Kawaba

Kawaba is a high-elevation ski resort in Gunma, about two hours from the Tokyo area, which makes it one of the closest resorts with dry, light snow for the Kanto region. It has about 10 courses and 5 lifts, with a summit around 1,870 m, a vertical drop of about 640 m, and a longest run of about 3,300 m. The terrain leans toward intermediate skiers, and around half the courses are rated intermediate.

Kawaba is known for a mogul course that has helped train national-team skiers, along with three snow parks and an ungroomed area. About 30% of the courses are for beginners, but some of the runs are narrow, so families with very young or first-time skiers may find a wider beginner area at some other resorts easier. Ungroomed powder riding is offered through Off the Piste, five gated ungroomed zones inside the resort: before entering you watch the training video, sign a waiver and rent a Cocoheli locator beacon (¥1,100) at the 7th-floor counter in Kawaba City, then wear the armband and beacon while riding. Entering anywhere other than the gates, or ducking the red ropes, is banned.

The base building, Kawaba City, has restaurants and shops and is known for good food. Next to it is a large multi-level covered car park connected to the base, with toilets and changing rooms on each floor, which is helpful on heavy snow days and when arriving with children. A free shuttle bus runs from Numata Station or Jomo-Kogen Station in the morning and evening, with reservation required, though many visitors come by car.

Official website: Kawaba