Yakebitaiyama Ski Resort, Ski resort in Yamanouchi, Japan.
Yakebitaiyama Ski Resort is a ski area in Yamanouchi, in Nagano Prefecture, served by two gondolas and several chairlifts. The runs pass through forested and open sections at different elevations of the mountain.
The resort opened in 1983 and became internationally known in 1998 when it hosted competitive events during the Nagano Winter Olympics. That occasion placed it firmly on the map of Japanese winter sports.
The resort sits within Shiga Kogen, a designated national recreation area where construction is strictly controlled. This keeps the forests around the slopes dense and largely unchanged, giving the whole area a natural feel that stands out compared to many other ski destinations.
The resort is linked to other areas of Shiga Kogen by shuttle services, so visitors can move between different slopes on the same day. Equipment rental is available at several points within the resort, so there is no need to travel with gear.
The resort is known for tree skiing through its dense forest sections, where snow tends to stay in good condition later in the season than on open slopes. This makes it a go-to spot for experienced riders who prefer natural terrain over groomed runs.
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