Well, it’s official………..Japan is now the number one holiday destination for Australians. As an Australian who has been making the annual pilgrimage to ride the picture perfect fluffy powder that Japan is renowned for, its not really a surprise that everyone is in on the secret.
Ski Japan – 10 mountains to choose from
With over 600 snow resorts to choose from, how do you pick the perfect destination for you and your family. Some things to consider. Are you looking for the ultimate powder snow and happy to compromise on having the cultural side. Are you seeking a more cultural experience and happy to compromise on the snow? Myoko Kogen is the perfect base to explore from, a location to bring friends or family to, with a mountain nearby to suit everyone and no compromises to make.
With ten mountains in close proximity, Myoko Kogen is the perfect location to base yourself for an unforgettable trip to Japan. The main street has a traditional feel and is always a hive of activity with a number of restaurants, bars and izakayas to choose from. A visit to Myoko is not complete without sampling one of the delicious crepes on the main street. The vibe is low key and there is not as much hustle and bustle as some of the bigger resorts. It is very family friendly.
Located 3 hours from Tokyo
Myoko Kogen is located less than three hours by train from Tokyo and receives some of the highest snowfall in Japan, averaging between 14-16 metres on average. Getting here is easy, either by bullet train and then a small local train into Myoko Kogen or jumping on a bus that drops you off on the main street of town.
Doesn’t matter if you are a powder junkie or into long groomed coudouroy cruisers or if park is more your thing. There is something for everyone at Myoko.
Nearby ski resorts
If you want something local that it within 15 minutes drive of the main street of Akakura Onsen, you can’t go past these four resorts.
Suginohara is one of the big 4 on the Mount Myoko pass and has the longest run in Japan, it is approximately 8.5 kilometres long (trust me, the thigh burn is real) and on a clear day, has views to Mount Fuji. A big bonus for families is that kids under 13 ski free.
Ikenotaira is a small ski resort located between Suginohara and Akakura Kanko. It is ideal for beginners and intermediates with wide trails and some entry level tree glades.
If steep and deep is more your thing, Akakura Onsen has the honour of the steepest run in Japan, known as “The Wall” at 38 degrees. Definitely not for the faint hearted. It also caters well to beginners and intermediates with lots of fun runs for the whole family.
If it is good enough for the Imperial Royal family, it is good enough for me. Akakura Kanko is one of the oldest ski resorts in Japan (operating since 1937) and offering amazing views from the Sea of Japan through to Lake Nojiri on a clear day. Both Akakura Onsen and Akakura Kanko can be enjoyed on a joint ticket, giving you the best of both worlds.
Want more information of skiing in and around Myoko? Contact us today, your next ski adventure awaits.
