Mt. Naeba Winter Escapade

Prepping his gear for the big snow trip.

Enroute to Niigata Prefecture, our morning drive was full of beautiful views .

The drastic change in atmosphere after about 2 hours into the drive. The marquis informs drivers to switch to tire chains from this point.

The powder snow and white landscape was a refreshing change from the metropolis Tokyo scene. We spent two nights and three days at Naeba Prince Resort beginning on January 1st. Since we decided to drive and knowing there would be snowy road conditions, Rodney had the car prepped with new snow tires. Unbelieveably, there was no traffic throughout the entire sunny voyage until we reached the mountainous region of Niigata Prefecture. Literally, we drove into a mountain tunnel and came out the other side to a blizzard. Mind you, the tunnel was nearly and kilometre long. Cars were stopped along side of the road strapping on the tire chains. From that point we drove mountainside up through the winding roads as Rodney eased his way around the sharp bends. I admit I was a bit nervous while we drove alongside the expanse of mountains and deep cliffs that boardered the snowy road. I think if it weren't for the cliffs, these road conditions wouldn't be anything too much to worry about since we've survived worse winters back in our hometown. I had the weird sensation of feeling really small next to the enormous mountains. When Markus finally woke up in the car, he was beyond surprised to see all the snow out the window. I was certain he remembered playing in the snow last year, since making snow balls was the only thing on his mind. Before long, we arrived safely at our destination.

Finally, after checking in to our room, we dropped off our luggage, quickly bundled up, and headed for the slopes. It was about 10:30am by then, so we had plenty of time to enjoy the snow for a couple of hours until we headed in for lunch. The resort offered several types of restaurants; we opted for the western-style buffet which offered a large variety and also had the best views of the mountains. We dined while watching skiers and snowboarders plow through the snow. After lunch, I picked up my rental skies and headed out again for a few more hours of fun. Rodney had already snowboarded down a few times. At the bottom of the runs, were fenced off areas for families to ride sleds and play in the snow. That was where we alternated taking turns watching and playing with Markus, while the other went down the runs. Several ski lifts meant no long waiting to get up the mountains. It worked out well. Though it was cold and snowing hard, Markus didn't seem to mind the least bit. He was overjoyed!






This was seriously too much fun! I was surprised by how much speed we picked up. Markus loved the rush! He laughed and screamed each time we went down.

The Dragondola

The photo above was taken at one of the highest points of Mt. Naeba - 2,221 metres high. We took a gondola up the mountain, which was about a 15-minute ride.

There was a small restaurant at the top where we took a coffee break, then Rodney snowboarded while Markus and I rode the gondola back down. It was extremely windy up there and the high altititude made me feel a bit queasy.

"Gambatte daddy...see you at the bottom of the hill!"

The heavy snowfall from the night before made for perfect packing snow the next morning. Rodney and Markus spent hours building forts, while I skied down the hills a few times.

Adding some final touches to secure the roof from caving in.

An emergency exit...just incase.

By the time the fort was finished, it attracted a few guests.

Thrilled by the monster snow ATV. He was begging me to turn it on so he could ride.

I think this was a more suitable option than the above.

The gorgeous view looking down toward the resort hotels

To celebrate the New Year, there were fireworks displayed each evening at 10 P.M., over the main slopes facing the hotel. We had a great view from The Whistler Cafe; a Canadian-themed venue. At first, the loud banging sounds freaked Markus out. He huddled under the table for a bit until I convinced him that it was okay. He said, "Bikurishita mommy!", an expression which mean he was surprised or caught off guard. Finally captivated by the brilliant colours in the sky, he managed to enjoy the last minute of the show.

At The Whistler Cafe

He makes it look so easy

All tired out!









Gee, I like how this camera almost makes me look like a pro...heehee!

Markus wanting badly to get on Rodney's board!

What a great way to start the year! We had an incredible time during the three days in Mt. Naeba's winter wonderland. I have to say we were impressed by the amenities and family atmosphere it offered. The food was good and the heated pool was also a relaxing treat from being out in the cold all day. Special thanks to my good friend, Hiromi-san for the recommendation.

By the last day, we were pretty worn out. Markus nearly slept the entire ride home. Unfortunately, we had terrible gridlock traffic with folks heading back into Tokyo from their holiday trips. It had to be expected, I guess. It is after all, Tokyo.