Myoko Kogen
Myoko Kogen Japan
Myoko Kogen is the perfect ski area for powderhounds. It scores really highly on the pow-dometer thanks to a whopping 13 metres of pow per season on average. And unlike some other Honshu ski resorts, Myoko does not prohibit off-piste and tree skiing. Myoko is freeriding nirvana!
Myoko Kogen is also great for those looking for an authentic Japanese experience. It is a far cry from one of those glitzy bubble era Japan ski resorts. Founded in the 1930s, Myoko is particularly rich in history, traditional Japanese culture, and the area has lots of unadulterated onsens.
Myokokogen Ski and Snowboard Terrain
The Myoko area is made up of 10 different ski resorts that are largely linked together only by shuttle bus. The main ski area is Myoko Akakura which is made up of two resorts side by side; Akakura Kanko ski resort and Akakura Onsen. Suginohara ski resort features super long cruisy groomers, Seki Onsen is renowned for steep tree skiing, Ikenotaira Onsen has good freestyle fun, and family friendly slopes can be found at Kyukamura and Myoko Ski Park.
There’s something for everyone across the ski resorts although Myoko Kogen is most well known amongst powderhounds for the steep treed slopes, off-piste riding and long vertical. Myoko also has lots of backcountry opportunities, and guided backcountry tours are available. Of course Myoko Kogen is also famed for the abundant snow which results from its proximity to the Sea of Japan.
Where is Myoko Kogen Ski Resort?
Myoko Kogen is located one hour north of Nagano in the Niigata prefecture in the heart of the Joshinetsu National Park. From Tokyo the best way to get there is to take the Nagano Shinkansen (bullet train) to Nagano (approx 100 minutes), then the Shinetsu train line to Myoko Kogen Station. The ski villages are approximately 10 minutes from the station via bus or taxi.
Myoko Kogen Accommodation
“Myoko” is the town in the valley near Myokokogen Station, but many people stay in one of the ski villages up at the base of the ski resorts. Akakura Onsen is generally the most popular village to stay because it offers good access to the best ski resorts, and has the largest number of bars and restaurants. Some powderhounds stay at Seki Onsen, a small village with a few pensions and restaurants.
Myoko Kogen accommodation varies from traditional pensions, ryokans and lodges, to more European style hotels.
Facilities, Activities & Nightlife
Even though Myoko Kogen has a traditional Japanese vibe, the facilities are reasonably well set up for Westerners and families, including English speaking ski school and day care.
The mandatory après activity is to take a soak in one of the many onsens, which range from hotel based onsens to delightful outdoor hot springs that are surrounded by forests or delightful views. Myoko Kogen also provides easy access to some culturally interesting side trips.
Myoko is not a place with an overly vibrant nightlife, but there are lots of small bars and traditional restaurants where you can partake in some kanpai.
Culture and Language
Whilst Myoko Kogen is a reasonably high profile Japanese ski area, it thankfully hasn’t been ruined by an Australian invasion! There is a distinct lack of international visitors, particularly if you venture away from Akakura, so plenty of the “real Japan” remains.
There are enough English signs around town to make life easy, but don’t expect much English signage within the ski areas. Keep a close eye on your trail map if you’re nervous about inadvertently ending up on a black run! About half of the restaurants and izakaya (Japanese bars) have English menus, and only a handful of the staff at restaurants, accommodations and shops speak a little Engrish. Pack your phrasebook or download a language app to your phone.
Japanese people are incredibly polite and friendly, but the Myoko Kogen locals in particular seem to exude major affability. Smiles abound and most service staff bend over backwards with hospitality.
Why Ski or Snowboard at Myoko Kogen?
This is a must do for powderhounds considering the quantity of snow and the opportunity to get off-piste. Myoko Kogen is also the place to visit if Japanese culture is high on your list. The locals obviously don’t wear a kimono out powder skiing, but Myoko Kogen is still a great place for cultural immersion.