+ Learn to Ski or Snowboard on Top-quality Powder
Firstly, any visit to Hachimantai in winter wouldn’t be complete without at least one day on the slopes. With four ski areas and a wide variety of slopes, there is something to suit everyone - perfect for young and old, beginner to experienced! What’s more, Hachimantai’s extremely dry powder snow means that when beginners inevitably do tumble, their fall will be cushioned by the incredibly soft powder.
For those wanting to learn the basics or improve their skills, Appi Kogen Ski Resort offers instruction in English (and Chinese on request) as follows:
Children aged 3-9 years can join the specially designed Crayon Shin-chan Kids Ski School (group and individual lessons available), first learning on an indoor slope before moving to the outdoor beginners’ slope.
For those aged 7 years and older, group (weekends and public holidays only) and private lessons are available.
For more information and to book,please see this website.
+ Fun in the Snow
For little ones who aren’t quite ready for skiing or young ones (or the young-at-heart) who just want to play in the snow, check out Hachimantai Resort Panorama Ski Area’s ‘Winterland’.
Located right in front of Hachimantai Mountain Hotel, this dedicated play area is roped off from the regular slopes so that everyone can safely enjoy themselves in the snow. Entry to the area includes use of the snow escalator and various sleds.
Other snow equipment and experiences include banana boats, mini snowmobiles, tandem snowmobile tours, snow rafting, and regular and tree run snow tubing. Please note that fees and operation times for these activities vary and may be affected by weather and slope conditions.
+ Discover Winter in the Forest
Located at the foot of Mt. Iwate, the Iwate Prefectural Citizens’ Forest is a great place to get closer to nature regardless of the season. Seasonal park maps are now available in English allowing you to take a self-guided tour of the grounds while learning about the plants and animals living in the forests. Which animals’ footprints will you spot in the snow?
Snowshoes designed to make it easier to walk in deep snow are available to rent. Even children can learn to walk in snowshoes, meaning those of all ages can enjoy the feeling of fresh powder snow underfoot.
+ Pick and Eat Ripe Strawberries
Winter marks the start of strawberry season in Japan and this year two local facilities are offering ‘pick your own’ experiences.
Saikaen
Local strawberry and flower farm, offering 50-minute ‘all you can pick and eat’ sessions, allowing you to taste the sweetness of ripe, farm-fresh strawberries. In their greenhouses, you can try five different varieties of strawberries including some that are not sold in stores.
Daily, 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Adult: ¥2,400 (incl. tax); Child: ¥1,800; Infant: ¥1,100
Bookings not required, however, it is worth calling ahead: 0195-76-4458, as they may close early depending on availability
3S Village Hachimantai
Friday-Tuesday, 9:30 a.m.-3:10 p.m. with sessions staring on the half hour
Entry fees ¥800~¥2,400 depending on session duration, day and participant age. Free for children under 3 years old.
All information listed was confirmed at the time of publication. No responsibility is taken for changes made by third parties after this time.
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