[Steeps at Shigakogen]

Thanks for that snowjunky and tubby. Yep just loving the pow but treating the place with respect

 

Think I will leave the monkeys and Shigakogen nightlife to pie-eater.

 

 

[Steeps at Shigakogen]

Yoketeyama at 2300m must have choice snow plus with some black runs up there as well should be worth the trip. Hell I was getting my jollies doing lift lines on Hakuba yesterday in wet snow

[Steeps at Shigakogen]

Thanks for the comments. I had read that report a while back after Shigakogen, Nozawaonsen and Hakuba had been recommended to me as must sees on a first trip to Japan.

 

I've got a week here with an awesome looking weather forecast ahead plus I ski, opening up the whole area. I'm trying to get a handle on skiing powder and find that a bit of vert seems to help. Must be something out there to keep me going.

 

 

 

 

[Steeps at Shigakogen]

You have been told this after choosing it and arriving?!

 

But, from what I remember the Yakbitaiyama area was the funnest. It's not known for the steep slopes though. It's more a monkey and nightlife place.

 

Have fun!

 

 

What? 21 ski resorts, 71 lifts, promoted as the largest ski area in Japan and no steeps/tree runs?

[Steeps at Shigakogen]

Hi,

 

Ive arrived at Shigakogen and have been told that the terrain isnt very steep. Any ideas where there is some challenging terrain.

 

Thanks.

[General advise sought.]

Thanks MIJ,

 

Will I get to Nozawa before my skis? If so, I may as well take them with me unless its too much hassle on the trains

[General advise sought.]

Merry Xmas all,

 

My first trip to Japan starts early February and I will spend a week at Nozawa then Hakuba then Shiga Kogen.

 

Im an advanced skier in NZ conditions and prefer the steeps and off piste. Had a taste of powder this winter in NZ and have decided to check out Japan with a pair of fats, the main objective being to master powder. Got a few questions:

 

1. I arrive Narita late Sunday afternoon, guessing I should catch a train to Tokyo Station and find a bed their after 14 hours travel. Early start the next day and catch the bullet train to Nozawa and maybe get an afternoon in - will it be a problem if I leave my luggage with a courier and catch the train into Tokyo then onto Nozawa with skis?

 

2. Where are the best off piste/tree runs in the resorts near where I will be staying? Will be skiing alone so will be safety conscious - I guess that when its dumping or dumps overnight the groomers/side of the trails will be a good start but where do I go when its all tracked out? Ive been reading the recent thread about rope ducking and I reckon unless Im with someone with local knowledge best avoid this.

 

3. If I go with a backcountry guide, when is the best time to sign up - tail end/next day after a significant snow fall?

 

4. Any clues if it is best to change money in NZ or Japan?

 

Thanks.

 

PS Im getting amped keeping up with the big regular snowfalls reported on SJ.