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Hakuba Goryu

55 Years of Goryu

From humble beginnings to a world-class resort, discover how Hakuba Goryu’s story unfolded over 55 years.

1970s

Goryu Toomi Kaihatsu Co., Ltd. established

The company behind early resort development is founded.

Kamishiro No. 4 Lift constructed

One of the earliest lifts shaping access to the slopes.

Champion Lift No. 1 constructed

Expansion continues with new uphill capacity.

First 4-seater gondola in Asia (Telecabin, 2005 m)

A landmark project that raises capacity and comfort.

Construction of Jizo 1st Lift

Opening more terrain in the upper zones.

Avalanche accident

Dam constructed under the Woody Course for disaster prevention.

Major avalanche accident

Damage to facilities: collapse of Telecabin and lift support pillars (no fatalities). Reported in national newspapers.

A defining challenge that reinforced Goryu's commitment to safety and operational excellence.

1980s

Toomi No. 1 Pair Lift constructed

New lift on the Toomi slope enhances base-area laps.

Restaurant Alps 360 built

A new mountaintop dining icon at Alps-Daira.

Toomi Sky Four high-speed lift; night skiing added

Capacity and hours expand with a new express lift and lighting.

Start of the Heisei era

A new imperial era begins in Japan.

1990s

Escal Plaza ski center opened

A modern base for services, rentals, and dining.

First snow machines installed at Toomi slope

3 fully automatic + 4 self-propelled Ebara units; water tank constructed.

Snow machine installation
Ground construction

Joint ticket with Hakuba 47 established

Interlinked access strengthens the valley experience.

Great Hanshin–Awaji Earthquake

A national disaster that impacted communities across Japan.

Gondola upgraded to 8-seater

More capacity and comfort to reach Alps-Daira.

Snowboarding permitted (night & spring)

Limited access marks early adoption for riders.

Nagano Winter Olympics & Paralympics

A global spotlight on the Hakuba valley.

Snowboarding fully permitted resort-wide

All areas open to snowboarders.

2000s

Development of the Alpine Botanical Garden on Alps-Daira begins

Foundations for today’s alpine botanic program.

The Bell of Happiness selected as the first “Lovers’ Sanctuary”

Company renamed Goryu Co., Ltd.; ISO 14001 certified

Environmental management standard achieved.

2010s

Alpine Botanical Garden established (renamed)

International alpine flowers section opens (Blue Poppy, Edelweiss, etc.).

Great East Japan Earthquake

A nationwide tragedy with lasting impacts.

Natural hot springs introduced; baths remodeled into Ryujin no Yu

A relaxing hot-spring experience at the base.

Nagano Kamishiro Fault Earthquake

A local event felt across the valley.

Start of the Reiwa era

A new era begins.

Partnership with Protect Our Winters Japan

Collaborating to advance climate action in snowsports.

2020s

COVID-19 State of Emergency declared

Operations adapt to evolving health guidelines.

Night skiing powered by 100% renewable energy

A milestone for sustainability at night operations.

Tokyo 2020 Olympics & Paralympics hosted

Japan hosts the Summer Games after a pandemic delay.

The birth of GORYU WAVES

A unique terrain feature that brings rhythm, flow, and variety to the fun of riding Goryu’s slopes.

Resort goes 100% Renewable.

Switches to source all of its facilities’ electricity from renewable energy.

Noto Peninsula Earthquake

A major regional disaster; nationwide response efforts.

New eco-initiatives

100% LED lighting for night skiing facilities; eco-friendly staff uniforms introduced.

Official Merger

“Able Hakuba Goryu” and “Able Hakuba Goryu IIMORI” operations unified under Goryu Co., Ltd.

Certified as a Nationally Certified Sustainably Managed Natural Site

Hakuba Goryu Alpine Botanical Garden becomes the first ski resort in Japan to earn this certification.