REPORT

Thanks to the significant snowfall over the weekend, Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort has opened the Yamabiko A, B, and C courses as of 12/8 (Sun.), meaning that all five courses in the Yamabiko area are now skiable! In addition, the Uenotaira area (pictured) is also open as of today, 12/9 (Mon.). This morning, the frost-covered trees contrasted against the calm skies with patches of blue were absolutely stunning.
[Uenotaira]

The gently-sloping Uenotaira area (pictured) had a well-groomed, moderately soft powder snow surface, and the many beginners and families made for a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The 300-meter-wide, 2-kilometer-long course runs alongside the Uenotaira Four lift, with an additional Family Lane branching off to the right midway (pictured) through. In other news, the 3-kilometer Uenotaira Cross-Country Course will also open to the public on 12/11 (Wed.).
[Uenotaira]

Let’s rewind to the early morning. The Yamabiko area was a breathtaking winter wonderland, with the 25 cm of fresh powder from the previous day pressed into perfectly groomed, moderately soft snow surface. I rode the Yamabiko Four Lift with a skier from Yamanashi, who told me, “I always check your reports! I decided on Nozawa Onsen after seeing the weather forecast. It’s amazing to ski on such great snow so early in the season!”
[Yamabiko Slope・D Course]

Starting from the summit of Mt. Kenashi (1,650m), I enjoyed a long run on the 1.3-kilometer Yamabiko A Course (pictured). The fresh powder on the ungroomed B Course was tracked out quickly by eager skiers and snowboarders. Also, don’t forget that next Sunday,12/15, is “Kids Ski’ Day,” when lift tickets are free for all children junior high school age and younger!
[Yamabiko Slope・A Course]

[Nozawa Onsen Details on 12/4 (Mon)]
*Avaiiable Courses … Yamabiko Area A, B, C, D, E, Uenotaira
*Available Lifts … Nagasaka Gondola (8:30 -), Yamabiko No.2 Four(8:40 -), Yamabiko Four, Uenodaira Four
*Fees … Adult JPY5,300, Senior JPY4,200, Under 15 y/o JPY2,900 (Until 12/20)

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reported by Snownavi