ever eat.” is hands down the best Japanese food you’ll ever eat And they don’t just serve ramen; their menu is extensive But if you’re in the mood for something more Western our new pizza spot in Suginosawa village is set to become a favourite It combines delicious pizza with a relaxed atmosphere making it perfect for capping off a day on the slopes with a cold beer and good tunes Although Myoko is not widely known for its nightlife it does offer cosy spots for evening après Akakura village is the place you want to do some bar hoping We would usually start off at Full Circle for a great selection of cocktails and also bar snacks followed by Skate Bar where you can have a crack at their indoor mini ramp followed by Popcorn if you are in for a big one If you’re after your own luxury ski-in/ski-out chalet all to yourself, then SUGI Chalet is the perfect place for a group of mates or families and can sleep up to 16 Sugi Chalet, Myoko. View more images I have extensive knowledge in the ski resorts in Japan Today's print edition Home Delivery the first rung is a median house price of 937,000 Australian dollars (about ¥91 million) for a house in a capital city Yet in places like Myoko Kogen, Niigata Prefecture, Escape Myoko owners Tayler Paulsen managed to purchase a fully-equipped lodge for only AU$110,000 (about ¥10 million).googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1499653692894-0'); }); Myoko Kogen is a sleepy valley in Japan’s central snow country with hundreds of abandoned houses scattered amongst the region’s pine forests but its famous powder snow continues to entice many overseas travelers each winter season With backgrounds in hospitality and adventure tourism and the couple had later spent two seasons in Niseko In a time of both misinformation and too much information quality journalism is more crucial than ever.By subscribing Your subscription plan doesn't allow commenting. To learn more see our FAQ Sponsored contents planned and edited by JT Media Enterprise Division It is probably not a surprise to hear a lifelong Myoko resident say things have changed over the years Having recently celebrated his forty-seventh orbit of the sun Moriyuki-san reckons the first foreigners to catch wind of Myoko’s treasures began appearing a few decades ago “There were almost no foreigners in Myoko twenty years ago,” he recalls His observations contrast those of the habits of the Japanese ski crowd Moriyuki-san talks of the “bubble” of the late 1980s and early 1990s and how it affected the mountain and economy of Myoko there were too many people coming to Myoko Now it has resulted in lots of empty lodges,” he asserts with not enough space to accommodate everyone who wanted to come People would pay to sleep in the bathroom of lodges because there’d be nowhere else to stay Some lodge owners had rooms that weren’t necessarily built according to regulations That’s why foreigners might buy an old lodge to renovate these days and find a secret room” Cut to the present day and things have changed quite drastically where the domestic ski industry is concerned “The (Japanese) people who come to ski now are only the ones who really love skiing or the people who can still afford it There are far fewer students and families coming to Myoko now” It’s the students that are of most concern to this passionate local Training stars of note such as Beijing Olympian Moriyuki-san began Myoko Regional Sports Club to encourage the current and next generations of skiers he says that now kids have a lot of other distractions He clearly believes in a connection to snow skiing and Myoko that children may miss if they see brighter lights in other pursuits he wanted to provide a place in Myoko where local up-and-coming skiers could train all year round “There is nowhere else that they can train locally,” he says “They can train at Myoko Regional Sports Club the whole year” the club organises access to the very last bit of snow well into May they’ll travel to different parts of Japan such as Gassan in Yamagata Prefecture a small resort that is only open from late April to early July Returning from a late August and early September trip to Australia Moriyuki-san compares the pros and cons of the two places quite succinctly “There is a little bit more to do at night after skiing in Australia but Myoko has a lot more snow,” he affirms He also insists that the same may be said of most places to varying degrees having skied almost everywhere there is to ski on planet Earth If forced to live anywhere in the world outside of Japan he chooses the alps of Italy Switzerland or Austria but says that no matter where he goes there’s no place like home in terms of sheer amounts of snow Interesting then is the contention that there was more snow when he was younger Myoko is often referred to as ““one of the snowiest places on Earth” Moriyuki-san started skiing as a three-year-old it seemed like there was a metre of snowfall every day during January,” he recalls “The 2021/22 season was about two-thirds of what we used to get and a typical season these days is about half” It should be pointed out that there have been a few other Myokoites who claim the 2021/22 season to be the most snow they’ve ever seen But whether winters past are being romanticised or not Moriyuki-san points to the off-season as a firmer example of climate change “We never needed air-conditioners when I was younger A couple of degrees might only seem like a little it seemed like there was a metre of snowfall every day during January” Moriyuki-san recalls being a boy and having little to do but ski the snow clearers weren’t as good as they are now There were a lot of days when they couldn’t come because there was too much snow it happened so regularly that people only had to pay their car tax for half the year because there was no point in having a car during the other half a bloke gets to know a mountain pretty well The forty-seven-year-old has a few favourite spots citing the tree run at the top of Akakura Kanko as great bang-for-buck when stacking fun next to ease of lift access Moriyuki-san is also a big fan of Lotte Arai in general and reckons it’s the most similar terrain to European resorts that Myoko has to offer Suginohara and Akakura Kanko both have great access to side and backcountry noting that foreigners who come to visit are far more interested in venturing off-piste than Japanese people seem to be he offers the observation that it’s among foreigners that Myoko’s reputation continues to grow I think foreigners know more about Myoko than Japanese people do Myoko still feels more local than other areas with growing foreign investment “I think Myoko is now becoming more popular because we get so much snow” At the new Myoko Kogen Visitor Centre near Imori Pond information on yearly snowfall elaborates on Moriyuki-san’s understated point informing that Myoko is “one of the snowiest places on Earth” receiving an average of 14 metres per winter (much more during season 21/22) Ahead of another predicted La Niña 22/23 season Up to 50% off 2024 & past season styles at evo.com! Renew a Subscription | Change My Address offered one suggestion: “Go to the Japanese Alps.” Before his recommendation my plans revolved around powder chasing on Hokkaido and my knowledge of the mountains on Japan’s main island was limited to the 1998 Nagano Olympics I quickly started looking into the 60-mile-long mountain range The Japanese Alps are comprised of three ranges: the northern Hida which came to be just 2.5 million years ago when oceanic plates collided under Japan thrusting the 60 miles of peaks up to almost 10,000 feet volcanic calderas and glaciers filled in the landscape With the unique mix of Cascade-like craters and Alaska-like spines it’s no wonder that the Freeride World Tour uses Hakuba’s Happo Ono resort for one of the four-star qualifier events and a junior tour stop PowderQuest Lead Guide and owner of Crystalline Backcountry Mo Rasiah says he likes doing three things: eating After spending a week following him around I can also attest that he does all three quite quickly the Japanese Alps are a paradise for Rasiah “Hokkaido may have the advantage over the Japanese Alps in terms of consistency But when the stars align and when it’s on in the Northern Alps it’s hard to beat that combination of world class terrain combined with the Japanese snow machine,” explains Rasiah you gotta just come find out.” Over seven days of touring we hit powder stashes around Myoko where I was amazed by the scope of the terrain we were chasing snow through perfectly spaced birch trees and the next we were peering over the rim of a volcanic crater worked with Rasiah to sniff out the softest deepest and least tracked areas during the day giving us a few glances of sunshine on rimed trees dumping fresh snow to fill in yesterday’s tracks We worked this cycle for four days before picking up and moving to Hakuba for second half of our trip but cold air from the Sea of Japan kept the snow soft We explored canyons off the sides of two of the 10 local resorts The peaks around Hakuba are more spine-like and we danced down treed fingers and around alpine bowls pointed out the lines that Jeremy Jones and Travis Rice each respectively rode when they travelled to Hakuba to film segments he shared his own impressive snowboard mountaineering lines with us There were crowds on the boot packs and skintracks out of the resorts but the terrain is so massive that we didn’t see a single other group until our lines converged with the standard outtrack just below a dam As I made the 10-minute walk from the train station to our hotel The sidewalks were cleared but flowing with a small river; water from underground hot springs is piped to the surface and into a sprinkler system to melt the snow Our hotel catered to Japanese businesspeople There were tatami mats instead of beds and green tea instead of coffee Fish and rice were served with pickled vegetables for breakfast Australian and American visitors roam the streets frequenting English-language-friendly bars we drank lattes from an espresso machine and enjoyed a breakfast buffet with cereal eggs and bacon and looked out at the ski jumps from the 1998 Nagano games Many of the buildings around town were built in the ’90s in anticipation of the Olympics The architecture of Iiyama and Myoko felt old like the buildings had been there for centuries but Hakuba has a unique and more recent feel The outsides of buildings are Swiss chalet-inspired The interiors are straight out of a ’90s sitcom: geometric designs unexpected pops of color and sliding glass doors We battled wind up high and skated through rain on our outtrack skiing powder for six out of seven days is a win conditions don’t always line up in the Japanese Alps ate delicious food and avoided crowds with the help of our guides Hokkaido was in lock down under a wind event As I scrolled through the social media feeds of my friends stuck inside on the north island I was reminded that every ski trip is a roll of the dice Places that advertise 300 days of sunshine still get rain and the powder capital of the world doesn’t guarantee untracked laps But if you want to ski a unique mix of volcanic and glacially formed terrain consider placing a bet on the Japanese Alps Thanks Backcountry Mag for trusting PowderQuest to put this adventure together for Betsy and Iz Hopefully we can do it again in the near future DOUG STOUP: THE ICEMANFrom playing NCAA soccer to a successful modeling and acting career to being the top polar explorer of his time, Doug Stoup is an enigma. Host Adam Howard recently journeyed to Antarctica with Stoup and their conversation ranges from Doug’s personal training of A-list Hollywood actors to near death experiences; adventures with Doug Coombs; and taking novice skiers to the South Pole. Listen Now » resorts with a little about each individual policy—where and when skinning is allowed whether or not it’s free during operating hours and the link directly to the resort’s guidelines View our resort skinning policies guide » Though we send brand invites for our annual Gear Test Week in February and have finalized submissions weeks … [Read More...] What kind of ski resorts are there at Myoko Kogen Myoko Suginohara Ski Resort: Wide and long slopes safe for beginners measures against coronavirus are being implemented (installing separatory panels There are also challenging courses like the super-giant course with a maximum slope of 38 degrees so even advanced skiers won't be bored Rental You can rent equipment and clothing so no need to worry about bringing your own Myoko Suginohara Ski Resort 妙高杉ノ原スキー場 Address: Suginosawa 949-2113 Nearest Station: Kurohime Station （Shinano Railway Kita-Shinano Line） Phone Number: 0255-86-6211 Ikenoitara Onsen Ski Resort: Beginners and Experts Alike Can Enjoy Two Ski Areas Ikenotaira Ski Resort 池の平温泉スキー場 Address: 2457-1 Japan Phone Number: 0255-86-2370 Opening Period: December 18 2022 *Depends on snowfall condition Hours: 8:30am-4:30pm Lift tickets: 1-day lift ticket Akakura Onsen Ski Area: 17 courses With 100% natural snow COVID-19 countermeasures are also in place and plastic barriers across registers and counters The lifts are divided among three areas for a total of 14 operating lifts it will be easy to reach the section you want Akakura Onsen Ski Area 赤倉温泉スキー場 Address: 949-2111 Akakurakita51-3 949-2111 Nearest Station: Myokokogen Station （Myoko-haneuma Line） Phone Number: 0255-87-2125 2022 Opening Hours: - Regular: 8:30am - 5:00pm - Overnight: 5:00pm - 10:00pm In addition to the fully maintained flat regular courses there are also plenty of non-compacted snow courses sure to satisfy both beginners and advanced skiers alike There are 7 lifts and most of them are super fast there are also family-deal tickets and services like equipment rentals and classes Check out the official website for details Sign up for our weekly newsletter of articles from Japan Myoko Kogen, one of Japan’s oldest ski destinations, is set for a major overhaul. Singaporean investment group PCG has announced a 10-year 210 billion yen plan aimed at transforming this quiet ski town into a thriving mega resort to rival the likes of Aspen PCG has raised 35 billion yen (AUD$367 million) for its ‘Japan Tourism Fund One’ the bulk of which will be injected into Myoko’s long-standing ski industry the company has already acquired 350 hectares of land in the Myoko region is one of Japan’s first-established ski destinations The first phase of PCG’s investment plan is focused on developing large-scale luxury accommodation alongside housing for thousands of potential employees The company has attracted the interest of more than 10 global hotel brands at least two of which will be given the green light in December Future plans for development include a shopping district with luxury brand stores and fine dining restaurants Of course, this is not unique to the Myoko region. Across the country, the number of skiers and snowboarders has fallen by 75% since the late ’90s, a trend driven by Japan’s ageing population and stagnant economy. Skiers and snowboarders now make up just 3% of the population, down from 14% in 1998 Of Japan’s 450+ ski resorts, a small minority, led by Niseko and Hakuba, have seen massive growth throughout this same period – a contradiction that can be attributed to the increase in foreign skiers and snowboarders visiting Japan. From 2013 to 2017, for example, the number of foreign skiers grew from 300,000 to 860,000 thanks in part to a rapidly growing population of Chinese skiers Japan’s tourism industry has rebounded strongly since the country re-opened its borders in October 2022. A renewed demand for Japanese powder saw international skiers return to the slopes in numbers, with Niseko reporting 1.73 million visitors during the 2022/23 winter season nearing the 2.15 million it recorded during the 2018/19 season This was largely achieved without assistance from Chinese tourists who weren’t able to travel until January this year when China relaxed its zero-COVID policy will be hoping that Myoko can tap into this lucrative international market its potential as a world-class ski hub is supported by a few key traits including its proximity to Tokyo (<300 km) its accessibility by shinkansen (bullet train) and its impeccable powder credentials (13+ m snow per season) Myoko’s reputation for powder snow needs no selling and one need look no further than Myoko Kogen for the quintessential Japow ski adventure As the brand new display at the Myoko Kogen Visitor Centre next to Imori Pond points out, the area is “one of the snowiest places on Earth”, averaging around 14 metres per season (quite a bit more during the 2021/22 season) Siberian storms gather moisture over the Sea of Japan and unleash on resorts close to the west coast before heading on to other places waking up to waist-deep snow is not uncommon So it’s a good idea to know which resort might suit your style on any given day Depending upon your definition of “Myoko” you could be talking of a mountain Below is a breakdown of the main resorts followed by the all-important info on how to get here Akakura Kanko is one of the oldest resorts in Japan “Akakan” has one gondola and six quads and offers plenty of variety The maximum elevation is 1500m and the longest run is 4.5km You’ll find terrain for everyone with 40% beginner Myoko Snowsports operate their ski school from the Champion side of Akakan and so you may want to familiarise yourself with this area Connected to Akakan is Akakura Onsen Ski Resort above the little village of the same name (what many consider the “centre of town” if there is such a thing) this is quite a large resort in Japanese terms especially for those without a great deal of experience Half of the runs are for beginners with 30% intermediate and 20% advanced Akakura Onsen has many of the same facilities and features as Akakan including kids’ facilities and a terrain park but unlike Akakan Given the proximity and how easy it is to ski between the two main resorts you may even want to consider Akakan and Onsen as one resort you can get a joint pass at a reasonable price for these two connected resorts Many take this option as it lets skiers and riders start at one and finish at the other — helpful if you want to start the day with a coffee at your favourite cafe and end the day with a beer at your bar of choice or if you simply want more bang for your buck over the course of a whole day on the mountain access to backcountry at the Akakura resorts involves boot packing to some deep and steep riding back into the resort For more info on Akakura Kanko, click here For more info on Akakura Onsen, click here Ikenotaira is home to some wide-open terrain Besides being a pretty smooth introduction for those just dipping their toes into the trees Ike styles itself as a resort open to what one might call “alternative snow activities” such as snow bikes as well as being a choice area for snowshoeing there’s plenty of space and rarely feels too crowded There are a few advanced runs but it is ideally suited to beginners and intermediates; 40% beginner While there is something for everyone on the right day a powder day may not be that day as there’s probably not enough steep to suit the deep if you’ve woken up to snow to the waist And just like the trees and on-piste stuff backcountry at Ikenotaira is perhaps a bit better suited to beginners and intermediates than the advanced riders For more info and course map, click here Sugi is home to Japan’s longest run at 8.5 km but it’s the amazing park riding that is the highlight you’ll find numerous rails and other features to keep you interested for hours Sugi provides backcountry access into the crater of Mount Myoko and There’s the option to ride back to the resort or ride/hike into the crater and up to Myoko-san (with the help of an experienced guide For more info and course map, click here Lotte Arai is one of those resorts either included or excluded when the boundaries of Myoko Kogen get blurry What is for certain is that it is quite close to Akakura and more than worthy of inclusion The first thing that separates Lotte Arai from many other Japanese ski resorts is above tree-line skiing in wide bowls Off-piste action is permitted in avalanche-controlled areas The second point that might differentiate Arai in the eyes of first-time visitors is the different aesthetic of the resort itself, on occasion referred to as Disneyland-esque owing to its pastel-infused vibe. It probably won’t feel too much like authentic Japan but does boast some amazing facilities and Myoko Snowsports also operates a wing of their ski school meaning English-speaking families are well-catered for For more info, click here Equally close in the opposite direction to Lotte Arai from Akakura are both Madarao Mountain Resort and Tangram Ski Circus These two connected resorts offer enough variety to comfortably call them a destination unto themselves but can also make a very convenient day trip from the main areas of Myoko Kogen The main attraction here is tree skiing but there’s also some good side and backcountry Nozawa Onsen is under an hour away (depending on road conditions) Myoko Kogen is about 3.5 hours northwest of Tokyo slightly beyond Nagano Prefecture and its prefectural capital of the same name take the Shinkansen from either Tokyo Station or Ueno Station to Nagano city Change here for the local train to Myoko Kogen Station if your hotel doesn’t provide shuttles to the four main resorts each morning if your hotel provides parking then getting around by car affords the utmost in freedom Pro-tip; take the Shinkansen to Nagano city and rent a car from there rather than in Tokyo — rental companies in Nagano will assume you’re travelling to places like Myoko and therefore include winter tyres and the appropriate insurance Red hot chilli peppers and cold snowy landscapes are a perfect match Located in the mountains of southern Niigata Prefecture the small city of Myoko is attracting ever bigger recognition secluded hot spring resorts and adrenaline-pumping activities it’s a great travel destination only two hours from Tokyo For those who can’t go travel at the moment, TW organized a series of events and interactive workshops where our readers got to learn about Myoko. On October 2 and 3 in Creative Space 8/ in Shibuya Hikarie visitors had the chance to experience the best of Myoko Just enough so that their travel appetites started working Here is what we all learned about Myoko from the TW x Myoko event Miyoko is a great destination whenever you go an active volcano and one of Japan’s top 100 famous mountains The whole area is gorgeous when the leaves turn red in fall and when everything blooms in spring Other popular spots are Imori Pond and Naena Falls Many visitors tend to prefer winter in Myoko because this area is blessed with dramatic mountains and abundant snowfall There are numerous skiing and snowboarding destinations in Myoko the air is crisp and the natural hot springs in the area are plentiful fermented seasoning passed down through the generations for over 400 years but the base is fermented chili peppers preserved in salt and snow the peppers are placed outside on the snow in winter because it’s said that removes their bitterness The total fermentation process can take from three to six years The final product is usually made of a mix of yuzu we had the chance to taste the kanzuri condiment and bring a little jar home participants made talismans from dried kanzuri chili peppers which are believed to ward off evil spirits It’s not just chili peppers that are made better by snow in Myoko Locally-made denim is also strengthened in a trial by ice and snow Maruni Jeans is a denim company that has been based in Myoko since 1950 Part of its production process involves washing jeans in ice-cold water and dipping them in snow It makes the fabric both durable and pleasant a pair of Maruni Jeans can last you decades participants could touch the jeans and see firsthand the difference between quality clothes and fast fashion items This is why you’ll find excellent sake breweries in Myoko like Ayumasamune Shuzo Participants in the event tasted Myoko amazake the non-alcoholic rice drink that’s a great alternative to alcoholic sake Myoko’s fermentation culture doesn’t end there It also produces distinctive drinks like hozuki (Chinese Lantern flower) cider and a fermented pomegranate drink there’s Myoko’s famous herbal liquor “Yuaraze.” It’s made by fermenting and maturing 63 kinds of carefully selected raw materials for more than a year these buckwheat noodles even predate ramen and udon noodles but in some places like Myoko there is one more method of eating buckwheat the dish is a small ball of boiled buckwheat flour topped with soy sauce we had the chance to taste this delightful dish and even combine it with the kanzuri condiment for those who wanted a spicy kick it’s a dish that will warm you up in the cold Niigata winter Participants at the event already started making plans to go see autumn foliage or go skiing in Myoko. In the meantime, its kanzuri sauce and kanzuri charm will warm them up and keep them company. If you want to plan your own trip to Myoko, check out the official tourism website Here are some more photos from the TW x Myoko event in Shibuya Hikarie tree-skiing and accessible backcountry and is a “must visit” destination in Japan Joe Stanco has been living in Myoko for a few winters where he owns and operates his store Joey’s Myoko and rides powder whenever he can Here Joey shares his inside knowledge  on his second home for the ultimate guide to Myoko Often referred to as the powder Mecca of Honshu, Myoko Kogen regularly receives an annual snowfall over 15 metres and with seven small resorts which are in close proximity to each other it is one of Japan’s best destinations for a snow holiday There’s a variety of terrain from beginners to advanced tree skiing and easily accessible sidecountry Myoko Kogen is a 3.5-hour train ride from Tokyo’s International Airports There are nine resorts within a 45-minute drive of Myoko but the four major resorts in Myoko – Akakura Onsen Ikenotaira and Suginohara – are centrally located in the heart of Myoko The village of Akakura Onsen is the perfect place to stay as Akakura Onsen and Akakura Kanko ski resorts are within an easy walk to most of the accommodations and you can buy a lift pass for one or both You can also catch a shuttle to Ikenotaira and Suginohara Akakura Onsen Ski Resort and its user-friendly terrain is the best resort for beginners or to get your legs back in action if you haven’t skied for a while It is right next door to Akakura Kanko Ski Resort which is a better option for an intermediate rider/ skier Akakura Kanko has a great intermediate run from top to bottom following the Gondola line and passing the famous Kanko Hotel the well-spaced tree runs at Akakura Kanko Resort are perfect on a powder day Kanko has a great well-known hike up and out into the back country Ikenotaira resort also caters well for beginner and intermediate riders and skiers with long  The resorts are also served two ski schools,Myoko Snowsports and Yodel Snow School which have English speaking instructors and offer lessons for children Suginohara is the largest of the four resorts and has plenty of advanced and expert terrain and also has the longest run in Japan at 8.5km Suginohara is a local favorite because of its variety of terrain and has some great rolling hill groomers from top to bottom which are perfect for intermediates Suginohara has open powder bowls located in the side country tree skiing and the backcountry and there is plenty of great side and backcountry terrain on offer backcountry skiing and snowboarding should not be taken lightly and it is extremely important you are going with a guide gear and plenty of off-piste experience before you go There are a number of local guiding businesses and stores catering for backcountry tours including Joey’s Aoki and Uchida Sports which has a good selection of backcountry and powder specific gear for hire Myoko also has plenty of off snow adventures and cultural experiences within easy access and a visit to the ancient village of Togakushi Kogen is something you will not forget a Shinto shrine nestled between 900-year-old cedar trees The Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is also nearby, and daily bus tours are available from Akakura Onsen. Another great option for a day off the snow is the Echigo Tokimeki Railway a scenic trip which through the local surroundings of Myoko across to the coast It is a spectacular journey and the railway cars have huge windows with expansive views of the mountains and countryside The dining car has a selection of menus created by local chefs featuring local produce sourced from the surrounding farms and the nearby ocean Most hotels are centred around Akakura Onsen as it allows access to the main ski resorts and has the most food and drink options. Myoko has a variety of accomodation family run ryokans and lodges (but slightly older) The Akakura Kanko Hotel is located halfway down Akakura Kanko resort it’s an absolute icon of the Japanese ski industry and continues to provide luxury ski-in ski-out accommodation to guests Family friendly hotels include Akakura Hotel & Annex Most of Myoko’s restaurants and bars are around the Akakura area Nearly all of them are still owned by the local Japanese people so you’ll find the izakayas and restaurants offering Japanese dishes like ramen You can get everything from traditional rice dishes to sushi to homemade kara-age chicken you will find great atmosphere and familiar foods and drinks here If you’d like to explore more traditional Japanese style places It is also nice to gather at your hotel’s lounge with a fireplace Myoko Kogen is a must visit for any skier or snowboarder long vertical and some of the deepest and lightest powder in the world All complemented with an authentic Japanese experience that makes a visit to Myoko a snow holiday you will never forget hosted by Mountainwatch editor Reggae Elliss you’ll be shredding the Tenjin pow with local guides You’ll also explore the many other little resorts in the Minakami area while staying at a stunning Onsen resort with daily breakfast dinner with Geisha and Taiko Drum performance and so much more after Minakami head to Myoko Kogen for 5 more days of powder hunting and resort exploring Click HERE for more details Myoko is easily accessible by train from both Narita and Haneda airports Take the airport train to Toyo station and then transfer to a Shinkansen to Nagano From there catch the Shinano Railway Kita-Shinano Lineto Myoko Kogen Station Most resorts and accommodation options are within 10 to 15 minutes of the station so a cab ride from the station is your best option Want to start planning your own Myoko adventure? Click through to Mountainwatch Travel to see some great packages another big storm was due and with over one metre in the forecast.. showcase of spectacular big mountain freeriding from some of the world’s best.. he Snow Australia Awards have allowed us to reflect on another amazing season.. we see higher than average pressure to the southeast of New Zealand Snow Australia Awards recognise the achievements of athletes across the 2024/25.. The Mountainwatch.com team is as passionate and dedicated about the mountains as you are everything about those huge piles of dirt and rock keep our blood flowing Our team strives to provide you with detailed weather conditions and vision of our most used mountain areas in Australia Inbound travel to Japan is set to make its post-covid return Many hungry powder fiends see the Japanese food scene as merely the icing on the cake of a day ploughing through fresh snow Myoko has more than its fair share of taste havens A few hundred metres from the gondola at Akakura Kanko Ski Resort Pontaro is an izakaya restaurant — one selling small dishes a bit like tapas This makes it a great option to indulge in traditional Japanese dishes while offering variety — everything from yakitori to okonomiyaki and noodle dishes the drink menu is equally diverse with beer The bonus is that Pontaro has a reputation for quality among locals and past visitors alike Nihontei and Tsugumi are a little under three kilometres apart and share the same owner Although decor couldn’t be any more different and dishes vary a little these restaurants share an apparent commitment to deliciousness Nihontei is an izakaya on National Route 18 very close to the Myoko Kogen interchange It’s the original of the two and visitors are often surprised by the “rustic” vibe of the place A few minutes back up the mountain inside the Alpen Blick (Landmark) Onsen building is the younger brother Tsugumi is a little more modern-looking when compared to Nihontei must-tries include the jingisukan (the Japanese pronunciation of “Genghis Khan” – as grilled lamb is known as in Japan) and seafood salad This cafe restaurant is owned and run by Kimi and Miyu from Japow House and is located diagonally across from Myoko Snowsports They try to incorporate as many local Myoko ingredients as possible in their dishes Along with specials at the whim of the chef come regular dishes including croque monsieur Image: No Name Myoko / Japow House can be found directly across the street from the post office on the Myoko Kogen Station side of route 18 This can make it a little difficult for those travelling to Myoko without a car but for those who can get there giving it an edge you won’t find everywhere Add to that the traditional atmosphere and fantastic service honed over six decades and it’s a pretty good bet for a great feed Zen restaurant is located at Silverhorn Hotel in Shin-Akakura Even if the location isn’t convenient enough for you they can arrange a complimentary pick-up and drop-off from any Myoko accommodation This is particularly handy if you’re keen on sampling a freshly made cocktail or one of a selection of international wines Drinks are not necessarily the highlight though That would be the constantly changing Western-Japanese fusion set menu You’ll find this local favourite diagonally across the Ikenotaira intersection from Alpen Blick (Landmark) onsen that houses Tsugumi While the name of the establishment gives away the fact ramen is on the menu think of it as an izakaya more so than your average ramen joint Arakin specialties include shio chashumen (salt-flavoured ramen noodles with thinly sliced pork) and braised pork and cabbage there’s also plenty on offer for those who are thirsty following a long day sliding down Mount Myoko It was very popular in its former location underneath the now-closed Pomodoro pizza restaurant along the main drag of Akakura Onsen Udon no Fu may be thought of as an izakaya restaurant If the black broth and plastic apron that comes with the dish hints at a gimmick You’ll want to use the apron as you go deep into the bowl of delicious Ask the staff at your hotel where to find the new location The last three entries on this list are not in Myoko Kogen but semi-accessible enough and too delicious to leave off Derrick and the team at the Roastery have found instant success with their combo of great food The Roastery specialises in authentic Californian cuisine (read; mouth-watering burgers and wings that can’t get into your mouth fast enough) Being right on the lake and with a view to begin coffee tastings very soon The Roastery offers a unique view and experience away from the mountain when visiting Myoko they’ll start transfers to and from Myoko accommodations for those without a car and/or who wish to indulge in a cocktail The Roastery, Myoko. Image: Nojiri Coffee Company The “Menya” part of Menya Ashita simply means they sell noodles Ashita is a ramen restaurant that isn’t technically in Myoko but is one hundred per cent worth the effort some of Ashita’s ramen dishes are quite generous including slices of chicken to go with the typical pork on top The thickness of the broth goes a long way to solving issues that come about from enjoying too many sakes the night before so long as you can find a tree to have a nap under afterwards These and other specialties such as fish-based broth make this place a little different from your typical ramen restaurant A post shared by 麺屋 あした (@ashita.111) Echigoya is a yakiniku (“grilled meat”) restaurant where you cook yourself on the table even if you do choose to simply grill vegetables instead of meat you probably won’t leave smelling the same as you did when you entered it may not be suitable for all vegetarians or vegans despite having vegetables on the menu it certainly is suitable for the carnivores and omnivores among us looking for an authentically Japanese and inconspicuous dining experience Yakiniku is rarely a particularly cheap meal Perhaps this is why they always seem so busy It’s not uncommon to get turned away and so for this reason If you don’t speak Japanese get someone to call on your behalf Echigoya is around a 15-minute drive from Akakura towards Joetsu is one of the ski resorts in the Myoko Kogen area a ski area in Niigata prefecture on the Sea of Japan is set to revive as a global resort thanks to a more than 200 billion yen ($1.36 billion) investment by an overseas real estate manager The area was a popular destination for skiers during Japan's bubble economy in the 1980s but has since become deserted It will be redeveloped by Singapore's Patience Capital Group (PCG) which envisions a resort similar to Whistler a town in Canada and home to a global ski resort called Whistler Blackcomb an afternoon or evening onsen becomes just as much a part of the appeal as fresh lines and ramen The mineral-packed waters of a therapeutic and restorative natural onsen offer the perfect complement to a day on the mountain While some accommodations will have their own in-house onsen what are the options for those looking to heal their aches and pains ahead of the next day’s punishment there are five hot spring sources across the seven onsen areas of Akakura Spring skiers from seasons past may be familiar with the last of those mentioned outdoor hot spring that typically opens sometime during March one needs to walk over the snow but it’s well worth the effort their outdoor areas) will be closed during winter when having a look at your onsen options on your next Myoko ski trip You may have a favourite onsen not mentioned This one has never made any previous lists renovations are in full swing with a view to opening in December 2023 Situated on the main street of Akakura Onsen (the old Yuki Dake/Jack’s Bar building) this new establishment will include an onsen with a unique point of difference for Myoko – mixed bathing While many plans are yet to be fully finalised the onsen will be part of a “recovery centre” that also includes saunas Unlike all the options following this entry on the list The in-house restaurant (twinned with locations in Hakuba and Canggu Bali) will be serving a modern take on Western favourites with some Japanese influence in the form of local seasonal produce a gym and guest rooms with a mixture of dorm and private options “I’m excited to be a part of something new on the main street of Akakura – the newest thing in decades!” The mixed bathing/swimwear option fills the void for those visitors who want to soak with a partner friend or family member of a different sex or simply those among us who are still a bit shy about the options below (strictly Depending upon which map or website you look it up on this place will either show up as Landmark Onsen Café or Alpen Blick Spa (not to be confused with the onsen inside Alpen Blick Hotel at a different Ikenotaira address) diagonally across the intersection from the ever-popular Arakin Ramen Landmark features a large indoor area with huge windows offering a grand view of Mount Myoko (or an intrusive blizzard of dumping snow) a sauna and an outdoor area where you might occasionally see one of the younger locals jump bare-bummed into the snow on a dare – that sort of behaviour probably shouldn’t be encouraged Also inside the building is a relaxation area and internet café, a convenience store and a restaurant, Tsugumi. See our Myoko Kogen restaurant guide for more info on this generously priced izakaya Lime Resort’s onsen shares the same source and is also open to the public This is your go-to after a day’s sliding at Suginohara this onsen shares its name with the famous nearby Naena Falls which most people will have seen in a photo Image: naenanoyu.com community-run affair and is a lovely place to rejuvenate and relax It is also the only onsen option at the Sugi end of Myoko Kogen Just down the hill a little from Landmark is the onsen at Fureai Kaikan It is one of the cheapest options in Myoko and is much more of a local experience than either Landmark or Lime this onsen is flanked by relaxation areas and other rooms used for meetings and the like Visitors looking to ease muscle and joint aches while getting a feel for the local community may enjoy this option but a word of warning – the onsen is small (especially the male side) The term “two and a half men” comes to mind in a fairly literal fashion this place uses the same source as Landmark and Lime but offers a local vibe The two main differences are that it’s bigger than Fureai Kaikan and situated down the hill in Myoko Kogen – or Myoko Onsen Ō-yu is about a 15-minute walk from Myoko Kogen Station Visitors looking to fill in wait time with a very Japanese experience could do a lot worse than paying it a visit Bonus onsen – Hotel Kofukan is also in the area and is home to an onsen with great views of the mountain reserving a private onsen may also be an option “Hotel Kofukan is also in the area and is home to an onsen with great views of the mountain” Hotel Taiko is one that has been around for many years just next to the fabulous and funky Grape and Grain bar This is very popular with visitors and Myokoites alike owing not so much to the indoor section but to what’s outside you’ll find a large and comfortable outdoor bath with fantastic views out towards Tangram naked but warm under the gently falling snow that tops off a day like no other When you’ve soaked your aches and pains away a soothing whisky or wine is literally just a few short steps away this is not an exhaustive list but does offer some pretty good places to start your chosen accommodation may offer you an option not mentioned above For those looking for a bit more information on dos and don’ts, check out Ski Asia’s “The Skier’s Guide to Onsen in Japan” Quick onsen tip: one of the most often asked questions is regarding tattoos There is plenty of information on that subject in the article just mentioned but in short ask the staff at your accommodation to find out for you before you go Myokoite Jamie Majewski has called the area home for the past few turbulent years. He opened his self-contained, large group-style accommodation, Good’en Inn the West Australian couldn’t know the changes the tourism industry would soon see Jamie says his hands-on approach to Good’en Inn afforded brief validation being met with a “great response from guests” His business enjoyed a “fantastic early season,” an ever-positive Jamie insists “After the pandemic struck and borders closed tourism for large group bookings just stopped,” Jamie recalls “I had to change tact and supply rooms individually Future investment plans were put on hold.” Spotting a unique chance to “enjoy Japan during the unusual time” (read “share the mountain with far fewer people”) Jamie says he “was happy to just stay and wait out the storm” That same storm provided further opportunities Many Myoko businesses were at the mercy of Mother Nature While a quick survey of Myoko reveals a handful of casualties the number would be greater without this in-demand handyman “Snow clearing and basic property repairs were in high demand,” Jamie recalls He puts it down to both the lack of hands ordinarily provided by working holidaymakers and “business owners stuck abroad not being able to reach their properties for basic seasonal maintenance” “I can recall times where I would finish the rounds go inside and have a coffee just to go back out and start all over again because 50cm had already fallen.” “The magic of Myoko is the constant fight against nature and the elements be it the forest trying to reclaim the mountain by growing 30 cm a day or the snow trying to crash all existence with a metre overnight.” “Around the same time as the walls had reached six metres at my front door my snow blower engine exploded I made a retreat and abandoned the front access to the house.” Jamie continues: “The daily snow forecast check became that of an addiction to predict my future suffering Never before have I heard of people not going riding on a powder day because it was impossible to move even on the steepest runs.” Jamie recalls his regular one-hour snow-clearing routine suddenly taking a few more hours off the clock go inside and have a coffee just to go back out and start all over again because 50cm had already fallen,” he says “My property is usually an easy job but the walls become so high I was unable to displace the snow over the top,” Jamie explains “Around the same time as the walls had reached six metres at my front door my snow blower engine exploded I made a retreat and abandoned the front access to the house A tunnel formed and eventually swallowed the whole area which included both my front door and my gas bottles” a week after this I would discover that those LP gas bottles that supplied my heaters and hot water required changing And so began the ten-hour expedition to reclaim the front of the house with a shovel Before the reader goes feeling too sympathetic it should be pointed out that this few-month period had its upsides Resilience requires optimism but for Jamie this didn’t require him to work too hard to find it The last few seasons have been unimaginable and unexplainable,” enthuses Jamie “The pandemic time gave me an unbelievable opportunity Endless powder runs where the only track you could see was the last one you laid Getting to the lift ten minutes before opening and the only people there chasing first tracks with you are some of your best mates from the local community “The riding was like nothing I had ever experienced” “The riding was like nothing I had ever experienced,” he continues “I was able to ride terrain I’d never discovered and really explore and appreciate Myoko-san without the crowds That coupled with my work obligations has been nothing short of life-changing” He goes on to mention similar scenes during mid-week day trips to places like Lotte Arai Prefectural government subsidy promotions helped locals get around to different resorts easing financial burdens without sacrificing too much fun during such tough times There’s no proof that Jamie’s fondest covid-era mountain memory actually happened “My most memorable moment from the pandemic seasons would be dropping the cornice at Suginohara — the one directly under the top chair as it goes over the gully Only to find out old mate’s finger was covering the camera the whole time” Jamie cites variable conditions and the mountain’s variety as to why the ideal Myoko mountain experience depends upon the day one embarks on it “I don’t think you can have a favourite run hike or experience once you know the mountain and resorts well enough,” he asserts “Depending on conditions there is always somewhere amazing on offer to explore you pack a rice ball and a one-cup nihonshu and hike up just to see the view that so few others get to see” He speaks with what many fellow Myoko business owners would like to call realistic optimism when envisaging a brightening future The Myoko area has so much more to offer,” says Jamie “Whether it’s surfing forty minutes away in the Japan Sea or enjoying the lake life ten minutes away at Lake Nojiri.” “Initially I just wanted to open an accommodation where people in large groups could come stay and enjoy the winter,” Jamie explains in relation to his plans prior to more recent consideration “But now I have such a greater appreciation for the area and I would be hard pressed to tell you which season I like better” “The Myoko area has so much more to offer,” says Jamie “Whether it’s surfing forty minutes away in the Japan Sea or enjoying the lake life ten minutes away at Lake Nojiri Hiking through the autumn leaves or sitting by Takada Castle taking in the cherry blossoms Eating Japanese traditional street food or barbecuing by a waterfall “I’ve been here three years and I’m always finding a new place to go or being told of another secret local gem This is where I would like to focus my business and help people experience all I have experienced for themselves I’d like to have guests return in the so-called ‘off-season’ and see how ‘on’ it actually is.” A weak yen and snow-hungry powder fiends tearing the place apart …but in a good way” Jamie is as pragmatic as he is enthusiastic when it comes to the challenges involved in Myoko life “Language and culture are always difficult no matter where you are in the world But I think that here in Myoko if you’re willing to try the support you receive from the local community is overwhelmingly positive” to Myoko may not seem to be a linear path but for Augusto “I didn’t know about the mountains until I found them,” he explains “I used to like the beach but when you get started with snowboarding and riding powder for the first time Snow wasn’t the catalyst for coming to Japan a powder addiction would develop after a few more years of finding his place in the world “My father is Peruvian but ethnically Japanese and a lot of my family already lived here,” Kenji begins in answering the “why Japan?” question “I got kicked out of university in Peru and my father said ‘I’m not gunna pay for shit anymore If you want money you go to Japan and work’ I spent the first six years not speaking the language and not enjoying Japanese life much It wasn’t until I started studying Japanese that life got more interesting” while driving a forklift around a copper pipe factory in Kanagawa It was his wife who introduced him to the compulsive ups and downs of snowboarding The season before Covid was the one during which everything changed for the future owners of Myoko’s Konayuki guest house “I caught an edge trying to do a 180 spin at Maiko Snow Resort (Yuzawa Niigata) in early 2019 and broke my collarbone,” expounds Kenji “I had a lot of time on my hands after that” The Konayuki family team (left to right): Kenji “Konatsu and I like staying in guest houses when we travel because we can meet people from all over We started looking for a place when I broke my collarbone we met a Myoko family through a common friend They helped us find the place and we first saw it in May 2019 We knew you can ski during winter and Nojiri Lake is close for the summer months We made the commitment without having snowboarded in Myoko or even seeing it during winter” “I didn’t really know what to expect,” Kenji admits “I had never used a snowblower before I came here The 2019/20 season supposedly had the least amount of snow in living memory but it was almost too much for me It was probably a good year to get used to Myoko because since then the snow has gotten crazier and crazier Last year I had to do it twice per day and it was really hard to keep up Luckily it was almost the end of the huge dumps by then” The hurdles haven’t stopped with excessive snow management Kenji and Konatsu insist Covid’s silver linings were having more time to snowboard and get to know their regular domestic guests But a growing family and business continue to present further welcome challenges baby Mia may not be able to provide much assistance at Konayuki over the coming few winters “This year will be a challenge with a child but also an opportunity,” Kenji insists “It’s good for kids to meet people and have a chance to hear different languages — maybe one day speak them Keiga is studying but will help out with Konayuki and the new place where he can.” Kenji and Konatsu have pressed pause on the renovations for the 2022/23 winter season but their new self-contained property will be open in time for the next one Arai Villa Myoko is around the corner from the increasingly popular Lotte Arai Resort about 20km up the road from Konayuki in Akakura “This is a new approach to our business to see how it is to run a self-contained property,” Kenji explains “There are only a few self-contained accommodations in Myoko and nothing near Lotte Arai “We bought an old house only a few minutes by car to Lotte Arai Resort Arai has been getting a lot of attention over the past few years and we think there will be many people who want to ski there in the future but not necessarily stay at the resort itself.” “The renovations are more extensive than those we did at Konayuki Back to the bones rather than superficial stuff They are being done half by DIY and half by hiring a company for the technical stuff It will be open and ready to go by next summer.” Konatsu embracing Myoko’s famous snowy conditions Kenji and Konatsu’s business is one that relies on the ability of people to travel — a challenge that most in the tourism game will know the future looks more luminous than it has ever been New projects and new family members offer inherent reasons to keep dark days in the past “Having a baby now makes things more interesting,” says Kenji “I don’t just want to snowboard all the time I want to teach my daughter to experience nature know Myoko and be able to snowboard with us at some point in the near future One of the best feelings is snowboarding with my family through the trees so I’m looking forward to Mia growing and being able to teach her how to snowboard.” By premium quality rice and the birthplace of skiing in Japan As the temperature drops and winter descends it’s time to begin planning your trip into a winter wonderland 11 ski slopes and just a two-hour shinkansen ride away from Tokyo Lotte Arai Resort is the perfect mountain resort to experience winter sports in Japan Located on the southern tip of the prefecture in Myoko Covering over 1.5 million square meters — with beginner intermediate and expert courses — the resort boasts Japan’s largest in-bounds free-ride terrain there are nearly 212 hectares of ground patrolled by the mountain’s top-notch avalanche monitoring staff The main slopes also offer night skiing for resort guests ensuring you get in all the runs you want during your stay Even those who have to mentally repeat pizza and French fries or families with varying levels of skill can enjoy what the mountain has to offer which are great for skiers of any age to enrol and improve their skills whether you are still on beginner slopes or gliding down black diamond runs There are plenty of reasons why Japan is consistently mentioned as a bucket-list travel destination convenience and Japanese hospitality are just a handful that naturally spring to mind but there’s one other thing that has been bringing (and keeping) people here for decades: Japanese powder snow as it is affectionately known — “Japow”.  Tokyoites are spoilt for choice when it comes to places to enjoy the much coveted Japow but with so much to consider when it comes to picking the perfect family snow trip location finding a place that covers all bases is rare.  One place that has become a go-to for Tokyo families in recent years thanks to its ideal temperatures, convenient access from Tokyo, plenty of Japow and an award-winning snowsports school is Lotte Arai Resort in Myoko.  The first thing that Lotte Arai has going for it is its easy access from Tokyo At just two hours on the Hokuriku Shinkansen and a 20-minute shuttle from Joetsu Myoko Station it’s no wonder the resort is equally popular for both weekend and extended stays.  Another thing that sets Myoko apart from other winter destinations is the weather While Myoko has more annual snowfall than other popular destinations like Niseko even mid-winter temperatures are comparatively mild meaning fewer layers to wear and less to pack the resort has options for everyone from beginners to advanced with plenty of un-groomed terrain to keep things interesting for more adventurous riders Whether you’re looking to relax after a long day of riding or you’re taking a day off the slopes trampolining and numerous bars and restaurants leaving few reasons to leave the resort after checking in.  despite the huge amount of snowfall the resort experiences each year visitors can enjoy peace of mind on the slopes thanks to the resort’s attention to safety and advanced avalanche control systems Combine these world-class amenities with the range of programs available at the adjacent Myoko Snowsports and every member of the family can choose their own adventure Having won Japan’s best snowsports school at the Ski Asia awards in 2020, parents can feel confident that they’re leaving their kids in safe and capable hands at Myoko Snowsports With a variety of group classes for kids aged three to fourteen Myoko Snowsports places emphasis on safety fun and learning in a friendly environment.  The three to six-year-old kids program offers both morning and full-day courses which include play time and lunch in the specially-designed kids’ center where students can get to know each other and build trust with their instructors.  The seven to fourteen-year-old classes are full-day options including lunch in one of the on-mountain restaurants and all groups are capped at four students — meaning kids can get started quickly and make the most of their time on the slopes Club Fuyu is a camp-style program available for seven to eighteen year olds on weekends throughout the snow season or as a six-day spring camp program from late March until early April Designed to teach kids various mountain skills and enhance their overall snow experience each day has a different schedule featuring a variety of themed activities including mountain exploration Lunches for the younger students feature a rotating menu with attention to dietary requirements and COVID safety While the kids are out brushing up on their turns there’s no shortage of activities for parents on and off the slopes For those keen to make the most of the snow private adult programs are available for groups of up to four guests and the price and duration of each program are fixed regardless of group size and flexibly tailored to your goals and ability level.  For those looking for something special to take home from your trip private photo shoots are available to book for one hour or more which include edited high resolution copies of all your shots and one printed photo to take home Whether you’re after family photos or action shots in the powder your professional photographer will consult with you and tailor your shots to your preferences.  events such as wine tasting and back-slalom races are organized throughout the season by the resort staff the resort features 11 restaurants and bars indoor and open-air hot springs and swimming pools library and a cafe for guests to enjoy as well as meeting rooms and high-speed wifi for those working remotely with most of these amenities offering room-charge services guests can enjoy a relatively cash-free holiday Lotte Arai and Myoko Snowsports have already developed a loyal following of returning customers Whether it’s families returning from year to year the team at Myoko Snowsports have helped their customer’s skills grow with every return visit.  The brand new facilities have already earned Lotte Arai the title of Japan’s Best Ski Resort but you can expect fresh tracks and short lift lines outdoor pool and Asia’s longest zipline are available for visitors as well as the local nature which includes cherry blossoms rivers and picturesque mountain vistas.  with plenty of Japow remaining and snowsports programs open until early April now is your chance to experience the relatively unknown gem that is Lotte Arai Resort.  Lotte Arai Resort’s appeal also comes from its luxury amenities Standing out as the resort’s pride and joy is the Hoshizora onsen The natural hot spring water allows guests to comfortably relax outdoors with a spectacular backdrop of snow-capped mountains and star-filled nights low-alkaline waters are said to improve skin health and will help with muscle soreness after a long day of skiing you can enjoy karaoke with plenty of sake and beer on hand or sit down to a meal at one of three hotel gourmet restaurants: Japanese If you’re looking for something unique to Niigata be sure to try some snow-aged pork or hand-dripped coffee made from beans stored in snow The resort also has everything from rock climbing to snow rafting romantic gondola rides and adventurous snowmobile tours If your children are too young to join on your excursions allowing partners to get some valuable time away from the little ones As the first mountain operated by a foreign-owned global hotel brand Witness for yourself the beauty of Niigata’s Myoko region and what makes this resort the perfect embodiment of winter paradise the world’s most prestigious season pass connecting its winter resorts owned and managed by Alterra Mountain Company (headquartered in Colorado The IKONPASS is the world’s most prestigious season pass This is the second resort in Japan to join the IKONPASS program IKON PASS is a common season pass that can be used at 52 resorts in 10 countries The IKON PASS is a season pass that can be used at 52 resorts in 10 countries and as our resorts have many inbound visitors from Australia we are looking forward to the winter season as a new content to attract inbound visitors from the North American area  (1) Present your IKON PASS and receive a 7-day lift ticket at Lotte Alai Resort Show your IKON BASE PASS and receive a 5-day lift ticket to Lotte Alai Resort Upgrade to First Class is available for an additional ¥2,000 For more information on purchasing IKON PASS, please check the official IKON PASS website: https://www.ikonpass.com From purple sweet potatoes to wild horse sightings here’s how to make the most of Okinawa’s tropical escape Explore the best local brands shaping Tokyo’s fashion scene From vintage clothing to Hawaiian-themed goods here’s what’s worth checking out before it’s gone From buying and registering a bike to key rules of the road Collagen staples for beauty and health in Japan Our handpicked list of the best events going on this month and the untold tales of Japan’s queer community Everything you need to know before and during a natural disaster Stay up to date with Tokyo news and events the former Japan head of Singapore sovereign wealth fund GIC aims to invest $1.4 billion transforming it into a luxury skiing paradise to rival Aspen For two years his investment firm has bought surrounding land at cut-rate prices thanks to the plunging yen And by 2026 he aims to have international hotels in place alongside housing for thousands of workers.googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1499653692894-0'); }); The plan to put Myoko on the world tourism map is a cornerstone project for Chan and his company Patience Capital Group which manages $500 million and also invests in residential real estate assets in Japan It comes as more global investors look to get in on the country’s red-hot tourism rebound This article was published more than 1 year ago Andrew Findlay and his family explored the Japanese Alps of Honshu.Andrew Findlay/The Globe and Mail It’s snowing so hard on Suginohara Ski Resort that even the kamoshika an endemic goat-like deer we spotted traversing the lift line the last ride up In the time it takes to ride the chairlift the small crowd of skiers and boarders has dispersed I chase my 11-year-old and 13-year-old daughters down the prosaically named Super Giant Trail both of them sending out contrails as they straight-line through thigh-deep fluff My wife and I had spent six weeks working and travelling in Southeast Asia with the kids. Being a skiing family, the icing on the cake was a two-week road trip in Japan Not the bucket-list powder skiing destination of Hokkaido – that northern island has gotten plenty of ink over the years I wanted to explore the Japanese Alps of Honshu a mere four-hour drive from the world’s most populous city and the mountains where skiing got its start in Japan a century ago Club Med’s fourth ski resort on Hokkaido fuels a ski day with fun and good food “Obscene amounts of snow” was the colourful forecast provided by Matt Dunn before our family departed Hakuba Valley two days earlier in our camper van After three days of skiing groomed runs and moguls in Hakuba we were ready for this tasty weather forecast and a collection of small resorts strung along the shoulder of Mount Myoko a still-active volcano rumbling quietly in the clouds Dunn called Myoko the “Wild West.” I was intrigued Snow often falls in copious – in other words Frigid Siberian air sweeps across the continent scooping moisture from the Sea of Japan before depositing up to 15 metres of snow annually here in the Japanese Alps of Honshu Geothermal water gurgles from the earth and is channelled into onsens then discharged onto steep streets as a form of snow removal take on another level of beauty and serenity Lunchtime ramen.Andrew Findlay/The Globe and Mail Then there’s the quirk and charm of traditional family-owned restaurants serving ramen savoury pancakes known as okonomiyaki or some other Japanese delicacy that make après eating into a culinary adventure After a month and a half of Vietnamese pho and Thai curries our normally fussy young eaters were in experimental moods thinly sliced raw horse meat that to me is delicious Shinto shrines and a centuries-old tradition of soba noodle-making in the mountains above Nagano Snowfall had turned to rain as we bobsledded our camper van into Togakushi Ski Resort’s slushy parking lot Togakushi Ski Resort.Andrew Findlay/The Globe and Mail we swooshed around for a few hours on the spring-like slopes of Togakushi I winked at my beloved when we dropped into an intermediate run called Romantic Course There was nothing romantic about the conditions a grain that grows well in the rich volcanic soil and short growing season below Mount Togakushi “My parents taught me the art of soba noodles,” says Tashiyuki Tokukate Whether it’s Tokukate making fresh soba noodles every morning for 50 years or the Togakushi liftees diligently wiping chairlift seats dry before loading skiers The four of us sink chopsticks into warm bowls of soba served in a simple broth of dried kelp The side of vegetable tempura vanishes too quickly temperatures thankfully dropped and the sun poked through a hole in the clouds as we skirted the edge of Myoko-Togakushi Renzan National Park in our trusty camper van we witnessed a delightful sight – locals gearing up for a looming snowstorm the Japanese have turned snow removal into a fine art Elderly men and women arranged snow shovels neatly against their garage doors in such a variety of shapes and sizes to make a mockery of the Canadian Tire winter catalogue we shoehorned our camper van into the parking lot at Morino Lodge Myoko The next morning a winter wonderland appeared along with a beeping symphony of snow removal equipment at work – the skier’s alarm clock After skiing Suginohara Ski Resort on our first day in Myoko we spent the next three gorging on powder at nearby Akakura Kanko I was now feeling confident with Japanese winter culture and the daily ritual of skiing in a snowstorm exploring Japanese food and vending machine curiosities like cans of hot coffee Heading up the misty mountain at Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort.Andrew Findlay/The Globe and Mail eighth-century town of narrow cobblestone streets and more than a dozen free public bathhouses with a reputation for tourist-scorching hot water Nozawa Onsen has notes of the European Alps the Austrian skiing pioneer seconded by the Japanese government in the 1930s to teach and promote skiing as a national pastime It worked: Today there are almost 600 ski resorts between the islands of Honshu and Hokkaido Sabine Findlay enjoys an après-ski foot onsen.Andrew Findlay/The Globe and Mail Up on the sprawling slopes of Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort We decide to end the day early and head for the village and Kawahara yu Onsen a mineral that occurs naturally in geothermal water My wife and two daughters disappear through the women’s entrance A sign on the wall reads 45 C: “I got this,” I tell myself I strip and sit on a cold wooden floor and as per custom lather and shower before getting into the bath I gingerly dangle my lower limbs into the pool then quickly retract next to a local who sits calmly submerged to his neck “You must plunge quickly then stay completely still,” he kindly volunteers follow the advice and to my surprise it doesn’t result in a third-degree scalding the mineral-rich water wraps me in a sumptuous and rejuvenating embrace A good friend of mine likes to say that skiing is just turning left and right on a 30-degree slope It’s the in-between moments that make travelling for snow so appealing an amalgamation of wonderful little moments Throw in some of the most incredible powder snow on the planet Giant cedars line the path to Okusha Shrine an ancient Shinto shrine near Togakushi.Andrew Findlay/The Globe and Mail Japanese ski resorts are a bargain by North American standards, thanks to intense competition. For example, at Suginohara Ski Resort kids under 12 ski for free and an adult day ticket goes for roughly $50. Go to Myoko Tourism to learn more about the resorts, getting around and lift ticket discounts. In Hakuba Valley, the Epic Pass gives riders unlimited access to 10 resorts all featuring heated bathrooms and some with restaurants and convenience stores Stay: Morino Lodge offers well-situated accommodations in Hakuba and Myoko Start the day at Morino Myoko with a hearty North American-style buffet breakfast and finish it in the hotel’s gorgeous outdoor onsen One of the joys of a Japanese winter is the food or casual izakaya (like a Japanese tapas bar) tend to be small family-run affairs expect to wait for a table between the 5 p.m Resort Etiquette: Terrain management at Japanese ski resorts can be a bit of a puzzle from resorts like Hakuba Cortina with a relaxed tree skiing and boundary policy to Togakushi Ski Resort which has a strict off-piste ban Make sure you understand the do’s and don’ts When in doubt hire an English-speaking ski instructor to guide you around Most signage at ski resorts in Myoko and Hakuba Valley is in English especially in the more traditional Japanese towns of Myoko a few other Japanese phrases can go a long way in breaking the ice The writer’s trip was partially supported by Hakuba Tourism None read or approved the story before publication Report an editorial error Report a technical issue Editorial code of conduct Authors and topics you follow will be added to your personal news feed in Following Welcome to The Globe and Mail’s comment community. This is a space where subscribers can engage with each other and Globe staff. Non-subscribers can read and sort comments but will not be able to engage with them in any way. Click here to subscribe If you would like to write a letter to the editor, please forward it to letters@globeandmail.com. Readers can also interact with The Globe on Facebook and Twitter Welcome to The Globe and Mail’s comment community This is a space where subscribers can engage with each other and Globe staff We aim to create a safe and valuable space for discussion and debate If you do not see your comment posted immediately it is being reviewed by the moderation team and may appear shortly We aim to have all comments reviewed in a timely manner Comments that violate our community guidelines will not be posted UPDATED: Read our community guidelines here We have closed comments on this story for legal reasons or for abuse. For more information on our commenting policies and how our community-based moderation works, please read our Community Guidelines and our Terms and Conditions Educational experiences for kids in the Myoko wilderness Myoko might be known as a popular winter sports retreat but the outdoor fun doesn’t stop when the snow melts away Myoko has endless options for summer time adventures English Explorers Summer Camp was established in July 2022 offering children aged six and up educational outdoor experiences including kayaking cooking and heaps more from late July until late August Snow Resort Link presents the English Explorers Summer Camp If you’re looking for a place for your child to be immersed in nature with their peers and learn self expression and leadership skills all at the same time English Explorers Summer Camp is the ideal summer getaway for your child.  English Explorers provides a fresh experience interacting with nature while learning English and making new friends in Japan Your trusted camp leaders for the summer are from all over the world making a global environment trekking and guiding you through Myoko Mountain.  Although the mountains and lakes may seem daunting at first safety is the number one priority of English Explorers Your instructors are certified in first aid and have hands-on experience in Myoko’s lush terrain and waters So when your child participates in activities such as kayaking at Lake Nojiri fishing at Kurohime or mountain biking at Ikenotaira Each day is geared towards a different skill your child will be learning with their peers Teamwork and survival skills are taught through activities such as beach cleaning and ziplining and pizza making and campfires wrap up the action-packed day All the while your child will be developing universal communication skills in English in a natural setting equipping them with the knowledge of a second language from the age of six to fifteen.  newly renovated shared rooms in which two to three explorers are assigned into separate boys and girls groups shower and onsen facilities with shampoo and body soap included The common space will host fun group activities such as arts and crafts and movie nights Not to worry if your little one has trouble sleeping at night there are night staff on duty for those explorers And they’ve got you covered in this typhoon season there is an alternate schedule to accommodate the camps that might be affected by the heavy winds.  Five sessions are available from the end of July through August The number of spots per week is twenty explorers so make sure to sign up early to ensure a spot Each camper will have plenty of time with instructors and other peers Children of all English levels are welcome as the bilingual staff are prepared to deliver an exhilarating time in the mountains of Myoko regardless of language level The meeting point for the start and end of camp will be at Tokyo Station.  the Snow Resort Link has been operating Myoko Snowsports (International Snow Sports School) in Myoko-shi Niigata during Japan’s winter seasons Snow Resort Link opened the English Explorers Summer Camp where you can learn the language through riveting experiences in the natural grounds of Myoko.  10% family and friends discount (referral) Myoko House founder Nathan Eden snowboarded for the first time during a season at Nozawa Onsen in 2017/18. It was a transformative experience and, a little over a year later, he and his wife Akiko set about launching their own accommodation business. They found “the perfect spot to do so” in Myoko, opening Myoko House in 2019 shortly before the onset of pandemic “We were lucky enough to get a good month or two in before the coronavirus took hold of things” explaining that they were able to find out that “what they do works” through guest feedback Nathan and Akiko chose a quiet area chose a quiet area roughly 800 metres from Akakura Kanko Resort “We wanted to host families and couples looking for a quiet retreat as opposed to the noisier Akakura Onsen area There’s plenty of space for kids to make snowmen while their parents sit by the fire and watch them out the big windows.” we do transfers to Akakura Onsen as well as either of the other four main resorts but we also have guests who prefer to walk.” who live on site and run Myoko House year round “We have a guest kitchen onsite and a gyoza/nihonshu bar Akiko has a growing reputation for her handmade gyoza – both traditional style and vegan as well as other specials and creations – and desserts I enjoy trying (and talking) about different types of nihonshu from all over Japan however They are now in the process of renovating the building directly across the street from Myoko House, which they have called Myoko Apartments (“we chose its name in the great Australian tradition of calling things as you see them” It’s home to three self-contained apartments – one of which will be open by this season –  as well as a gym dry room and an extra space that will be used as a co-working office “One thing we noticed during our time in Nozawa was the growing popularity of self-contained accommodation and we always wanted to have both lodge and apartment style if we could.” Myoko Apartments guests may also come across the road to Myoko House for gyoza As Akiko knocks out a pretty mean breakfast it would be remiss of me to suggest anything else than onsite Myoko House breakfast (available to Myoko House guests only) Akiko and I are relatively new to boarding and so we’re totally happy if we can find the time to get out together for the morning We usually just opt for a leisurely morning in and out of the trees at Ikentotaira It’s obviously one of the gentler areas in Myoko but certainly enough fun for us We also like Ike because we get to go see our mates at GoMyoko for lunch Akiko outside Myoko House GoMyoko are based directly below the main lift of Ikenotaira staff are our favourite in Myoko so a great day always involves lunch there The GoMyoko rental shop is also right next door at the end of the carpark so it’s pretty convenient too a perfect afternoon would probably be a quick drive over to Togakushi either for an arvo slide or a walk into the Okusha (upper shrine) if for no other reason than the row of giant cedar trees look even more beautiful in the snow than they do during the green season Either Alpen Blick Landmark Onsen owing to the view of Myoko-san or Hotel Taiko in Akakura Onsen because of the view the opposite way towards Tangram and Madarao Akiko’s gyoza at Myoko House (MH and MA guests only) just down from Kanko gondola is the embodiment of the cliched term “hidden gem” Beers and or nihonshu hopping along the main drag of Akakura Onsen Make sure to take a decent set of gloves and grab a konbini beer for a stroll the street and absorb the atmosphere I hear Myoko House and Myoko Apartments is good 😉 Myoko Festival showcases rich cultural heritage and tradition of the Apatani tribe who mostly live in Apatani Valley or Lower Subansiri district HQs Ziro The festival is celebrated since time immemorial to uphold spirit of togetherness and friendship between various villages of the valley for which they take turns in celebrating the same It is celebrated on a rotational basis by eight villagers when new paddy is sown in the field and the people pray for a good harvest in upcoming months during annual 10-day celebration usually during March 20 to March 30 The festival of positivity and merry-making celebrates the idea of community living to the extent that all houses remain open 24/7 during the festival to welcome any visitor of late rampant use of alcohol in all Tanii traditional ceremonies has become mandatory in Ziro while many well-to-do Taniis are perhaps obsessed with many unnecessary redundant customs Poverty stricken Tanii farmers incur huge expenses during Myoko Festival I have seen myself how a such farmers struggle every three years as all their little income is spent unwittingly in buying beef cashew nuts & cold drinks that swell family budget drastically I would like to recall during last Myoko Festival in Hong village a chartered accountant-cum-World Bank consultant did analysis of expenditures incurred during Myoko His finding was that one third income/saving of an average Tanii household is spent on Myoko every 3rd year on turn throughout his life saving/income of average Tanii families dwindle abysmally reflecting ethnicity social status and nationality the impact of modernity cannot be allowed to sweep away our culture I am deeply convinced that such avoidable drinking-eating bonhomie could be reduced to two days by keeping core values intact through reformation I too feel proud to celebrate Myoko but advocated review way of celebrations The festival comes like a silent mini economic tsunami every 3rd year when poor Taniis drain out their hard earned income to keep prestige of their families I recall my childhood days when a poor Tanii family silently struggled in crisis to bear unnecessary expenses of Myoko And many nouveau riche lavishly host 5-star parties inviting ‘who’s who’ of the district and neighboring districts during these ceremonies by unwittingly demeaning poor Tanii families I agree to this view of some intellectual Apatanis All bustling civilizations/communities/tribes have perished from earth due to obsession of ostrich mentality of not evolving with time and need for progressive survival ethics I hope our ever active community-based organization would ponder seriously and take lead to reform these customs and traditions without losing the core positive values.- If not reformed is a mathematical certainty that common Tanii would always face economic crisis in future (Opinions are personal based on ground zero experiences and observations and based on CA’s analysis)