Jump in: Ski the deepest
powder snow in Nagano
powder snow in Nagano
With dynamic runs that take advantage of the natural terrain, Tangram Ski Circus is connected to the adjacent Madarao Kogen Ski Resort. Purchase of a Mountain Pass gives you access to all 30 trails extending across both areas. There is a well-equipped kids park, a terrain park, and terrific snow activities like snowmobiling and snow rafting. From family-oriented trails to powder runs through the trees that follow the natural wooded terrain, there is something for every skill level from beginner to advanced. Those who do not ride, or want to take a long break, Nojiriko Terrace is a good place to visit, with its easy lift access. The café gives visitors a majestic mountain view, as well as a good cup of coffee. A shuttle bus is available that connects Tangram Ski Circus with the nearby Myoko Akakura ski area. When staying in Shinanomachi, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding across a broad area including Kurohime, Madarao, and Myoko.
Some of the region’s best cross-country skiing courses are found in the Fairy Tale Forest Snow Wave, located next to Kurohime Kogen Snow Park, including a course offering spectacular views of Mt. Kurohime and Mt. Myoko, and a course that gently meanders through quiet forests, just to name two. Rental services and changing rooms are of course available for your convenience.
| Available | December to March |
| Fees | From 1,500 yen per half-day |
Step into a unique, snow-covered world, either on snowshoes or skis. Some of these forest areas are only accessible in the winter, when deep snow covers the low lying bush and scrub, leaving only towering trees, with the only signs of life being animal footsteps dotted around the beautiful white carpet. The best way to enjoy this wonderland is with an experienced guide, who has intricate knowledge of the terrain, and plant and animal life, as well as the best vantage points along the way, and will craft a makeshift table out of the snow on which the group will be served lunch.
| Available | December to April |
| Required time | From a half-day |
Lake Nojiri is alive with fishermen even in the winter months! Why not try one of the favorite winter local pastimes, smelt fishing, on the comfort of a heated houseboat! Rental fishing gear and bait are available, and you are free to bring your own food and drink. Everyone is welcome, from small to big groups, from kids to the elderly. A trip isn’t complete without a unique experience like this!
| Available | November to March |
Snowmobiling is available at both Tangram Ski Circus and Kurohime Kogen Snow Park. For beginners, Tangram Ski Circus has a Yamaha Licence Acquisition course to obtain a snowmobile license, after which you are free to join a long forest course tour.
| Available | December to March |
Snow rafting involves an inflatable raft being towed around a course at high speed by a snowmobile. It’s a safe, yet thrilling experience, and can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. Young children must be accompanied by an adult.
| Available | December to March |
