REPORT

Although the JMA’s 1-month and 3-month forecasts in October stated that “November temperatures will be higher than average nationwide,” November in Nagano actually trended colder than normal. And at Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort, nothing was more significant in paving the way for the start of the season than the heavy snowfall on 11/19 (Wed.)! With that storm, Uenotaira picked up about 60 cm, while Yamabiko received 70 to 80 cm, enabling the resort to stick to their planned 11/29 (Sat.) opening.
[Kokenashi Slope・A Course]

This morning, the cold rain falling at the base turned to snow as I ascended via the Nagasaka Gondola, and wet snow was falling steadily on the Uenotaira Slope. Even on the lower section of the Yamabiko D Course (pictured), where snow coverage was thin on last season’s opening day, no bare ground or exposed brush was visible. It was clear that the slope had been well prepared with a combination of natural and machine-made snow.
[Yamabiko Slope・D Course]

On the Yamabiko Slope, 1 to 2 cm of moist new snow had fallen between last night and this morning. Measuring in the middle of the groomed Yamabiko D Course, which is set to open on 11/29 (Sat.), the base depth was about 30 cm (pictured). Afterwards, checking the ungroomed area along the course edge revealed more than 50 cm.
[Yamabiko Slope・D Course]

On the Kokenashi Slope (first photo) and the Uenotaira Slope (pictured), there were signs that some grooming had been done, though not across the entire area. The groomed sections here had about 20 cm of snow. “I hope the snowfall forecasted for 11/28 (Fri.) comes through and we get a bit more accumulation,” was the comment from a resort staff member. Expectations are rising that even more terrain will be opened up.
[Uenotaira Slope]

　　
*The 2025–26 winter season at Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort is scheduled to run from 11/29/2025 through 5/6/2026 (subject to snow conditions).
*11/29 (Sat.) to 12/19 (Fri.) is Nozawa’s “Early Sason.” One-day lift tickets are JPY5,400 for adults, JPY3,300 for children (junior high school age and younger), and JPY4,300 for seniors (60 and over).

[Nozawa Onsen Details on 11/29 (Sat.)]
*Avaiiable Courses … Yamabiko Area A, C, D, E
*Available Lifts … Nagasaka Gondola (8:30～), Yamabiko No.2 Four(8:40～), Yamabiko Four(8:45～)
*Fees … Adult JPY5,400, Under 15 y/o JPY3,300, Senior JPY4,300 (Until 12/19)
　
*Click here to purchase photos found in this report

reported by Snownavi