Snowshoe Special Week 2026

Find Your Perfect Pair: Snowshoe Special Week 2026

This winter, discover the joy of walking across fresh snow at Snowshoe Special Week 2026 in Iiyama. Over two weeks at the serene Nabekura Highlands, visitors can compare and test snowshoes from four leading brands—MSR, TSL, Tubbs, and Montbell—all in one place. Whether you are purchasing your first pair or refining your winter gear, this hands-on experience offers a rare opportunity to feel the differences for yourself in real mountain conditions.

After a short introduction to each brand’s features and proper use, participants can head out onto the snowy fields of Nabekura Kogen – Mori no Ie to try them in action. Notice how they handle on powder, slopes, and forest paths, and find the model that truly suits your stride.

Event Details

Dates:
February 28 (Sat) – March 15 (Sun), 2026
Closed on Tuesdays

Time:
9:00am – 4:30pm

Venue:
Nabekura Highlands – Mori no Ie (Iiyama City, Nagano)

Fee:
¥500 / 2 hours
One exchange allowed within rental time

• Compare four manufacturers in a single visit

• Staff explanations on features and recommended use

• Test on open highland terrain and forest trails

• Ideal for beginners and experienced snow hikers alike

Special Guided Tours During the Period

In addition to the trial experience, guided snowshoe tours are held throughout the event. Join while testing your gear and explore the winter landscape with confidence.

• Forest Snowshoe Short Tour (Beginner Friendly)
  Daily during the period (except severe weather)
  1:30pm – 3:00pm
  Fee: ¥1,500
  Distance: Approx. 1km
  Eligibility: Elementary school age and above
  A gentle introduction covering how to walk, turn, and recover from a fall—perfect for first-timers.

• Makimine via Shinetsu Trail
  March 7 (Sat)
  8:30am – 3:30pm
  Fee: ¥6,500 (includes snowshoe and pole rental)
  Distance: Approx. 8km
  Eligibility: Junior high school age and above
  Advance reservation required.
  A rewarding route to a 962m ridge with sweeping views—on clear days, even the Sea of Japan.

• Mt. Nabekura Summit Tour
  March 8 (Sun) & March 15 (Sun)
  8:30am – 4:00pm
  Fee: ¥6,500 (includes snowshoe and pole rental)
  Distance: Approx. 9km
  Eligibility: Junior high school age and above
  Advance reservation required.
  An invigorating ascent to the highest peak of Nabekura Highlands, passing through impressive beech forests along the way.

Notes

• Weather conditions may affect tour operation.

• Please wear suitable winter clothing and waterproof footwear.

• Advance booking is required for designated tours.

Contact

Nabekura Highlands – Mori no Ie
1571-15 Teruo, Iiyama City, Nagano 389-2601, Japan
Tel: +81-269-69-2888
Website: http://nabekura.net/