Kuju Shinrin Koen Ski Resort

Japan’s southern island may not first come to mind when you think of snowy ski slopes, but Kyushu’s Kuju Shinrin Koen has you covered. With a variety of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, this peak will give you an extra highlight on your winter itinerary.

Kuju Shinrin Koen Ski Resort is located in the Kuju area of the Aso-Kuju National Park. The national park covers parts of Oita and Kumamoto Prefectures and is home to Japan’s largest active volcano, Mount Aso. The resort is part of the Kuju mountain range in Oita. While winter is a big draw for visitors, there’s plenty to do in the green season, too, including enjoying the autumn foliage and blooming flowers in the spring.

Kuju Shinrin Koen Ski Resort

Photo by: PIXTA/ K The biggest ski resort in Kyushu.

Although the ski resorts in northern Japan are larger by comparison, Kuju Shinrin Koen Ski Resort is nevertheless the biggest one in Kyushu. This mountain is particularly well-suited for beginner and intermediate learners. Make your way around by one of several lifts. Or, take the E-lift, a conveyor belt that removes the need to sit up on a lift.

Soon after passing through the entrance, you’ll find the equipment rental booths where you can borrow skis, snowboards, gloves, goggles and other accessories for a fee. Continue a bit further and find two areas fit for families and slopes for lessons. The family slope is about 700 meters long and features a low angle, while the lesson slope is a bit short at 420 meters. If you have little ones in need of a break, this lower area also has the Nakayoshi Square designed for sledding and snow play.

Heading Up The Mountain

Photo by: PIXTA/ K Up for a challenge? Head higher up the mountain!

Further up the mountain, you can access more challenging hills. Measuring 400 meters long at a 25-degree angle, this is the steepest the park has to offer. During the peak season, you can also try the moguls for a bump in difficulty. The nearby trial slopes offer a slightly curved course and offer a good chance for intermediate learners to level up their skills.

At the top of the park, visitors will be able to appreciate a beautiful panoramic view of the area at 1,300 meters up. Enjoy the view as you head back down the slope. For a change in terrain, the forest zone opens up at the height of the season. Carve your way through the snow with trees on either side.