In 2023 many accidents and avalanches occurred due to a lack of preparation by backcountry users, resulting in accidents throughout the season, tragically ending by the death of three people that same year.
We strongly ask all our backcountry enthusiasts to prepare thoroughly before enjoying outside the boundaries of Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort !

For users entering back-country zone : Self-Responsability Area

If you wish to leave the Ski Resort managed area and access the backcountry, please use the access gates at the top of Yamabiko ski area and only those.

These gates are the boundary between the ski resort’s managed domain and unpatrolled back-country zone called Self-Responsibility Area
When leaving the Ski Resort management area please ensure that you close the gate behind you.
※Ducking under the ropes is strictly PROHIBITED※

Access point 1
Located at the top of A course
on the left hand side of the Yamabiko 4 lift summit station

Access point 2
Located at the top of D/E course
on the right hand side of the Yamabiko 4 lift summit station

※Warning※
The area beyond this point is outside the ski resort management area.
No safety controls or regulations are in place. In the event of an accident or distress, such as an avalanche, the ski area patrol will not be able to conduct a rescue. The ski area is not responsible for any accidents or injuries that occur.
For safety reasons, it is forbidden to return to the controlled area after operating hours.

・YOU ARE LEAVING THE NOZAWA ONSEN SKI RESORT BOUNDARY
・NOT PATROLLED OR MAINTAINED BEYOND THIS POINT
・THIS IS YOUR FINAL DECISION POINT
・YOU COULD DIE

Entry reports can be dropped off at the ski resort’s Patrol Station but are not required to leave the ski resort management area.
This report is to provide information to the relevant authorities in the event of an incident BUT does not mean the ski resort will take any responsibility for any back-country activities.
It is intended to provide information to relevant authorities so that, in the event of an emergency, search efforts can be initiated promptly.
If a rescue request is made to the relevant authorities, substantial search and rescue costs may be incurred.
Depending on the circumstances, search and rescue operations may not be possible.
However, we strongly recommend that you fill it out and submit it to the Nagasaka Information Center or one of the Patrol Stations.