This article is part of Ski Asia's Tiny Resorts series, an ode to the ~85% of resorts in Japan with fewer than five lifts – the heart and soul of the industry.
Tucked away in the southern mountains of Akita Prefecture, Jeunesse Kurikoma is a small ski area that charms visitors with natural beauty, minimal lift lines, and little foreign influence. This quiet getaway offers a simple yet fulfilling skiing experience, with an onsen attached to complete the escape.
Base of quad lift at Jeunesse Kurikoma. Image: Eliot Cochrane
Situated in Higashinaruse, southeast of Yokote, Jeunesse Kurikoma is a bit off the beaten path, but the scenic drive through the mountains is worth it. As you travel along the river, you’ll pass aging Japanese houses, beautiful mountain views, and even a small shrine with a natural spring that offers clean, fresh water year-round. Many skiers make it a ritual to stop at the shrine, filling any water bottles on their way home from the slopes hoping for good fortune.
Several times a season, skiers can enjoy powder up to their hips, often with only a handful of other people on the entire mountain.
Weather and Snow Conditions
While Jeunesse Kurikoma is known for its laid-back vibe, the ski area experiences heavy snowfalls and winds which can result in frequent “resets” of the powder areas – sometimes giving the slopes an almost fresh layer of snow even without new snowfall.
Exit of linking trail to upper double lift at Jeunesse Kurikoma. Image: Eliot Cochrane
Jeunesse Kurikoma doesn’t receive as much snow as the famous Geto Kogen in Iwate, but what it does get tends to stick around all day. Several times a season, skiers can enjoy powder up to their hips, often with only a handful of other people on the entire mountain.
Mountain Layout
Shuffling skiers and snowboarders up the mountain are three lifts. The first pair lift is on the far right when looking up the mountain from the main lodge. This is the beginner slope but can be painful for beginners, as the long slope to the lift is extremely flat and difficult to keep enough speed to return to the lift for beginners.
Riding quad lift facing main slope at Jeunesse Kurikoma. Image: Eliot Cochrane
Directly in front of the lodge is the super-quad lift to bring skiers up mid-mountain. This is a quick lift that provides the most access and the smoothest ride. It gives access to the front-facing slopes and also the powder field between the first pair lift and the quad. Plateaus on the main trails are great for jumps with the right speed but be careful of who might be on the landing-slope, as the landing area is not always visible from the top.
View of powder trails from the upper double lift at Jeunesse Kurikoma. Image: Eliot Cochrane
The final lift is the third pair lift from midway to the top. On powder days, this is one of the more popular lifts. Most of the trails from the lift are only groomed to entrances and from exits, while the core of the trail is ungroomed.
Skiing under lifts is no problem. The ski patrol may rescind this if snow conditions make it hazardous below the lift.
Off-Piste Opportunities
Jeunesse Kurikoma offers an excellent introduction to powder skiing, with accessible off-piste terrain right from the lifts. From mellow slopes beside the quad to steeper, more challenging runs below the upper lifts, it caters to varying skill levels.
Aerial photo of Jeunesse Kurikoma. Image: AirGeo.com
While the resort excels in powder, sidecountry and backcountry opportunities are limited by dense surrounding forests. However, backcountry beginners can practice safely on an old, unused slope just before the main parking lot, perfect for getting comfortable with backcountry equipment.
Resort Accommodation
For those looking to stay overnight, Yamayuri Onsen Hotel Blanc is the place to be near Jeunesse Kurikoma. This hotel offers simple, comfortable accommodation with an onsen overlooking the main slope. The hotel has straightforward yet pleasant customer service and it provides everything guests need without extreme formality.
Yamayuri Onsen Hotel Blanc at Jeunesse Kurikoma. Image: Eliot Cochrane
Food and Dining
Inside the main lodge, visitors can find a restaurant offering standard Japanese ski resort food, including ramen, soba, pizza, and curry. The dining setup is typical for many Japanese ski areas, with visitors purchasing meal tickets from a vending machine before their number is called for pickup. While most items on the menu are numbered and have some English, announcements are typically made in Japanese. If you’re unsure when your meal is ready, don’t hesitate to ask the staff for assistance.
Food court at Jeunesse Kurikoma. Image: Eliot Cochrane
Why Jeunesse Kurikoma?
Jeunesse Kurikoma’s appeal lies in its remoteness and the type of skier it attracts. This isn’t a resort decorated with gold accents, elaborate ski schools, or gourmet meals. Instead, it offers a simple, no-frills experience that resonates with skiers who value peace, quiet, and the natural beauty of the mountain. The vibe here is friendly and relaxed, with a focus on skiing rather than the hustle and bustle of larger, more commercial resorts.
Overview from upper double lift at Jeunesse Kurikoma. Image: Eliot Cochrane
In the winter, road closures make Jeunesse Kurikoma even more isolated, as direct access from Miyagi Prefecture and Iwate Prefecture are cut off. This limitation keeps the crowds away, but it also makes the journey a bit more challenging for those unfamiliar with the area. The reward is well worth the effort for those who appreciate solitude on the slopes.
…it offers a simple, no-frills experience that resonates with skiers who value peace, quiet, and the natural beauty of the mountain.
Unique Local Cuisine
Iburigakko (いぶりがっこ) is a smoked and pickled daikon radish dish from Yokote. The name combines iburi (smoked) and gakko (pickles). Daikon radishes are smoked over cherry wood before being pickled in rice bran, salt, and sugar. This gives a crunchy texture with a balance of smoky, salty, and sweet flavors.
Sliced iburigakko. Image: 食育大辞典
Iburigakko is traditionally enjoyed as a side dish. It’s also popular paired with cream cheese or meats, offering a highlight of Akita’s culinary heritage. While its bold, smoky flavour can be polarizing for foreigners, it’s a must-try for a unique taste of the region.
Iburigakko topped with cream cheese. Image: 東北あいターン
Access to Jeunesse Kurikoma
By Train: Take the JR East train to Jumonji Station (via Ou Line), then take a taxi to the resort (approx. 50 min).
By Car: The drive from the Jumonji IC on the Yuzawa Yokote Road (approx. 40 min)
Yokote Yuzawa Road to Jeunesse Kurikoma. Image: Eliot Cochrane
Who is Jeunesse Kurikoma for?
Jeunesse Kurikoma is perfect for skiers and snowboarders seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle of larger resorts. Its uncrowded slopes and remote location make it an excellent choice for those who value solitude and a slower pace. If you’re drawn to untouched powder, humble charm, and the quiet beauty of nature, this little gem in the southern mountains of Akita Prefecture is well worth a visit.
Wind gusts at the top of the quad lift at Jeunesse Kurikoma. Image: Eliot Cochrane
