Sumikawa Snow park is the highest-elevation ski resort in Miyagi, notable for its off-piste action and hip local flair. The snow is powdery and deep, making for runs so smooth it may feel as if you’ve stopped moving at times. The snow park also offers snowcat vehicle tours to view the snow monsters on the Miyagi side of Mount Zao, otherwise accessible only by a long hike through the snow.

Sumikawa is Miyagi’s best base for backcountry excursions. Naturally, a guide is a must for anyone not thoroughly acquainted with the local terrain and backcountry safety techniques. On-site guide service M’s Guide offers backcountry ski, snowboard, and snowshoe tours that can be customized to accommodate any ability level.

Come green season, the park offers camping and BBQ packages that come complete with equipment and ingredients—convenient even for overseas travelers!