Tsugaike
Tsugaike is actually situated in Otari Village, the next village over to the north, but it is fairly easy to reach by bus from the lodge and is well worth a visit.
- Lifts: 26
- Runs: 40% Beginner 40% Intermediate 20% Expert
- Longest run: 8km
- Steepest run: 35
- Elevation: Top 1700m Bottom 730m
- Night skiing: Yes
From the lodge, it is a 20-minute bus ride (500 yen) or a 15-minute taxi ride (3,000 yen).
The top half of the resort is situated in a National Park, and the environment is pristine with beautiful silver birches that sparkle when covered in fresh snow. The mountain offers a variety of runs for all levels, and there is a village at the bottom with bars, restaurants, and shops to explore.
Beginners
Tsugaike has probably the best beginner area in the valley, with an almost kilometer-wide run serviced by no less than 10 lifts. The lower end of the run finishes in nursery areas surrounded by restaurants and cafes.
Intermediates
This is another great mountain for intermediates, featuring long, swooping trails that lead all the way from the top of the mountain down to the mid and base stations.
Experts
The run directly down the ridgeline to the mid-station is a thigh-burner, and Tsugaike also has some of the best in-bounds powder riding in the Hakuba Valley if you know where to look.
Freestyle
Tsugaike boasts a decent halfpipe and a selection of jumps which are ideal for intermediate jibbers.
Backcountry
After Happo and Goryu/47, Tsugaike has the best backcountry in the valley. Fantastic, steep, and long descents can be made from Hiyodori and Tengu-para down to either Tsugaike or Norikura. For a much longer expedition starting in March, you can hike to Tengu-para and ski down Nakasawa to Renge Onsen in Niigata Prefecture.
Alternatively, you can hike to Norikura Dake and ski down the Nakasawa valley or the ridgeline to the west. It is highly recommended that you go with a guide (Evergreen Outdoor Centre, just around the corner from us, offers this service) or be fully versed in avalanche theory. Always carry a shovel, probe, and beacon, and ride with friends who carry the same if you venture into the backcountry.