Gate 9 – Waterfall Gate

Location  

Take the Ace Gondola, followed by king hooded sixpack, then ski to the top of Hanazono #2 chairlift where a short walk towards Hirafu will reveal Gate #9. 

Short 5min walk from Hanazono #2 chairlift 

• What is the vertical meter difference. 

725-450 

Terrain 

• What kind of terrain is it, why is it a certain challenge level 

A direct entry from the gate delivers a short, playful line that rejoins Holiday Run and returns toward the Hirafu Gondola. The exit requires momentum to clear the gully before the piste, which can be challenging on flatter sections. 

For a longer descent, continue traversing skier’s left and choose a line that carries further across the face. Staying on the fall line leads deeper into the valley, where the terrain becomes more varied with natural features and creek crossings. The descent narrows into a creek line, where a notable waterfall feature creates a mandatory crossing or requires a detour, depending on coverage and conditions. 

80% trees, 20% open, mixed 70%