Kiroro Snow World

Freeride terrain at Kiroro is reasonable. Be sure to head up Nagamine Peak and ride Powder Line when it's fresh, quick though as this is popular with the locals. Or if you're keen for something a little steeper take the gondola up to Asari Peak and crank it down the C Course. You will see some nice tree riding options at Kiroro with some fun little pillow drops. Like most resorts in Japan, riding the trees is not officially allowed although the patrol staff here have some discretion and will leave you alone if you look like you can handle it - just watch out for the flat sections, they creep up on you fast. Freestyle terrain at Kiroro is more limited. They have a variable terrain park, seemingly at it's best in spring time, with a balanced mixture of jumps and rails. The park is visible from the base area and can be accessed from the Center Express lift. Unfortunately there's no half pipe to be found here, nevertheless when exploring the rest of the resort you'll come across some fun banks plus the odd tree jib and pillow drop to entertain you. The pistes (or courses as they're known in Japan) are good. They're long and wide, varying in pitch, well groomed and most of them finish at a high-speed lift. If you like to carve up the trails you'll be guaranteed to get your quota's worth here. Beginners have a small 2-man lift at the base area accessing a nice slope for getting the basics, after which there are many choices to progress on to. There's a good ski school here but if you're planning on having a lesson you'll need to book one week in advance to ensure you get an English speaking instructor.