Seki Onsen looks like a tiny resort on paper with only two lifts, one of which is a precarious-looking single-seater, and just four “trails” overall. What makes this place special, however, is the resort’s micro-climate (it is an absolute snow hole) and its fantastic ungroomed slopes. In fact, the trails that the resort does officially have are only groomed on an irregular basis and often left untouched after snowfall. The major attraction that draws powder hunters here though is the treed area leading down from the right at the top of the hill. It’s steep, deep and densely forested, making for some seriously fun and challenging terrain. Needless to say that Seki isn’t for everyone and inexperienced skiers should tag along with advanced heads or opt for the sidecountry in one of the other resorts.
The backcountry awaits for those willing to earn their turns
The terrain above the top lift in Seki Onsen is also known locally for the excellent tree skiing and untouched slopes it offers. The same applies for the area above the top lift at Akakura Kanko – we saw a number of tracks coming down from higher ground and this is a particularly popular spot for powder lovers after a big dump of freshies. Both of these areas do, however, require you to “earn your turns” with a hike up the hill. As always, we strongly recommend only attempting these areas with the proper freeride kit and in the company of an experienced local guide. Additional backcountry access is available up above Akakura Kanko, with local guides and schools offering tours and trips up into the pow.
Some nice sidecountry powder in bounds
The rules governing off-piste skiing are different in each sub-area of Myoko Kogen and we recommend checking with the lift personnel before you head off-piste. The zones below the chair lifts and gondolas are generally considered no-go areas. The ski area boundaries are usually well marked and it appeared that everything within these boundaries was “fair game”. There were some really fun gullies and treed areas between runs in Akakura Kanko & Onsen and Suginohara that are also a great place for greenhorns to find their feet off-piste. Just remember to know your limits, stay safe and respect the trees and natural surroundings.