Last month saw the first dusting of snow on the upper peaks of the Northern Japan Alps, which could be the sign of the start of an early winter ski season … the Evergreen team are crossing their fingers!
Evergreen Outdoor Center is the premier school in Hakuba for children’s English-language ski and snowboard lessons. Not only do children improve their skiing and snowboarding in a fun environment with international instructors, but parents can relax, have some fun on the slopes themselves, or explore the area.
The Evergreen school is the ideal ski-in, ski-out set-up, comprising an office, meeting area, public toilets, rest area, day-care room, and their very own “Roots Cafe” serving delicious vegetarian food and drinks. And there’s a lift-ticket booth nearby.
New this winter is the “Yeti Club” program, designed with young beginning skiers in mind, and ideal for getting infants on the slopes. Lessons are conducted on the “Magic Carpet” moving walkway. Lessons include a 15-minute shuttle bus ride to and from the magic carpet area, and a break halfway through, where children can warm up with a hot drink.
For slightly more experienced children, there are the Hakuba Heroes Programs, which offer a smooth transition from total beginner skier/snowboarder through to advanced, giving children the opportunity to feel proud of themselves as they see daily skill development. Children are placed into groups based on their level and instructors regularly discuss their progress with ski school managers to ensure that students are always placed in the group most suitable to their needs.
Evergreen’s team of instructors and guides are ready and waiting to guide you and your group or family on some exciting winter adventures. Programs also available for large international schools within Japan and abroad. — JAMES ROBB
