Minami Furano is a family-friendly ski resort that provides an excellent environment for beginners, with a wide slope and favorable conditions. The resort also offers a unique feature where patrons may take sleds on the ski lift, providing endless fun for kids and adults alike. However, be prepared for the thrill as the sleds can pick up quite some speed, adding an adventurous twist to your skiing experience.
The resort has two lifts, a single and a double, both without safety bars, that have been carefully maintained since their creation in the early 1980s. For those new to skiing or snowboarding, the staff are accommodating and will allow you to walk off with your equipment if necessary. The resort has a compact layout, making it cozy and perfect for younger guests. Despite its modest size, the resort's slopes offer a good gradient and are wide enough to accommodate ground tricks without interruption from other skiers.
While the resort is great for beginners and intermediate skiers, it may not be the best choice for professionals as the higher level slopes are not as impressive. The resort also has some limitations such as the very top not being open and the top course being a bit challenging to navigate. Moreover, the resort does not offer equipment rentals, hence visitors are required to bring their own gear.
The resort also offers reasonable lift tickets along with a cafeteria that serves a variety of meals such as ramen and curry. However, it's worth noting that there have been reports of discrepancies in the opening hours and lift ticket timings, which may cause minor inconvenience. Some visitors have also reported rough conditions on the slopes with pebbles and uneven terrain that could potentially damage equipment.
In conclusion, Minami Furano is a cozy, budget-friendly ski resort perfect for beginners or families looking for a fun day out in the snow. It offers good facilities and a unique sled-ride experience, however, it does have some limitations that need to be kept in mind while planning your visit.