On February 22nd (Sunday), 2026, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Unazuki Snow Park in Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture, will host the first snow luge (wooden sled) free trial event in the Hokuriku region.
The Olympic sport of luge comes from the French word meaning "wooden sled."
The organizing Japan Wooden Sled Association aims to establish wooden sled culture in Japan, popular in Europe, and elevate Japan to compete with European powerhouse nations. Operating under the concept of "first, we want many Japanese people to know the fun of sleds," the association is promoting this sport nationwide.
Snow luge (wooden sled) is gaining attention across Japan as a new winter sport that anyone can enjoy from the very first day, even without special skills or experience.
Bringing New Energy to a Historic Ski Resort
Unazuki Snow Park is a historic ski resort that has been operating since the Taisho era (1912-1926).
However, in recent years, like many winter sports facilities, it faces the challenge of declining visitor numbers due to decreased interest in winter sports.
This trial event was planned with the hope of "creating another opportunity for people to visit snowy mountains" through snow luge (wooden sled), which can be easily enjoyed by those with no skiing or snowboarding experience.
Unazuki Snow Park: An Ideal Field for Snow Luge
Unazuki Snow Park features:
- Wide, groomed runs
- Gentle slopes safe for beginners
- Forest courses that perfectly match the snow luge atmosphere
Despite being a small-scale ski resort, it offers an ideal environment for experiencing snow luge (wooden sled).
Relax in Hot Springs After Playing
At the base of the ski resort lies the nationally renowned Unazuki Onsen hot spring town.
After getting active with snow luge, visitors can soak in hot springs to relax and relieve fatigue—enjoying a day unique to Unazuki is one of the event's attractions.
Future Plans Include "Sori-1 JAPAN" Championship Series
Looking ahead, the association plans to hold the championship series "Sori-1 JAPAN" to promote snow luge (wooden sled) and create a competitive culture.
As the first step, why not experience the fun of snow luge at this free, no-registration-required trial event?
Event Overview
- Event Name: Snow Luge (Wooden Sled) Free Trial Event
- Date: February 22nd (Sunday), 2026
- Time: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Venue: Unazuki Snow Park (Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture)
- Participation Fee: Free
- Registration: Not required (come directly to the venue on the day)
- Access: Accessible via free lift from Unazuki Onsen town
Recommended For
- Those with no skiing or snowboarding experience
- Families with small children
- Anyone wanting to try a new winter activity
- Those who want to enjoy snow play combined with hot springs
