Nestled in the mountains of Akita, Akita Hachimantai Ski Resort is usually one of the first ski areas to open in Tohoku. By mid-November, enthusiastic skiers and snowboarders are eager to hit the slopes and make their first runs of the season. For those dedicated to winter sports, these early weeks are a chance to enjoy fresh snow and reconnect with the mountain.
Looking up the ski slopes at Akita Hachimantai. Image: Eliot Cochrane
As the ski season progresses and nearby resorts begin to open, Akita Hachimantai experiences a calmer atmosphere. From late December through early March, the resort often operates on weekends only. Nonetheless, this quiet time allows visitors to enjoy uncrowded runs and wide-open spaces, leaving a more intimate skiing experience for those who make the adventure.
View from the top looking down at Akita Hachimantai. Image: Eliot Cochrane
With the arrival of spring, the resort sees a shift in visitors again. Longer days and excellent conditions for corn snow attract backcountry skiers, snowboarders, and snowshoers, eager to explore the natural terrain surrounding Mt. Hachimantai. As winter draws to a close, Akita Hachimantai offers a unique opportunity to take advantage of the final days of the season.
Weather and Snow Conditions
Snow usually starts falling in the Hachimantai region by late October, and it keeps piling up through November. By the end of that month or early December, there’s typically enough coverage to kick off the season. The base of the mountain can exceed two metres of snow by late February, and there’s often even more higher up.
Snowboarder hitting some light powder at Akita Hachimantai. Image: Eliot Cochrane
The snow here tends to be light and dry, especially in December and January, thanks to the cold inland climate. This part of Akita doesn’t usually get mid-season warm streaks, so the snow sticks around in good shape. Snowstorms roll through regularly, often followed by clear skies, which makes for great riding conditions. The snowfall is steady, and the powder stays fresh.
Mountain Layout
Akita Hachimantai has an ageing double chairlift that covers 1 km in distance and 220 m in elevation. From the top, there are two trails to choose from.
Satellite imagery of Akita Hachimantai. Image: Map Data ©2025 Google
Bunamori (1,100 m) is closest to the lift and is ideal for beginners and intermediates. This trail is always groomed, regardless of the weather, and the gentle slope makes it perfect for learning or mindless carving without worrying about speed.
Todomatsu (1,300 m) is the slope furthest from the lift and is aimed at intermediate riders. After a storm, it’s often left untouched and offers easy access to powder. The first steep portion feels good, but the run-out flattens quickly and can feel a little underwhelming.
Off-Piste Opportunities
Sidecountry
Side terrain accessed under the lift at Akita Hachimantai. Image: Eliot Cochrane
For lift-accessed powder, a small pocket of trees between the main trails offers a little fun terrain. But the best stashes are just underneath the lift. After a big storm, this is the most popular zone for quick access to natural snow. There are plenty of routes back to the lift, and the trees are well spaced. During the heart of winter, the powder often sticks around for days.
Backcountry
View of the uphill path behind Akita Hachimantai. Image: Eliot Cochrane
For those looking to hike Mt. Hachimantai in winter, Akita Hachimantai is a great place to start. A short lift ride gives a helpful head start, and heading out behind the ski area opens up a lot of terrain for experienced backcountry users. You can descend to the Fukenoyu Onsen (closed in winter), and there are plenty of snow monsters around the summit.
With multiple cars, it’s possible to do a full descent into Iwate. In spring, guided ski tours offer drop-offs at the summit and pickups at the bottom of the Aspite Line.
Spring Cherry Blossoms
Thanks to Akita Hachimantai’s long season, visitors can ski in the morning and view cherry blossoms in the afternoon. As winter roads reopen, some stunning spots become accessible:
Koiwai Farm – Shizukuishi, Akita
Blooming cherry trees at Koiwai Farm in Shizukuishi, Iwate, with Mt. Iwate in the background. Image: Tohoku Kanko
Shizukuishi’s Koiwai Farm transforms during the cherry blossom season. The farm’s road lined with sakura creates a solid line of pink blossoms, while a solitary cherry tree stands in an open field with a clear view of Mt. Iwate like a Ghibli film scene.
Bukeyashiki – Kakunodate, Akita
Weeping cherry trees along the samurai district in Kakunodate, Akita. Image: Nippon.com
This beautifully preserved samurai district features old wooden homes, quiet streets, and a timeless atmosphere. Each spring, soft pink cherry blossoms bloom along dark wooden fences, creating a picturesque blend of traditional architecture and seasonal beauty.
Where to Stay
Goshogake Onsen
Located in Hachimantai National Park near the ski area, Goshogake Onsen has a 300-year history and is always steaming from the surrounding geothermal activity. Steam vents, bubbling mud pools, and a short walking trail make it a memorable stop.
Exterior view of Goshogake Onsen. Image: JR East
The recently renovated inn serves local cuisine, and its indoor and outdoor baths are perfect for soaking in nature. The natural spring water has a distinct aroma that some foreign guests may find strong. Rooms are cosy, with both tatami-style and Western beds available. It’s a peaceful retreat to reset before heading into the backcountry.
View of rooms available at Goshogake Onsen. Image: Goshogake Onsen
Local Cuisine – Horumon (ホルモン)
Horumon (offal stew with cabbage) at Hana Chidori in Kazuno, Akita. Image: Tabelog
Horumon is a Japanese dish made from pork or beef intestines, stomach, and other organs. It’s typically grilled or stewed and is rich and savoury. Seasoning tends to be bold, with miso, soy sauce, and garlic bringing out a deep flavour. The texture is part of the appeal too.
Exterior of Hana Chidori at night in Kazuno, Akita. Image: Google Maps
In Kazuno, horumon is a local favourite. People enjoy it grilled on tabletop stoves or cooked in hearty miso stews, especially in colder months. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether at festivals or cosy get-togethers. If you’re curious to try it, Hana Chidori is a well-known spot and usually requires a reservation on weekends.
Getting to Akita Hachimantai
By Car
Take the highway to the Kazuno-Hachimantai IC exit. From there, follow Route 282 to Route 341, and then continue up the Aspite Line. It takes about 30 minutes from the highway exit. Other routes are closed during the winter season but open towards mid-April.
Sign on a small shed leading to Akita Hachimantai indicating it’s open. Image: Eliot Cochrane
Who is Akita Hachimantai For?
Akita Hachimantai is an ideal destination for skiers who understand the importance of timing. If you enjoy being among the first on the freshly prepared slopes, plan your visit for mid-November when the lifts begin operations. For those who prefer peaceful runs and the absence of crowds, winter weekends provide a unique opportunity to experience the mountain almost exclusively.
A solitary zipper line in fresh snow at Akita Hachimantai. Image: Eliot Cochrane
Spring at Akita Hachimantai offers a refreshing change. While many other resorts close for the season, this location continues to thrive with visitors coming from all over Tohoku. By afternoon, visitors can switch from skis to walking shoes and enjoy a leisurely stroll beneath the cherry trees in full bloom.
View from the chairlift looking up Akita Hachimantai. Image: Eliot Cochrane
This transitional period, where winter’s final moments meet the arrival of spring, creates a memorable experience. Akita Hachimantai serves as a destination for those who appreciate the subtle changes in nature. A place where winter gracefully steps aside, allowing spring to take center stage.
Snow falling on the road up to Akita Hachimantai. Image: Eliot Cochrane
Ski Asia’s Tiny Resorts series is a tribute to the ~85% of ski resorts in Japan with fewer than five lifts – the heart and soul of the country’s ski industry. The series was inspired by the popularity of an article we published in 2023, titled “5 tiny Japanese ski resorts that you’re guaranteed to fall in love with“.
May 22, 2025
The Gods will smile upon you when you enter the kingdom of Akita Hachimantai. More a religious pilgrimage than a simple day of gliding, you will be transformed forever. As you pass through the sanctuary of old growth trees, your soul will be purified; as you eat the best ramen of your life, your body will be nourished; as you sink into the deepest powder on Earth, you accept that your time here is only temporary; as you are healed by the bubbling volcanic waters, you will for a moment ascend to the heavens. And then go get a bottle of local doboroku from the little store down the road and savor The Day you became complete.
May 22, 2025
Great article. I might visit next year.