Makado Onsen Ski Resort, located near Misawa and within an hour's reach, offers a striking view of Mutsu bay, making it a scenic spot for skiing. It is also in close proximity to other picturesque locations, adding to the overall appeal.
The resort boasts a diverse range of slopes, catering to both beginners and advanced skiers. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring everyone, including children, can safely get on and off the ski lift. The resort is especially appreciated for its large eating and resting area, offering a selection of local favorites to enjoy after a day on the slopes.
Despite being less crowded, Makado Onsen is conveniently accessible from Misawa without tolls. The runs can sometimes be a bit icy, especially early in the season, but the resort generally offers a relaxed, fun atmosphere for a chill ski day.
The resort is widely recommended for first-timers in Japan (Aomori Prefecture), particularly for those trying snowboarding or skiing. It offers various levels of hill for practice, and being a small resort, it's an ideal destination for families, with small runs that are great for kids to learn on.
The weather and timing play an essential role in ensuring a comfortable skiing experience, and Makado Onsen often gets it right. The visibility is excellent, and the slopes offer a mixture of gentle and steep sections, suitable for skiers of all levels.
Makado Onsen is also known for its well-maintained courses, with three lifts and an option for night skiing. The resort is beginner-friendly, with lift operators often slowing down the speed for easy boarding and alighting. However, it's worth noting that the first lift for beginners does not operate on weekdays.
Despite being near the sea and having lower mountains compared to other resorts, Makado Onsen still offers a satisfying skiing experience. However, the snow tends to get wet faster, so the best time to visit is usually in January.
Overall, Makado Onsen Ski Resort is a family-friendly, beginner to intermediate skiing destination that offers a fun and safe skiing experience along with beautiful scenic views.