Hodaigi Ski Resort, Ski resort in Minakami, Japan
Hodaigi Ski Resort is a ski resort near Minakami in Gunma Prefecture, with a range of courses across its slopes. Several lifts connect the upper and lower sections of the mountain, giving access to runs suited to different skill levels.
The resort opened in 1979 and drew winter visitors from Tokyo, partly because of the convenient train connection. It has stayed in continuous operation since then, remaining a familiar destination for people from the Kanto region.
The resort draws many first-time skiers because the gentler slopes encourage learning and practice. Staff members speak English and help visitors feel at home on the mountain.
Minakami Station is reachable by train from Tokyo, and buses run from there toward the slopes. In winter, road conditions can slow travel, so it helps to leave with some extra time.
The north-facing slopes at Hodaigi tend to keep powder snow longer because they receive less direct sun. On weekdays the runs see far less traffic, which means the snow stays in better shape for longer.
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