Japan is blessed with some of the some the world's best snow. With most of the country dominated with mountain ranges and add hundreds of ski resort and easy access, snowboarding in Japan is my favorite winter escape.
Here is a guide to one of my regular weekend escapes: Tenjindaira in Minakami, Gumma
=The resort= Tenjindaira ski is regularly ranked in the top 5 Japanese resorts for snow depth The resort itself is really small with only three lifts, but a TON of powder runs to be found for those willing to explore. It is not uncommon to be graced with 2-3 meters of fresh powder overnight and untracked lines in the morning. The resort starts at the Tanigawadake Tenjindaira ropeway and takes you 2,300 meters up to the first chair lifts. Advanced and backcountry runs will take you back down to the gondola, but for the beginner there are 2 easier runs on top and an easy gondola ride back to the parking lot. Like most small resorts in Japan it is a bargain compared to resorts around the world (3,500 full day/ 2,500 half day). There are rentals for everything there (clothes, boots, board, ski's, etc). Here are some more information about the resort: Snow Japan Tanigawadake Homepage (Japanese) |
=Getting there= From Tokyo the best option is to take the train. The closest station is Doai and it's about a 20 minute walk to the resort. WARNING - if you take the local train from Minakami to Doai be prepared to walk the 484 steps from the underground platform to street The shinkansen is around 3 hours and you avoid the stairs. The local is nearly 4 hours and although very affordable and can be a bit inncovenient. It's best to check your local train times on sites like: Hyperdia Jourdan Google Maps |
=Where to Stay=
Tenjin Lodge is international is located closest to the lifts at Tenjindaira ski resort with the ability to ski-in for those adventurous enough. Tenjin is regularly ranked in the top 5 Japanese resorts for snow depth and your innkeeper often has to exit through the front windows to clear snow before you tap that Japanese powder. Tenjin Lodge also arranges daily transfers to Houdaigi (best family and beginner resort) and many of Minakami's other 10 resorts.
The friendly international staff can help with all of your needs, from finding the best powder lines, to local restaurants and hot springs. After your day on the mountain, kick back at the Moon Bear Bar and Restaurant with drinks and hearty Winter foods like stewed beef with roast potatoes, Italian pastas or or even a snow BBQ.
Pick ups and drop offs to train stations can also be arranged.
For reservations and rates please visit the Tenjin Lodge Home Page
Tenjin Lodge is international is located closest to the lifts at Tenjindaira ski resort with the ability to ski-in for those adventurous enough. Tenjin is regularly ranked in the top 5 Japanese resorts for snow depth and your innkeeper often has to exit through the front windows to clear snow before you tap that Japanese powder. Tenjin Lodge also arranges daily transfers to Houdaigi (best family and beginner resort) and many of Minakami's other 10 resorts.
The friendly international staff can help with all of your needs, from finding the best powder lines, to local restaurants and hot springs. After your day on the mountain, kick back at the Moon Bear Bar and Restaurant with drinks and hearty Winter foods like stewed beef with roast potatoes, Italian pastas or or even a snow BBQ.
Pick ups and drop offs to train stations can also be arranged.
For reservations and rates please visit the Tenjin Lodge Home Page