Eliot Cochrane has lived in Japan's Iwate Prefecture for 10 years, where he volunteers with his local ski club and supports regional ski events.
Hajimemashite to the readers of Ski Asia! I’m Eliot Cochrane, and I’ll be sharing insights on skiing in the Tohoku area this season. Tohoku offers incredible snow, unique resorts, and a rich, diverse culture across its prefectures.
I grew up skiing in Northeastern America from the age of four, with winters spent on the slopes. Skiing has always been a central topic in my family, and it still is today. My early skiing experiences shaped my style, and among Ski Asia’s contributors, I’m likely the most front-side focused, thanks to the boilerplate slopes of northeastern America.
When I moved to Japan nearly a decade ago, I quickly became a regular at a local sushi restaurant, where I was introduced to the local ski club. With some old gear shipped from home and a few second-hand finds, my first season in Iwate began, and I’ve been skiing here ever since.
Now, after ten years in Iwate, I’m excited to share some of my favoured resorts and the types of skis I bring to each. Let’s dive in.
Appi Kogen Ski Resort
Appi Kogen Ski Resort, the largest in Iwate Prefecture, stands out among Hachimantai City’s many ski options. With English-speaking staff, ample accommodations, and reliable snowfall from early season which is skiable until May, it caters to everyone from families to powder enthusiasts. The resort boasts the most skiable terrain in Iwate, with wide, well-groomed runs that allow skiers of all levels to enjoy the mountain together.
For powder seekers, Appi’s tree skiing off the main gondola offers a thrilling mix of terrain. For more advanced off-piste adventures, the exclusive Nishimori area, accessible only to Black Pass holders by snowcat, remains largely untouched throughout the season.
Ski Choice: Nordica Dobermann GSR EVO EDT (2016)
182cm – 115/71/99.5 (19.5m)
Why?
Appi Kogen Ski Resort has lots of wide, perfectly groomed trails, which invite skiers to carve sweeping turns on fresh corduroy in the mornings. A medium-radius ski like the Nordica GSR excels here because these runs allow you to really get some wind in your face. With so much terrain available, there’s room to let longer skis like these perform at their best. Appi’s consistent snow and ideal grooming make it the perfect match for skis that like a little space to let free.
Hachimantai Resort Panorama
Hachimantai Resort offers two distinct ski areas: Panorama and Shimokura, both accessible with a shared lift ticket and shuttle service. Shimokura is designed with challenging terrain, including newly expanded tree skiing, making it an enticing choice for experienced skiers and backcountry enthusiasts looking for adventure. Meanwhile, Panorama is designed with families and beginners in mind, featuring gentle slopes and a variety of family-friendly activities to ensure an enjoyable day on the mountain for all.
Panorama’s wide, forgiving terrain is perfect for those learning to ski or those who prefer a more relaxed day on the slopes. The main super-quad lift efficiently whisks skiers up the hill, granting quick access to expansive areas where they can explore at a leisurely pace.
Ski Choice: HEAD WCR e.SL FIS RD (2024)
165cm – 120/67/103 (12.5m)
Why?
Hachimantai Resort Panorama is great for families and beginners, which also means that there aren’t any particularly steep areas. You don’t need long skis or high speeds here; instead, you can focus on control and finesse, making the lively, responsive nature of short skis ideal for the area’s mellow, beginner-friendly runs.
Geto Kogen Resort
Geto Kogen is famous for having the most snowfall in Tohoku, with storms hitting almost weekly from November to February. This consistent accumulation transforms the resort into a powder paradise, drawing skiers and snowboarders from near and far. The resort’s deep powder and ungroomed runs make it a haven for powder hounds, while its steep slopes add an adrenaline rush that seasoned skiers crave. Unlike the more crowded resorts in Hokkaido, Geto Kogen offers a more intimate experience with untracked snow and minimal competition for lifts or fresh powder.
The unique terrain features a mix of steep, challenging runs and gentle slopes, catering to a variety of skill levels. Intermediate skiers can enjoy wide-open trails, while advanced skiers can seek out hidden stashes of powder in the trees. The atmosphere is relaxed, allowing you to take your time and savor the exhilarating experience of skiing in deep snow. If you’re really after “Japow,” then Geto Kogen Ski Resort is an essential stop on your journey through Tohoku.
Ski Choice: Rossignol Blackops Sender Ti (2021)
187cm – 137/106/128 (21m)
Why?
Geto Kogen’s main draw is its powder, with frequent fresh snowfall and plenty of ungroomed terrain. Whether you’re blasting through fresh powder or tackling chopped-up snow later in the day, the ski’s versatility helps you make the most of the mountain. Geto’s abundant snowfall demands a ski that can navigate powder but also handle whatever conditions arise after a big storm.
The Big Picture
Skiing in Tohoku offers an authentic experience away from Japan’s crowded resorts. Whether it’s carving groomers at Appi Kogen, enjoying family-friendly slopes at Hachimantai, or chasing deep powder at Geto Kogen, the diverse terrain accommodates any ski choice. This region is perfect for anyone looking to explore and enjoy the beauty of Japan’s winter landscapes.
After nearly a decade of skiing these slopes, I can confidently say there is much more to discover. Keep an eye on Ski Asia for insider tips and guides to Tohoku’s hidden gems. These resorts truly deserve a spot on your next ski itinerary.
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