HODAIGI SKI RESORT

Make the Most of Kawaba: Powder Experiences & Resort Extras

Kawaba is known for its super-dry powder, and the resort offers several extras that pair well with a private lesson. Reservations, availability and prices for these options are handled by Kawaba Ski Resort, so please check the official page for each one before you go.

OFF THE PISTE: Powder-Only Attraction Course

OFF THE PISTE is a non-groomed, powder-only attraction course with five entry gates inside the resort, created so more guests can experience Kawaba’s famous super-dry powder snow. To use it you need to complete a short check-in at the Mountaineering Counter on the 7th floor:

• Before you visit: watch the required training video on the official page.

• Reception: go to the Mountaineering Counter on the 7th floor and sign the agreement.

• Safety gear: rent a COCOHELI search transmitter (members can show their membership card). You then receive your registration card and the armband that allows entry to the area.

• On the snow: enter only through the designated gates, wearing the armband and COCOHELI at all times. Return both to the counter when you finish.

Entering over the red ropes is not allowed, and the area is skied at your own risk. Any rescue is charged separately. OFF THE PISTE official page (Japanese)

First Track Snowcat Service

Ride a snowcat to the summit before the resort opens and have the untouched slopes to yourself. Departures are at 7:40 on weekdays and 7:10 on weekends and national holidays, and punctuality is required. First Track can be booked on its own or together with a 1-day lift ticket, and groups of up to 13 can charge a whole snowcat (breakfast tickets included, enquire with the resort in advance). Individual places are booked online. First Track official page (Japanese)

POWDER LOUNGE

A premium lounge in the main building with a dedicated lounge area, cloakroom service and other premium services. Reservation is required. Kawaba also offers private rest rooms that can be reserved for the day, which suit families and groups. Facilities (Japanese)

Premium Rentals

Kawaba’s Premium Rentals put powder-shaped and freeride boards in the rental fleet, so beginners and intermediates can try shapes they would not normally find at a rental shop. Brands include Gentemstick, TJ Brand, Jones, Lib Tech, Burton and more, with Step On bindings and boots also available. Premium Rentals are collected at Murasaki Sports on the 7th floor of Kawaba City. The standard rental station offers well-known brands, changing rooms next to the rental area and a cheaper online pre-payment option when you apply by the day before. Rental official page (Japanese)

Getting Around & Facilities

• Free multi-storey parking next to the slopes (1,800 spaces).

• Free daily winter shuttle bus between the roadside station “Kawaba Denen Plaza” and the resort, helpful if you are not confident driving on icy roads.

• Restaurants inside the base building serve Japanese, Chinese and Western food, with vegan and halal menus available.

• Free Wi-Fi on the 7th and 8th floors of Kawaba City.

Kawaba Ski Resort official page (English)