Japan ski resorts are raising ski lift pass prices to stay afloat amid surging energy costs.
The Togakushi Ski Area in Nagano recently hiked daily lift passes from ¥4,500 to ¥5,000.
Hokkaido’s Rusutsu Resort raised the price by ¥2,300 to ¥8,800.
“This price hike alone isn’t enough to cover the cost for necessary maintenance and replacements of facilities,” said Togakushi Ski Area.
Ski resort owners fear they are losing their competitive edge.
Lift passes at Japan ski resorts have long be cheaper than in other countries.
Operators are looking for ways to attract new customers with local offers and ski free days.
According to the Japan Tourism Agency, lift passes are still cheaper than in many North American and European ski resorts.
