Originally Posted by
evergrn
Didn't know that the resort was 3 different areas run by different companies. It's a shame they can't make things more seamless.
Oops, my bad, it's a little worse than that. From powderhounds:
Lifts
Zao Japan has a huge number of lifts considering the size of the resort. The lifts are owned by nine different lift companies who generate revenue based on how many times you ride their particular lifts. They want you to stay on their lifts so negligible planning has gone into the integration of the areas. Commonly you have to travel uphill to transit between zones. Eat all the chocolate macadamias you desire because you’ll burn off plenty of calories skating, poling and walking, especially if there is fresh powder!
Ski Zao Japan - for the Beginner
Beginners should keep a close eye on the trail map because the signposting is not always obvious as to whether you’re about to go down a green, red or black run!
The bolded parts certainly echo my experiences accurately
