One of the most striking features of Myoko Kogen during the test was the sheer amount of terrain parks spread throughout the resorts. We definitely had the impression that the ski resort operators have made a real effort to cater for the freestyle crowd and the shaping crews clearly put a lot of effort into keeping the parks in immaculate condition. Both Akakura resorts offer up a range of parks for freestylers of all levels, with a Main Park, Beginner Park and Kids Park.
Lots of natural sidecountry features
One aspect of skiing in Japan that we really enjoyed, particularly in Myoko, was the vast amount of interesting sidecountry features on offer. There is plenty of ungroomed terrain to explore between the runs in most of the Myoko Kogen resorts and the ski patrol policy appears to be quite relaxed in this regard providing you remain in bounds and avoid the areas below the lifts. The varied terrain therefore offers up all manner of natural kickers, drops, gullies and tree runs – in short, there’s a lot of fun to be had providing you remain respectful to the rules and natural surroundings here.
Sugi Park and Ikeno City are top-notch freestyle spots
The largest terrain park in Myoko Kogen is “Ikeno City” in the Ikenotaira sub-area. The upper section usually includes three large consecutive tabletops where you can get some serious air, while lower down the focus is on jibbing, boxes and curved rails. The park is also conveniently served by the Ikenotaira Quad lift. Our favourite park was undoubtedly, however, the Sugi Park in Suginohara. This vast side area on the far side of the Mitahara Zone down from Mitahara High Speed Lift no. 2 offers up a huge variety of rails and butter boxes, jumps in a range of sizes and a creatively shaped skate park-style pipe area. This dedicated zone is generously sized and well maintained – if freestyle is your thing, be sure to check it out.