Let's go on a tree run in Japan! A complete guide to the attractions and safe ski resorts

What is Tree Run?

Tree run is a style of skiing and snowboarding where you can enjoy skiing or snowboarding in an uncompacted snow area that takes advantage of the natural terrain.

Unlike compacted snow and well-maintained courses, you ski while avoiding natural obstacles such as trees and rocks.

The tree run, which takes advantage of the natural terrain, allows you to feel the essence of snowy mountains, making it popular with skiers and snowboarders who seek thrills and excitement.

Difference between tree run and backcountry

"Tree run" and "backcountry" basically have the same meaning, but there are some minor differences.

"Tree run" is a style of skiing that is located within ski resorts or managed areas, and involves skiing on uncompacted snow areas that mainly take advantage of trees and natural terrain.

On the other hand, backcountry skiing and snowboarding generally refers to wild skiing and snowboarding in an environment close to nature, outside of a controlled area such as a ski resort.

Another feature of backcountry skiing is that you climb mountains on your own without using lifts and ski over natural terrain.

Tree run popular background

There are many factors behind the popularity of tree runs.

First, advances in equipment have made it easier to enjoy riding on fresh snow than before, and skiing styles have also diversified.

For ski and snowboard fans looking for thrills and adventure, the appeal of skiing through the beautiful forests of Japan's natural beauty is immeasurable.

In addition, ski resorts are actively promoting tree runs by opening up tree courses and expanding areas, and as a result, you can now enjoy tree runs at many ski resorts in Japan.

The charm of Japanese tree runs

Sliding in the great outdoors of Japan is more than just a sport; you will feel as if you are communicating with nature.

Here we will delve deeper into the charm of Japanese tree runs.

1. Powder snow is gathering

The biggest attraction of tree runs in Japan is the abundance of powder snow that accumulates after snowfall.

Uncompacted snow areas are literally uncompacted, so powder snow stays in abundance in the forest.

The snow that accumulates deeply is protected from wind and sunlight by the dense trees, making it stay powdery for a long time.

Therefore, at tree runs in Japan, you can enjoy runs full of powder everywhere.

By the way, Japanese powder snow is also called "japow" and it attracts ski and snowboard fans from all over the world.

2. The ski resort has a tree run environment.

As if in response to the recent tree run boom, ski resorts in Japan are starting to open up the forests within their ski slopes as tree run courses.

In addition, ski resorts have begun offering tree run courses that were once aimed at advanced skiers, with courses on gentle terrain with fewer trees and shorter distances.The environment has been improved and the barrier to entry has been lowered, so even beginners can try tree runs with confidence. .

3. You can play on terrain unique to Japan

Another point of tree running in Japan is that you can enjoy the unique mountain scenery.

With its unique landscape formed by thousands of years of volcanic activity, it is known as one of the world's top destinations for winter sports.

The diverse natural features created by Japan's topography, such as gliding through quiet forests and circling around poplar and birch trees, will tickle the playful spirit of tree enfants.

Furthermore, the topography and environment of Japan's mountains vary greatly, so you can experience a different tree run in each location.

4. Encounter the breathtaking natural beauty of snow and wild animals

The snow-covered landscape of Japan is incredibly beautiful, and the wild animals you encounter during your tree run make it even more magical.

You'll likely see monkeys roaming near calm, snow-covered mountain streams and on the valley floor.

Furthermore, in the forests of central Honshu, there is a chance to encounter the serow, which was designated as a special national natural monument by the Japanese government in 1955.

Hidden dangers in tree runs

Tree running also involves the following risks:

Be aware of all possible dangers and enjoy tree running in Japan safely, whether you are a beginner or an expert.

How to enjoy tree runs safely in Japan

In order to enjoy tree running safely in Japan, you need to abide by many rules.

Here, we will explain in detail the preparations and measures you can take in advance, as well as the safety measures you should take on the day.

Know that there are basic rules and local rules.

You must understand and abide by the basic rules and local rules set by each ski resort.

Some ski resorts will revoke your lift ticket if you violate the rules.

The main basic rule at many ski resorts is that before a tree run, you are required to submit a ``Climbing Notification'' and ``Climbing Notification'' that include your exact route.

The reason for writing a "climbing notification" or "mountain entry notification" is to make it useful for prompt search and rescue. “Climbing notification” and “mountain entry notification” can be obtained at the counter of each ski resort or online.

In addition, depending on the region or ski resort, the following local rules have been established regarding the use of tree run areas.

[An example of ski resort-specific rules in place during tree runs]

Please research as much as possible about the ski resort's own rules before your trip and prepare accordingly.

Learn about the “self-responsibility area”

“Self-responsible area” refers to the skiing area in the snowy mountains that is beyond the managed area of ​​the ski resort.

Basically, in "self-responsible areas", safety management is not carried out by the ski resort. Therefore, any risks such as distress or accidents that occur in the ``self-responsible area'' are the responsibility of the runner.

You must understand that in the unlikely event of a distress or accident, you will be responsible for all search and rescue costs.

Please enjoy tree running with a sense of responsibility to avoid accidents and accidents.

check the weather

Local snow quality not only varies greatly depending on the season and weather, but can also change throughout the day.

Therefore, it is necessary to accurately understand the conditions, taking into consideration the local season and weather.

Especially on cloudy days or when it snows heavily, visibility can be poor in the forest, so you need to be extremely careful.

Before attempting a tree run, be sure to thoroughly check the weather on the mountain that day and the latest forecast, and predict the route conditions and snow instability and trends.

Understand the topography and geography of the area where you plan to tree run.

On the day of the tree run, always be aware of exactly where you are on the mountain and be careful not to stray too far from the well-maintained tree run course.

You can understand the terrain and geography of a specific ski area in advance by:

[Example of ways to understand Japan's topography and geography in advance]

It is also important that all group members understand and keep in mind the planned tree run route.

Check the level of your friends

If the pre-planned tree run route is not suitable for the physical fitness and skill level of all participants, it may pose a safety risk. Since this is a tree run in a foreign country, be sure to communicate closely with the people you are going with.

prepare the equipment

Always remember to wear a helmet when attempting a tree run. Many ski resorts recommend the following equipment in case of an emergency.

[Equipment recommended to bring]

Don't be overconfident in your own skills

In order to avoid danger, careful action and calm judgment are essential. There are unexpected dangers lurking in the tree run. In addition to carefully skating, you must also be able to skate flexibly and avoid danger when necessary.

Taking classes related to tree running, such as an introductory avalanche safety course or a pre-tree run course, will also give you an opportunity to objectively evaluate your skills. If you feel that your skills are lacking in any way, please consider carefully whether or not to go for a tree run.

Share information with family

Especially when planning a tree run or mountain climbing outside the managed area of ​​a ski resort, it is important to share information not only among participants but also with their families waiting for their return so that they are all on the same page. Be sure to confirm, share, and understand your tree run plans in Japan not only with all your runners, but also with your loved ones.

Feel free to check on-site if you have any questions.

If you have any questions about tree running locally, don't hesitate to ask the local staff or patrol team. Some areas, such as Nozawa Onsen, for example, provide additional information in English about sidecountry and backcountry areas.

Areas in Japan where you can enjoy tree running

The following are the main areas where you can enjoy tree running in Japan.

We will introduce in detail the characteristics of tree runs in each region and the ski resorts you should visit.

Hokkaido

Hokkaido can be called a paradise for tree orchid fans.

In particular, the following areas are famous worldwide.

Niseko is easily accessible from Sapporo and is located near Mt. Yotei, also known as "Hokkaido's Mt. Fuji."

However, depending on your departure point, you may be required to transfer to a domestic flight at an international airport such as Narita or Haneda. There are direct flights from Asia/Pacific to Sapporo, but from Europe there is only a Helsinki flight, which can be quite expensive depending on your departure point. (As of November 2023)

Iwate Prefecture

Iwate Prefecture is known as a hidden gem for tree runs due to its geographical conditions, with Appi Plateau and Getou Plateau being famous. The characteristics of each are as follows.

The ski resorts listed above are generally accessed by Shinkansen, bus, or car, but it may be difficult to access the ski resorts if you are not familiar with Japan's traffic conditions.

Nagano Prefecture

Nagano Prefecture, the site of the 1998 Olympic Games, is the region with the most ski resorts in Japan. Nagano Prefecture, which is located inland and boasts a high altitude in the mountains, offers many ski resorts where you can enjoy japow (Japanese powder snow) and tree runs.

Here are 23 recommended ski resorts in Nagano Prefecture! Insert a link to "Introducing ski resorts for different purposes such as powder snow and tree runs"

Although it may seem difficult to get to because it is located inland, access to Nagano Prefecture is surprisingly convenient. In addition to the Snow Liner express bus, which takes you directly from Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, and Tokyo to the Hakuba area, you can also get there by connecting between the Shinkansen and a local bus.

Niigata Prefecture

Niigata Prefecture also has many ski resorts where you can enjoy tree running, such as the ones below.

The most convenient way to get to Niigata Prefecture is to take a bus that goes directly to the ski resorts for Japanese people, but you can also go by Shinkansen or car.

Also, since Niigata Prefecture is adjacent to Nagano Prefecture, it would be a good idea to go back and forth between the ski resorts in both prefectures.

Gunma Prefecture

Gunma Prefecture, which is close to Tokyo, also has several ski resorts where you can go tree running.

The main ways to access the ski resorts listed above are by train and bus, or by car.

Therefore, it would be suitable for people who are accustomed to Japan.

Gifu Prefecture

Gifu Prefecture's ski resorts are secret spots for tree runs.

The main ways to get to the site are by direct bus (for Japanese people) from Nagoya or Osaka, as well as by car, JR transfer, and route bus.

From the above, it can be said that this is for people who are familiar with Japan.

If you are looking for a tree run, we recommend the Nagano Prefecture area, which you can go to by direct bus.

If you want to enjoy a tree run, we recommend the Nagano Prefecture area, which can be reached by the direct bus ``Snow Liner.''

"Snow Liner" is a high-speed bus that goes directly to ski resorts provided by Japan Youth Travel, which operates the media "MATCHA".

From major international airports such as Narita and Haneda, as well as within Tokyo, you can head to the numerous ski resorts in Nagano Prefecture, where Tree Run is owned, without having to transfer.

Reservations can be easily made through the English-language website, so overseas ski and snowboard fans can use the service with confidence.

If you want to access ski resorts in Nagano Prefecture without any hassle, please check out Snow Liner from the link below.

Click here to reserve the Snow Liner

Enjoy a tree run in Japan this winter!

In this article, we introduced in detail the appeal of tree running in various parts of Japan and how to enjoy it safely.

In the past, it was common to bring skis to climb snowy mountains and enjoy skiing in the natural mountains.

However, now it is easier to access snowy mountains, and ski resorts where you can easily enjoy tree runs are gaining popularity.

In order to have a safe ski/snowboarding trip, please refer to the points introduced this time and enjoy tree running to your heart's content in Japan's beautiful nature.