Manza Onsen

“During my visit to Manza Onsen in late February 2023, I found the age verification for senior lift tickets at the counter quite strict. However, I appreciated the convenience of being able to purchase lift tickets using local coupons from Gunma Prefecture. I was pleased with the snow quality, especially after a day of snowfall. Although the Prince slope was slightly coarse, the Mt. Manza ski slope was well maintained and open for use by 11am. Practice on the Prince Slope was as expected, with bump training next to the lift. The slope's mild gradient is suitable for children, making it a family-friendly resort. For meals, I noticed that the Prince Hotel restaurants have raised their lunch prices. However, Alyeska, a log house restaurant, offered a more affordable option, although the competition for seats was high. Overall, the resort posed little to no waiting times for lifts, making it a delightful local ski resort. In my previous visit in February 2022, I noted that the ski slope used to extend all the way to the end of Nisshinkan. Now, the main area lies in front of Prince. The steep slope damaged by a landslide has been fixed, and due to the high altitude, the snow quality remains excellent. Manza Onsen's hot springs are fantastic, but the distance from any major interchange, along with the cost of the Manza Highway, may deter some visitors. However, this does result in less crowded slopes, allowing for a more relaxed skiing experience. My only concern is the future of the resort, given that Seibu has sold the hotel and ski resort.”

“I had an exceptional experience at Manza Onsen, where I was introduced to the finest powder snow. It certainly lived up to its reputation.”

“My experience at Manza Onsen was enjoyable. It boasts a compact slope, perfect for those with a basic skiing ability, given its direct connection to the Prince Hotel. One does, however, need some beginner's level skiing skills to navigate from the hotel to the lift. The lift ticket office offers a promotion allowing you access to day trip bathing at Prince and Takagen Hotel for a small fee. The Takahara Hotel is conveniently located just a short three-minute walk from the parking lot. I was pleased to find that Wi-Fi was readily available, consistent with what's offered at other Prince hotels. I appreciated the toll road being unmanned and toll-free if you pass through before 7 a.m. on weekdays. The availability of restrooms at night was also a plus. On occasion, I found sleeping in my car comfortable and hassle-free.”

“I was thoroughly impressed by the exceptional hot springs at Manza Onsen. The hot spring was quite intense, distinguished by a strong sulfur odor that left me feeling refreshed. The high altitude of the location offers excellent snow quality, perfect for enjoying a powder tree run after a snowfall. The ski resort might be compact, but its layout makes for a smooth transition between lifts. For a satisfying meal, Manzatei Restaurant Takenoko at the D lift platform is highly recommended. Although it doesn't feature in the official guide, as it's not technically part of the ski resort, the food is abundant and delicious. I remember ordering a large bowl of curry and was pleasantly surprised when I received an entire bowl of curry separate from the rice. It was a humorous and delightful experience. The establishment may have updated its serving style since then.”