NORIKURA TIMES (Winter Fun Part 2)

Before we knew it, February had arrived. February is often called by names that suggest the arrival of spring, such as "Mid-Spring," "Plum Blossom Viewing Month," "Snow Melting Month," and "Blooming Month," but the cold weather continues in Norikura.
This time, in addition to skiing and snowboarding, which are the main pastimes of this season, we will be sharing information about "nature skiing," which allows you to enjoy snow from a different angle, as well as sharing some everyday snow activities.

1. What is nature skiing?

Nature skiing is a type of skiing that involves walking and skiing in the natural fields and mountains, not at a ski resort.
Anywhere with snow can be a playground, whether it's a plain, a forest, a gentle hill, or a steep slope.
You can take a leisurely stroll or skate as stoically as in a competition.
Another attraction is that it is easier to enjoy than skiing.
Even if you have no experience skiing or haven't skied in years, by choosing a place with a gentle slope you can quickly get used to the feeling of skiing and enjoy the fun of the snowy mountains!

2. Nature skiing equipment

The equipment needed for nature skiing is almost the same as for regular skiing: skis, poles, boots, and clothing.
However, the skis and boots are actually completely different from regular skis.
Regular skis are designed for sliding downhill, so it's difficult to climb even a slight slope.
However, nature skis have scales on the bottom, which makes it easy to move uphill without slipping.
Another characteristic of nature skiing is that the shoes used are soft, like trekking boots, and the heels are not fixed to the skis.

At first, you may find it difficult to get used to the slightly different sensation from skiing, but the joy of nature skiing is in trying lots of different things and falling lots of times.
It would be fun to fall over and laugh on Norikura's high-quality powder snow, or even better, fall as hard as you can and look up at the clear blue sky.

3. Tour and rental information

If you are trying nature skiing for the first time, we recommend joining a tour so that you can choose a course that suits your level and learn how to manage risks on snowy mountains.

Here we will introduce you to some guided tour information for Norikura that you can rely on in such situations.
Nature skiing equipment is also available for rent, so even first-timers can enjoy the experience with peace of mind.

▼Guided tours available at Norikura (all held from December to March)

• LittlePeaks
  Guided tours:https://www.littlepeaks.jp/about/tour/natureski
  rental:https://www.littlepeaks.jp/rental/#anchor-BLOCK_1436
• Sanoya Nature Experience Inn
  Guided Tours & Rentals:http://www2.tbb.t-com.ne.jp/sanoya/

Until the end of the year, there was little snow in Norikura, which was a cause for concern, but recently the amount of snow has increased and we are now able to enjoy playing in the snow.
When you take a walk around Ichinose, you will find some impressive snow huts and snowmen, which is very heartwarming.

During the snowy season, both adults and children can return to their childhood and enjoy playing in the snow to their heart's content.
The fun and sense of accomplishment of playing in the snow is exceptional!

▼ Click here for information on Norikura Kogen events.

NORIKURA TIMES is updated every two weeks by the blog team of the Norikura Tourism Association's Public Relations Department. Members who love Norikura take turns writing articles, delivering the latest information on Norikura Highlands recommended by the members. This time, Tomoka Suzuki was in charge. Please look forward to the next one!