Hakodate Nanae

Emptiness is the selling point in reviews: foreign skiers are rare, untracked lines survive into the middle of a Monday after a storm, and even weekends feel calm next to the big names of central Hokkaido. The long gondola covers nearly the whole vertical, the runs are wide and well groomed, so the place is recommended to beginners and intermediates. The trees get a mention too, tight in places and open in others, and lift staff are described as helpful.

Sameness and thin facilities are the complaints. Steep terrain is in short supply and strong skiers get bored quickly, while snowfall and snow quality lag behind central Hokkaido. Opinions on value split, with some guests feeling they got too little for the money. There are gripes about the modest base area, rental gear and rude service from individual staff, and with no lodging at the foot of the hill you have to stay elsewhere.