REPORT

HAKUBA PARADISE SLALOM, which is the first round of the NORTH ALPS BANKED SLALOM, Japan’s only banked slalom series, was held from Iwatake’s South Slope down to the former Hilltop Course! I spoke with a member of the event staff who shared, “We’re so glad the weather is perfect for the competition, and with so much snow this year, we were able to build a proper course.”
[South Slope]

After the opening ceremony, a special pre-run took place around 9:30 a.m. featuring two ski patrol members, Kentaro Miyawaki from SECRET FORT (pictured), and event producer Noboru Konno, in that order. The competition then kicked off with competitors in the boys’ and girls’ elementary school student categories. Despite their young age, the racers impressed the crowd with their fast and powerful runs, drawing cheers from spectators.
[South Slope]

With warm, sunny skies and occasional strong winds from the east, the South Slope (pictured) started off the day with a moderately soft, groomed granular snow surface. The Sawa Course had slushy granular snow, while the Sunny Valley Course featured a moderately firm, groomed granular base that became progressively softer as I descended.
[South Slope]

I had a chat with some diggers from the IWATAKE SNOW PARK (pictured) who commented, “Tomorrow, we’re hosting an event at the special park up top. It’s free for everyone, so come join us! The park will remain open until the resort’s final day on 3/30 (Sun.).” This morning, all park elements were once again in fantastic shape.
[South Slope]

　　　 　
[Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field Details on 3/22 (Sat.)]
*All Courses are OPEN (Except for North, VIEW A & B, SONEZAWA)
*Available Lifts … Gondola (8:00-), and totally 6 lifts.
*Fees … Spring Season Discount Adult JPY5,000, 6-12 y/o JPY2,500)
　
*Printable Rental Discount Coupons!
Carving Ski・Snowboard 1-Day Rental Set JPY3,000 / Outerwear JPY2,500!
Carving Ski・Snowboard High Performance Model Rental JPY500 OFF!
Kid’s Ski・Snowboard 1-Day Rental Set JPY2,500 / Outerwear JPY1,500!

*Request for the original data of our photographs

reported by Snownavi