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Ikenotaita Alpen Blick Ski Guide

Ikenotaira Alpen Blick

Ikenotaira Alpen Blick is a mid-sized resort known for its relaxed vibe, wide runs, and easy terrain. It’s especially popular with families and beginner to intermediate riders. The resort is connected to the quiet village of Ikenotaira, which has more accommodation than people expect and a local, less commercial feel.

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Despite being less hyped than Akakura or Suginohara, it gets the same heavy snowfall and is often overlooked on powder days.

Category
Score (1-10)
Snow Quality
8
Groomed Runs
8
Off-Piste
6
On Mountain Food Options
5
Park Terrain
8
Resort Size
6
Lift Infrastructure
6
Lift Layout
6
Beginner Friendly
9
Nightlife
0
Access
6
Value For Money
8

Snow and Terrain

The terrain here is mellow and forgiving, with wide open runs perfect for cruising. There’s a solid tree run area that catches good snow and is often underused.

 

Ikenotaira also has a decent terrain park with mostly jumps and less rail features that get better as the season goes on. It's one of the best sports for park style riding in the Myoko area and a favorite with local park rats. The lift layout is simple and easy to navigate.

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Summary:

  • Wide beginner and intermediate pistes

  • Low-angle powder through the trees

  • Park features and gentle rollers

  • Great visibility on storm days due to tree cover

Lift Tickets

  • There are a few lifts here, mostly older doubles and a central quad. It’s not a fast mountain, but it moves people around well enough for the terrain it offers. The lift layout is simple and easy to navigate.​

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  • 2024–2025 Lift Ticket Prices (Adult):

  • 1-Day Ticket: ¥5,600

  • 2-Day Ticket: ¥10,100

  • 4-Hour Ticket: ¥4,500

  • 1-Day Children Under 13: ¥3,400

  • 1-Day Seniors: ¥4,800

Lessons and Rentals

English-language lessons are not as common here as in Akakura, but a few schools may offer them with prior booking.

 

Rental gear at the base of Ikenotaira is limited, but there’s a shop just by the ski entrance that offers some of the cheapest ski and board rentals in Myoko. Their gear is decent for beginners and intermediates — not premium, but practical and affordable.

Night Skiing

There is no night skiing at Ikenotaira, but the quiet evenings are perfect for relaxing in an onsen or dining out in a more peaceful setting than the busier Akakura village.

Village and Vibe

Ikenotaira village feels quieter and more residential. It’s not dead, but it doesn’t have the same party energy as Akakura. That said, it's a favorite among returning guests who want good snow and fewer crowds.

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English is spoken at most accommodation and rental shops, but you’ll still feel like you’re in Japan.

Accommodation

Ikenotaira offers a mix of small Japanese-run pensions and a few mid-sized hotels. Most are within a short walk or quick drive to the lifts, with some providing guest shuttles. The area is quieter than Akakura, making it a good choice for visitors who want a more low-key base while still being close to the resort.

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Many accommodation will offer some in house dinner services or shuttle guests to restaurants to make up for the slightly inconvient location when it comes to eating out. In some cases, it makes sense to have a rental car.

Onsens and Local Spots

  • LandMark Onsen: a popular public bathhouse with mineral-rich water, located just steps from the base.

  • Lime Resort Onsen: a hotel with an accessible and relaxing onsen for non-guests (ask locally for the public hours).

  • Shin’etsu Hotel: not just a place to stay, they have a solid onsen and a hot spring that's worth stopping by.

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These spots make it easy to soak after skiing, even if you're not staying right next door.

Dining and Bars

There are a handful of restaurants and cafés in the Ikenotaira area, though most lodges include dinner or shuttle guests to restaruants at night.

 

You’ll find simple Japanese meals, katsu curry, ramen, and a few foreigner-friendly options. On weekends, there's excellent coffee served on-mountain and some food stands open at the base.

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Don't expect a party scene, but it’s a calm and cozy vibe at night.

Access and Transportation

From Myoko Kogen Station, Ikenotaira is around 10 minutes by car or shuttle.

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You can stay right near Ikenotaira, with several lodges and guesthouses walking distance from the base. Otherwise, from Myoko Kogen Station, take the town shuttle or arrange transport with your lodge. The area is also accessible by car with parking available.

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​The town shuttle runs to Ikenotaira from Akakura and other major stops in Myoko, though schedules are limited and it’s best to check with your lodging.

Local Tips

  • Some tree runs exist, but it’s not a freeride zone. Stick to marked trails unless you know the terrain well.

  • ​Occasionally on Wednesdays there is a ladies’ day with discounted lift tickets

  • The on-mountain restaurant area is limited and often busy so consider bringing your own snacks or lunch

  • Landmark Onsen has a good restaurant that caters to larger groups though it is noticeably more expensive compared to other authentic local spots

  • If staying in the Ikenotaira area check how your accommodation handles guest shuttle services as it might be easier to rent a car for flexibility

  • Visit the local visitor center to learn more about the region’s environment and culture

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