Powder snow, a type of snow which is dry and powdery. Because it’s very soft and powdery, you can feel like floating on the waves or more like on the clouds when you ride. It provides a completely different sensation compared with groomed slopes. Many people become fun of powder snow once they ride it. People call powder snow in Japan “JAPOW” with their fascination for powder.
Shiga Kogen is one of the highest ski resorts in Japan and it is located inland area surrounded by mountains.
First, cold winter winds from the Sea of Japan hit the mountain ranges, bringing heavy, wet snowfall. As these winds reach Shiga Kogen, they transform into dry, light powder snow. This unique altitude and inland climate create some of the finest quality powder snow in the region.
To fully enjoy powder snow, we recommend you prepare proper equipment designed for powder snow. If not, you may lose your speed or be stuck in deep snow.
【 Recommended slopes for powder snow lovers! 】
Recommended Slope #1: Kumanoyu, Yokoteyama, Shibutoge area
This area is a hidden gem of powder snow!
Kumanoyu ski resort forms like an amphitheater. Because of this shape, their slopes can easily accumulate much quantity of snow and especially 2nd slope, 3rd A course and mogul course become a powder snow paradise!
Yokoteyama and Shibutoge Ski Resorts are found at the highest altitude area in Shiga Kogen. You will also enjoy powder snow with great scenery on a good sunny day!
Recommended Slope #2: Terakoya Ski Area
LIPS course of Terakoya Ski Resort in Central area is the highest slope in the central area. This slope is for intermediate level and 100% covered with natural snow. Enjoy your ride with a nice view of Mt. Iwasuge.
The Perfecter course at Ichinose Family Ski Area, the Olympic course at Higashidateyama Ski Area, and the World Cup course at Nishidateyama Ski Area may remain ungroomed depending on the snow conditions from the previous night.
Recommended Slope #3: Okushiga Kogen and Yakebitaiyama area
Especially these areas are known for having much quantity of snowfall. In Yakebitaiyama Ski Area, they provide several ungroomed slopes such as Yakebi wall, Yakebi valley, Middle course, and Giant slalom course.
Yakebi wall has a maximum angle of 39 degrees and average of 32 degrees, it would be a nice try for expert riders!
For more details and usage rules:
https://www.princehotels.com/en/ski/shiga_kogen/index.html
https://www.princehotels.com/shiga/experience/usage-rules/
YAKEBI COAST (C4) is newly open for powder snow lovers!
This course is characterized by the longest and most direct layout among the powder courses.
Opening Hours: 9:30 A.M. – 12:00 Noon (approx.)
Maximum Slope: 31 degrees
Length: 893 meters
Course Width: Up to 30 meters
Okushiga Kogen ski resort also provides some ungroomed slopes filled with powder snow. For example, Kumaotoshi course is quite narrow and the steepest slope in this resort. Perfect for expert skiers and snowboarders!
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