Okunakayama Kogen is a tiny Japanese ski resort offering simple, timeless skiing

This article is part of Ski Asia's Tiny Resorts series, an ode to the local resorts that form the heart and soul of the industry.

Lift No.5 at the bottom of Okunakayama Kogen. Image: Eliot Cochrane

Okunakayama Kogen is a modestly sized ski area nestled in Ichinohe, Iwate Prefecture. Surrounded by larger and more commercialized ski areas, it stands out as a gem for those seeking a more personal and accessible skiing experience. Despite its size, Okunakayama Kogen has maintained a loyal following of skiers and snowboarders over the years, largely thanks to its affordability and convenient location near the border with Aomori Prefecture. Its charm lies not in grandiosity but in its familiarity, making it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike.

Immediate powder access from Lift No.4. Image: Eliot Cochrane

The resort’s straightforward layout makes it appealing to anyone looking for a relaxed and unhurried day on the slopes. It offers an alternative to the hustle and bustle of larger resorts, with its focus on simplicity and enjoyment. Whether you’re chasing powder, practicing your technique, or just looking for a change of pace, Okunakayama Kogen provides the perfect setting to reconnect with the heart of skiing.

Lifts & Terrain

Okunakayama Kogen offers a well-balanced mix of beginner, intermediate, and expert trails. Its fairly open tree runs and off-piste availability make it a great all-around destination.

English trail map of Okunakayama Kogen. Image: Okunakayama Kogen

At its core, Okunakayama Kogen is a family resort that caters to every level of skier. Beginners can enjoy gentle, straightforward slopes, while park thrill-seekers can find a kicker or half-pipe. The upper half of the mountain offers steep groomed corduroy runs, moguls, and powder for advanced skiers.

Speaking of powder, Okunakayama Kogen sees heavy snowfall starting in late December, continuing through the end of January. The resort has also made significant efforts to improve its tree runs, making them easier to navigate for varying skill levels. These runs now span most of the mountain, except for one area leading to a creek, which is usually marked with red tape for safety. While you can venture beyond, doing so is at your own risk, as there’s no formal exit. Overall, you’ll often spot tracks leading from the runs into the woods, eventually looping back to a trail below.

Tree Run Area near Lift No.3 and Lift No.4. Image: Eliot Cochrane

Unlike many other resorts that restrict tree skiing, Okunakayama Kogen embraces it within the resort boundaries. Powder isn’t locked behind a paywall so if you can find it, you can ski it.

“Sure, there are resorts with bigger lifts, more intricate trails, and larger powder areas. But none of those places capture the universal nostalgia that skiers and snowboarders hold dear.”

What’s Special?

Many people come to Japan in search of the beloved “Japan Powder,” only to make the search stressful and exhausting. A stop at Okunakayama Kogen is like stepping back into the simplicity of why we love skiing or snowboarding. Sure, there are resorts with bigger lifts, more intricate trails, and larger powder areas. But none of those places capture the universal nostalgia that skiers and snowboarders hold dear. Okunakayama Kogen truly embodies the charm of a local family ski area.

Tree Run Area between Lift No.3 and Yamabiko Course. Image: Eliot Cochrane

The relaxed, family-oriented nature of the resort is the true spark of Okunakayama Kogen. Families in the area feel comfortable dropping off their children for the day to let them have fun. This increasingly rare sight is made possible by the safe and welcoming atmosphere, complemented by the background sounds of laughter and the smell of freshly made food from local vendors in the lodge.

Local vendor selling sweets and fried chicken in the entrance area. Image: Eliot Cochrane

Okunakayama Kogen recognises the value of snow sports for families and also extends its hospitality to military families from the U.S. base in Misawa, Aomori. The resort has increased English signage and provides staff members who can assist with basic English. There’s even a military discount available upon showing proper ID, making Okunakayama Kogen a welcoming spot for U.S. military members and their families.

Local Spot: Yuki Akari (雪あかり)

Located just below the main lodge in a small building, Yuki Akari is a cosy yet popular gelato shop. While it’s a favourite summer spot for its scenic views, it also draws a crowd in winter. Even on the coldest of days, a scoop of gelato can be the perfect treat after a day on the slopes.

Yuki Akari gelato shop exterior. Image: Eliot Cochrane

There are 12 regular flavours available year-round, along with seasonal options like tomato, kiwi, and cherry blossom — all worth trying! The milk used is locally sourced near Okunakayama Kogen, pasteurized in the shop, and crafted into delicious flavours.

Double size gelato of potato butter and Yuki Akari flavors. Image: Eliot Cochrane

A single scoop costs ¥350, a double scoop is ¥400, and a triple scoop is ¥500. Each scoop can be a different flavor. Show your lift ticket for a ¥50 discount towards singles and doubles!

Accommodation

Hotel Okunakayama Kogen is located inside the main lodge. Guests can choose between Western-style or traditional tatami rooms, both offering a cosy place to relax after a day on the slopes. The lodge’s onsen is especially notable, with spacious baths and scenic views of the surrounding landscape. It’s perfect for unwinding before a good night’s rest.

Japanese-style tatami room at Hotel Okunakayama Kogen. Image: Okunakayama Kogen

Room and meal plans range from ¥8,100 ($55 USD) to ¥11,000 ($75 USD). Dinner options range from simple bento-style offerings to full-course kaiseki dinners featuring local delicacies. Reservations must be made ahead of time.

Getting to Okunakayama Kogen

By Train/Bus

Take the Iwate Galaxy Railway (IGR) to Okunakayama Kogen Station, followed by a 10-minute bus ride to the resort.

By Car

From the South: About 50 minutes north on National Route 4 from the Takizawa IC on the Tohoku Expressway.

From the North: About 40 minutes south on National Route 4 from the Ichinohe IC on the Hachinohe Expressway.

Who Should Visit

Overlook from the powder on the Hayabusa Course. Image: Eliot Cochrane

Okunakayama Kogen contains everything that makes snow sports timelessly enjoyable and is a nostalgic reminder of simpler days on the slopes. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, this small ski area offers something special: an escape from the chaos and a chance to savour the simple joys of skiing. It’s a place that evokes memories of early days spent at a local hill, carving tracks without a care in the world. For anyone longing to relive that simple, timeless magic, this is where you’ll find it.