Japan’s Outdoor Adventure Capital
Summer, Winter, Fall or Spring Minakami is fast becoming recognised as Japan’s premier adventure sports destination both locally and internationally.
Just a short hop from Tokyo station on the bullet train Minakami is naturally blessed with steep, rugged mountains, fast flowing rivers and an abundance of powder snow. Spending an action-packed day in Minakami it is easy to see why it is the destination of choice for adventure thrill-seekers looking to escape the confines of daily life in the city.
WINTER
As the cold winter winds sweep down from Siberia they collide with Tanigawa mountain range and provide Minakami with consistent fresh powder snow from mid-December through to late-March.
Although not as well-known for its ski fields as it’s neighbours (Nigata to the West and Nagano to the south) it benefits from the same amount of snowfall and its anonymity is Minakami’s greatest asset providing those in the know with the least populated ski-fields and argueably the best untouched powder snow in all of Japan.
The Minakami area has 9 ski-fields in total with Norn, Houdaigi and Okutone the largest and most popular and a number of smaller slopes catering to families. But Minakami is perhaps most famous for its easy access to superb backcountry skiing and snowboarding around the Tenjindaira ski field.
Resorts Links (English sites only)
Norn
Hodaigi
A short hike up offers a variety of challenging deep-powder runs guaranteed to put a smile on your face. An abundance of qualified and experienced English speaking guides to ensure your safety makes Minakami a must stop for anyone looking for the ultimate Japanese ski experience.
If neither skiing nor snowboarding is your thing then another great option in the winter months is snowshoeing, a guided tour into a white winter wonderland of glaciers, frozen waterfalls and expansive panoramas giving you a whole new perspective, and challenging your preconceptions of Japan.
Snow Japan
A comprehensive English guide to ski fields in the Minakami area
Backcountry Tours
Introductory and Intermediate backcountry ski and snowboard tours
Escape the crowded slopes and experience the freedom of the mountains!
Learn the basics of safe backcountry riding and equipment use from our professional guides.Take in spectacular mountain views while hiking and riding through some of Japan’s best powder snow.
12,000 yen (includes guide, lunch and photos)
Mid Jan - Late March
Snowshoe
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Japan’s Winter wonderland. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic mountain views while touring through pristine native Japanese beech forests and sprawling (spacious) glaciers. Journey to translucent frozen wateralls and behold naturally contoured ice statues within hidden caves. Refresh your body with the taste of the crisp mountain air.
Half-day and full-day tours 5,000 - 9,000 yen (includes guide, snowshoe set, lunch/snack and photos)
Late Dec - Early April
Snowmobile
Explore the mounatin terrain around Minakami in a very dynamic way. High powered snowmobiles provides access to some amazing areas of the Minakami backcountry with spectacular panoramic views of the Tanigawa Range and Mt Hotaka.
A professional guide will teach you the techniques to master the snow mobile and help you navigate the undulating terrain.
Half day and full day tours 9,000 - 18,000 yen (includes snowmobile, insurnace, snack/lunch)
Early Jan - late March
SUMMER
In Summer Minakami is a hive of action, with a huge variety of outdoor activities and adventures available. The mountains and hillsides are filled with lush green colors and the town is comes alive with many festivals. Minakami is a lot cooler than Tokyo in mid Summer, even so the local swimming holes on the Tone and Yubiso Rivers are very popular.
Summer adventures
Downhill Mountain biking
Enjoy the many trails that are cut into the hillsides and mountains around Minakami many lakes and rivers. A greta way to explore the town and surrounding nature.
Canyoning
One of the freshest new dynamic sports in Japan, canyoning is a truely unique way to experience Minakami’s nature. There are many different levels of courses so that it can be enjoyed by both families and thrill seekers alike. A great way to escape the heat of Summer!
Whitewater rafting
Although the water is typically low during the Summer months rafting is still a great way to get away from the heat and intot he refreshing water of the Tone River.
Bungy Jumping
Minakami is home to Japan’s only bridge bungy jump, which at 42 meters is a real rush. Challenge yourself today!
Paragliding
Learn how to fly with a half day paraglider lesson or take to the skies strapped to a professional instructor. Incredible panoramic views of the Tanigawa Range.
Canoe and Kayak
Experience the peace and tranquility of Minakami’s wilderness as you explore the many lakes of upper Minakami in a canadian canoe or kayak.
Hiking
Hike the Summit of Mt Tanigawa or do an overninght around the Tanigawa Range. There are many different lenght trails with varying difficulty to choose from.
Summer attractions and Events
Hotaru (Fireflies)
During the early Summer (Mid June - Late July) many fireflies may be observed on the walking trail at the JomoKogen area of Minakami. This is a sign of the pristine nature that has been preserved in this region. There is also a Hotaru Festival that takes place every year around this time.
