OUR LOCATION
A winter base in the heart of Northern Nagano
Tayouki is tucked away in Nojiri, Shinano, surrounded by snow-covered forests, mountains, lakes and some of the best winter terrain in Nagano.
Rather than staying in the middle of a busy ski village, Tayouki gives you a peaceful base from which to explore. Kurohime Kogen is right on the doorstep, while a number of other renowned ski areas are within easy reach for day trips.
Whether you’re here for deep powder, quiet forest trails, traditional Japanese culture or a long soak after a day outside, there is plenty to discover around Tayouki.
Kurohime Kogen Snow Park
Just moments from Tayouki, Kurohime Kogen is the natural place to start.
This smaller, less crowded resort is known for its trees, side-country terrain and powder days, with a relaxed atmosphere that makes it particularly appealing if you want to escape the busier Japanese ski resorts.
There is also a fun park for skiers and snowboarders, while families can enjoy a range of snow activities including tubing and snow rafting.
Best for: Powder days, tree skiing, families and a quieter mountain experience.
SKI THE REGION
Tangram Ski Circus
Head into the mountains towards Tangram for another day of varied skiing and snowboarding.
Tangram is particularly well known for its excellent inbounds tree skiing and is connected directly to Madarao Mountain Resort, allowing experienced skiers and snowboarders to explore both areas.
It is a great option from groomed runs to deeper snow and natural features.
Best for: Tree skiing, exploring and making the most of a full powder day.
Madarao Mountain Resort
Madarao is one of the region’s favourite destinations for skiers looking for something a little more adventurous.
The resort has opened up much of its natural terrain, with gullies, trees and natural half-pipe features creating a more playful experience than a traditional groomed ski area.
Madarao is interconnected with Tangram Ski Circus, so the two can be combined into one big day on the mountain.
Best for: Powder, natural terrain, trees and adventurous skiers and snowboarders.
Myoko & Akakura
Just across the border in Niigata lies the wider Myoko ski region, home to several different resorts including Akakura Onsen, Akakura Kanko, Ikenotaira and Suginohara.
With abundant snowfall and a huge variety of terrain, Myoko is a perfect destination when you want to experience some of Japan’s legendary powder skiing.
Best for: Big powder days, variety and exploring different resorts.
Seki Onsen
Small, rustic and seriously focused on snow, Seki Onsen is a favourite among skiers looking for something beyond the groomed pistes.
The resort is compact, but its steep trees and off-piste terrain make it punch well above its size when the snow is falling.
If a big storm comes through, this is one to put on the list.
Best for: Deep powder, trees and experienced skiers and snowboarders.
Kurohime Ski Resort
Kurohime is a peaceful, family-friendly resort set among beautiful forested mountains. With a relaxed atmosphere, wide slopes and plenty of natural snow, it’s a great choice for a quieter day on the mountain.
The resort offers something for all abilities, with gentle runs for beginners and more challenging terrain through the trees for confident skiers.
Best for: Families, beginners, tree skiing and a relaxed, uncrowded experience.
Lotte Arai Resort
Known for its deep snowfall, steep terrain and expansive backcountry.
With extensive off-piste terrain, tree runs and some of the region’s best powder, Lotte Arai is ideal for experienced riders looking to explore beyond the groomed slopes.
Best for: Powder, off-piste skiing, advanced riders and big mountain adventures.
Lake Nojiri, Togakushi & Nagano
Just down the road from Tayouki, Lake Nojiri is one of the defining features of the area. Surrounded by mountains and forest, the lake offers a peaceful change of pace from the ski slopes. In winter, you can experience one of the area’s traditional pastimes: pond-smelt fishing from heated boats on the frozen lake.
For a day away from the snow, head towards the historic area of Togakushi and Nagano. Togakushi is famous for its ancient cedar-lined approach and shrines, while Nagano offers the chance to visit Zenkoji, one of Japan’s most important Buddhist temples.
It’s an opportunity to trade the ski boots for a day of Japanese culture, food and history before returning to the quiet of the mountains.
