Tanigawadake Tenjindaira Ski Resort Has Been Transformed into Mt.T by Hoshino Resorts! Ultimate Powder Snow and Thrilling Slopes Await Your Challenge

The year-round appeal of Mt. Tanigawa and its transportation options

As one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains, Mt. Tanigawa is located on the border between Gunma and Niigata prefectures. Accessible within a two-hour journey from Tokyo, this mountain, despite its summit being less than 2,000 meters above sea level, boasts breathtaking scenery with its sheer cliffs and intricate ridges that rival those of Japan's 3,000-meter peaks.

​You can enjoy the beautiful seasonal changes of the Tanigawa Mountain Range — from fresh greenery to vibrant red leaves and snowy white landscapes — while riding a high-altitude cable car that operates reliably even in strong winter winds. You can also enjoy various outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, and skiing, fully immersing yourself in the mountain's diverse natural attractions.

To reachMt.T by Hoshino Resorts from Tokyo using public transportation, take the Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo Station (JR) for a ride of about 1 hour and 20 minutes, then transfer to a bus bound for Jomo-Kogen Station. The bus ride to the Tanigawadake Ropeway takes approximately 50 minutes. If driving from Tokyo, take the Kan-etsu Expressway, proceed on National Route 291 toward Tanigawadake, and exit at the Minakami Interchange. The resort is about a 25-minute drive from there.

For those who want to travel north by train from Tokyo and conquer ski resorts in the Tohoku region, we recommend the convenient and budget-friendly JR East Rail Pass (Tohoku area). This pass can be used on local JR trains and Shinkansen within the Kanto region and the six Tohoku prefectures over a period of up to five days, enabling you to visit popular ski resorts at a more affordable price.

Mt.T by Hoshino Resorts
Address: Yubukiyama National Forest, Yubiso, Minakami-machi, Tone-gun, Gunma
Access: Take a 50-minute bus journey from Jomo-Kogen Station (JR) and get off at the Tanigawadake Ropeway bus stop.

「Mt.T by Hoshino Resorts」Official website

More information about Mt.T by Hoshino Resorts here

More information about JR EAST PASS (Tohoku area) here

Two standout features of Mt.T by Hoshino Resorts: powder snow at the summit and its varied terrain

Mt.T by Hoshino Resorts, which evolved from the former Tenjindaira Ski Resort, boasts an abundant snowfall that is hard to find at other ski resorts, thanks to its ideal geographic location and terrain. Moreover, the snow that falls is high-quality powder snow, making the skiing experience truly exceptional. At the base of the mountain, you'll find steep slopes and varied terrain, offering even more challenges and thrills during your ski adventure.

Tip for advanced skiers (1): Conquer the 3-kilometer-long Tajirizawa Trail!

​For those with some skiing experience, we recommend the Tajirizawa Trail adjacent to the 3-kilometer-long cable car route. Enjoy the changing scenery and distant views as you glide along this long trail.

Tip for advanced skiers (2): Thrill-seekers should visit the Tenjin Pass Advanced Trail, featuring an exhilarating 34-degree slope!

For those seeking to elevate their skiing skills, we highly recommend the challenging 34-degree slope at the upper Tenjin Pass Ski Trail. Feel the rush as you plummet down the steep slopes of Mt. Tenjin, your heart pounding with excitement and a touch of fear. The surrounding landscape transforms before your eyes, offering breathtaking views at every turn.

Tip for advanced skiers (3): Check safety measures before you take on backcountry skiing!

​The backcountry area of Mt.T by Hoshino Resorts, where snow trails are not maintained, is famous among a select group of backcountry skiing enthusiasts. Skiing on the untouched powder snow provides an unparalleled sense of speed and tests the skills and reflexes of advanced skiers.
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Please be sure to take thorough safety precautions when going backcountry skiing, such as repeatedly checking the latest weather and snow conditions, and carrying essential equipment like a radio, map, and compass. Also, be sure to be accompanied by a qualified mountain guide who is familiar with Mt. Tanigawa.

To guarantee skier safety, they have implemented various measures, including constant monitoring of snow conditions

To provide a safe and secure skiing environment, Mt.T by Hoshino Resorts is committed to enhancing facilities and training specialized staff. For example, they monitor snow conditions on the slopes 24/7, provide real-time updates, and have installed beacon checkers throughout the resort. Additionally, their staff conducts controlled small-scale avalanches during closed hours to prevent larger, more dangerous ones. These comprehensive safety measures help ensure the safety of both skiers and mountaineers.

The local specialty, Tanigawa Alpine Gratin, is hearty and satisfying! Be sure to try it!

Image Source: PR TIMES

Located right next to the cable car station, the landscape restaurant View Terrace Tenjin boasts large glass windows that offer stunning panoramic views of the Tanigawa Mountain Range. Their signature dish, the Tanigawa Alpine Gratin, features a generous amount of vegetables, bacon, and chicken, topped with a rich white sauce and plenty of cheese, then baked until lightly browned. Not only is it filling, but its rich texture and savory flavor make it even more irresistible.

On the way back, unwind at one of the nearby 18 hot springs in Minakami

If you're looking to unwind after a full day of skiing at Mt.T by Hoshino Resorts, take a dip in one of the 18 hot springs in Minakami scattered around the Tanigawadake area. They’re perfect for relieving fatigue and muscle pain. Even on the bus ride back to Jomo-Kogen Station (JR), you'll pass through several hot spring areas like Yubiso Onsen, Unose Onsen, and Minakami Onsen. Staying overnight is also recommended so you can relax and rejuvenate. The next morning, you'll be the first one on the slopes, ready to enjoy skiing again.

Bonus: Perfect for family snow fun! Visit Tanigawadake Joch by Hoshino Resorts

No worries if you can't ski! At Tanigawadake Joch by Hoshino Resorts, formerly known as Tanigawadake Ropeway, you can rent equipment for simple snow activities like sledding and snowshoeing. Additionally, tools for building snowmen, which are very popular with children, are also available.

Snowshoes are available in various sizes, from adult to child sizes. Once worn, the whole family can walk together on the snow, hand in hand. You can enjoy the soft, fluffy feel of the natural white snow beneath your feet, offering a different kind of fun compared to skiing!

*The above data (times, fees) is based on past information and may change depending on local conditions. Please check the facility's official website in advance for updates.