Last updated: December 21, 2020
World-class hiking and an exceptionally long ski season
Mt. Tanigawa (1,977 m) is a rugged mountain straddling Gunma and Niigata prefectures. It is a popular hiking route and sightseeing spot from July to November and a backcountry ski destination in winter.
Ichinokurasawa Gorge, located in the foothills on the eastern side, is a great vantage point for appreciating the rugged slopes and the forests of Mt. Tanigawa. A 15-minute ride up the Tanigawadake Ropeway will whisk you up the side of the mountain to Tenjindaira at 1,319 meters, where you can enjoy panoramic views across the area. The ropeway is very popular in mid-October when it provides views of the fall foliage.
The deep powder snow at the small ski resort of Tenjindaira has one of Japan's longest ski seasons, opening as early as the start of December and staying open through May. Enjoy high-quality natural snow that does not use artificial snowfall machines. The resort has just a handful of runs, but the real draw is its expansive, varied backcountry ski opportunities.
Yubiso, Minakami, Tone District ( Map)
About 50 minutes by bus from Jomo-Kogen Station
About 25 minutes by bus from Minakami Station
About 25 minutes by car from Minakami IC of Kan-Etsu Expressway
http://www.tanigawadake-rw.com/ropeway/
Road closure between Tanigawadake Ropeway Doaiguchi Station and Ichinokurasawa from mid-November to late May
