Promoting in-depth winter tourism: Akita Prefecture Ski Federation partners with Taiwan Ski & Grass Skiing Association

Reported by You T-Ru / Taipei

Taiwan’s winter tourism has gradually shifted toward in-depth experiences over the past decade. While Hokkaido was previously the top choice for snow enthusiasts, the development of new destinations by specialized Taiwanese ski travel agencies has led to an annual increase of over 20% in the skiing population. This success has caught the attention of various Japanese prefectures and local ski resorts. The Akita Prefecture Ski Federation specially came to Taiwan and today (19th) formed an alliance with the Republic of China Ski & Grass Skiing Association, signing a friendship agreement. In the future, they will promote more ski tours in the Tohoku region.


▲ The Akita Prefecture Ski Federation and the Republic of China Ski & Grass Skiing Association form an alliance.

Taiwan’s winter skiing population has surpassed 10,000, opening up a new frontier for professional ski tourism in Japan. Japanese prefectures are eager to attract Taiwanese skiers, and the Akita Prefecture Ski Federation specifically chose to partner with the Republic of China Ski & Grass Skiing Association. In addition to promoting the Tajima Lake Ski Resort and Nyuto Onsen in Akita Prefecture to Taiwanese visitors, the federation also aims to provide competitive ski training opportunities. As a result, both parties signed the “Ski Friendship Agreement.”

Beyond the well-known Hokkaido, other destinations such as Iwate Prefecture in the Tohoku region, and Niigata and Nagano in the Hokuriku region have become hotspots for ski tourism. In the future, there are hopes to increase the number of professional ski tours and also appeal to independent ski travelers, making Akita Prefecture—not just a place for autumn foliage—a desirable winter ski destination for Taiwanese. In addition to the Tajima Lake Ski Resort, the area also boasts the nationally renowned “Nyuto Onsen,” allowing skiers to unwind after a day on the slopes. Tajima Lake is also very accessible, just a 30-minute bus ride from Tajima Lake Station on the JR Akita Shinkansen.


▲ Tajima Lake Ski Resort. (Photo provided by the operator)
%The photo shows the Tajima Lake Ski Resort. (Taiwan reporter You T-Ru photo)