Hachimantai Panorama & Shimokura | Iwate | Japan Snow

Diverse courses at two neighboring resorts

The Hachimantai area is located at the foot of Mt. Iwate in the Towada-Hachimantai National Park, and is known for its excellent powder snow and lush nature. There are two main resorts here — Panorama and Shimokura.

Panorama has ski courses geared towards beginners and intermediates, as well as facilities like Hachimantai Winterland, where visitors can try snow activities, and Skids Camp, a school where children can learn how to ski and snowboard. This resort is recommended for novices, intermediates and families.

Shimokura is more popular with experts. The resort's Diamond course is known for its maximum 37-degree gradient in a section called the "Wall of Shimokura." Ungroomed tree runs also beckon skilled skiers and riders on powder days.

The two resorts are a 10-minute ride apart and you can use the shuttle bus to travel between them.

How to get there

By train

Take the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Morioka Station. From there, transfer to the bus to the Hachimantai Mountain Hotel at Panorama (90 minutes). There is also a free shuttle bus from Morioka Station for guests staying at the hotel.

By plane

From Iwate Hanamaki Airport, take a bus to Morioka Station (60 minutes). From Morioka Station, take the bus to Panorama’s Hachimantai Mountain Hotel.

Winter activities for all ages at Panorama

Panorama's wide and flat slopes are perfect for anyone new to skiing or snowboarding. First-timers can practice on snow escalators or make their way to the Tohoku Beginner’s Park, an area designated for novices. The Hachimantai Winterland area has other snow activities that are fun for all ages, including sledding, snowmobiles and banana boats.

The best of Hachimantai’s powder snow

To best experience Hachimantai’s excellent powder, head to Shimokura. There are many runs catering to experts, including the steep "Wall of Shimokura" atop the Diamond course. There’s also an in-bounds tree riding area that snakes between groves of beech trees. Before making your way to the tree run area, you must notify the Powder Station at the base lodge and follow local rules. You can also participate in guided backcountry tours. There are a variety of programs catering to all levels that run in the area around the resort. Inquire at the Powder Station.

Relax at the tranquil Hachimantai Mountain Hotel

The Hachimantai Mountain Hotel, located at the base of Panorama, has a calm and rustic interior. Guest rooms like the Mountain Room are designed like cabins, with plenty of wood, and are replete with cozy beds and sofas to ensure a comfortable stay. Soak in the natural waters of Hachimantai Onsen to rejuvenate yourself after a long day in the snow. The open air bath offers panoramic views of the Hachimantai mountains. Inside the hotel you’ll also find the Nature Guide Station with certified mountain guides, perfect for exploring the area's natural beauty.