Ensuring Skiable Slopes Even in Warm Winters: Kiso Fukushima Ski Resort Challenges the Future of Snowmaking
nation Inc., operator of Kiso Fukushima Ski Resort, has launched a crowdfunding campaign to install 'Rubis' automatic snowmaking machines to combat declining snowfall. The project aims for 8 million yen to secure sustainable operations for the next 30 years.
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- 📰 Published: April 28, 2026 at 21:00
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nation Inc. (CEO: Shota Iwahori; Kiso Town, Nagano), operator of Kiso Fukushima Ski Resort, is launching a crowdfunding project to introduce 'Rubis' automatic snowmaking machines to maintain a stable resort environment. In recent years, natural snowfall has decreased due to the impact of warm winters, making it difficult to maintain stable slope conditions. Following a project in 2021, this is the second crowdfunding initiative aimed at introducing new snowmaking equipment. The project sets a target of 8 million yen, with plans to install one Rubis machine for every 2 million yen raised. Funds will be used to improve the snowmaking infrastructure of Kiso Fukushima Ski Resort.
Project Overview:
Support funds will be carefully used to install Rubis automatic snowmakers. One machine will be installed per 2 million yen of support to create a stable resort.
Target Amount: 8,000,000 Yen
Operator: nation Inc.
*This project is an All or Nothing system.
About Kiso Fukushima Ski Resort:
Kiso Fukushima Ski Resort has been supported by many skiers as a 'skier-only' resort. Since 2019, nation Inc. has operated it under the concept of 'KISOFUKU TIME.' It offers a superb location with a panoramic view of Mt. Ontake, featuring 8 courses and a maximum skiing distance of 4,600m. It is a medium-sized resort with 4 lifts, catering to everyone from families to competitive skiers. It is also a home base for one of the largest ski schools in Nagano.
Current Challenges:
Stable resort maintenance is becoming difficult due to decreasing snowfall from warm winters. Currently, snowmaking relies on machines over 25 years old and those introduced in 2021. Natural snow alone is insufficient, and the burden on staff is increasing. Particularly on main intermediate courses, it has become difficult to meet user expectations for opening dates and snow quality.
Introduction of Environmentally Friendly Snowmakers:
The 'Rubis' automatic snowmaker to be introduced features:
- No requirement for diesel oil
- Ability to make snow at relatively high temperatures
- High efficiency
Operating this type for four years showed it matches the environment of Kiso Fukushima perfectly. It also reduces staff burden through efficiency.
Toward the Next 30 Years of the Resort:
Kiso Fukushima aims for sustainable resort management for the next 30 years. Providing best-condition slopes at all times and remaining an essential place for ski lovers is the goal of this crowdfunding. We ask for your support to connect Kiso Fukushima Ski Resort to the future.
Project Overview:
Support funds will be carefully used to install Rubis automatic snowmakers. One machine will be installed per 2 million yen of support to create a stable resort.
Target Amount: 8,000,000 Yen
Operator: nation Inc.
*This project is an All or Nothing system.
About Kiso Fukushima Ski Resort:
Kiso Fukushima Ski Resort has been supported by many skiers as a 'skier-only' resort. Since 2019, nation Inc. has operated it under the concept of 'KISOFUKU TIME.' It offers a superb location with a panoramic view of Mt. Ontake, featuring 8 courses and a maximum skiing distance of 4,600m. It is a medium-sized resort with 4 lifts, catering to everyone from families to competitive skiers. It is also a home base for one of the largest ski schools in Nagano.
Current Challenges:
Stable resort maintenance is becoming difficult due to decreasing snowfall from warm winters. Currently, snowmaking relies on machines over 25 years old and those introduced in 2021. Natural snow alone is insufficient, and the burden on staff is increasing. Particularly on main intermediate courses, it has become difficult to meet user expectations for opening dates and snow quality.
Introduction of Environmentally Friendly Snowmakers:
The 'Rubis' automatic snowmaker to be introduced features:
- No requirement for diesel oil
- Ability to make snow at relatively high temperatures
- High efficiency
Operating this type for four years showed it matches the environment of Kiso Fukushima perfectly. It also reduces staff burden through efficiency.
Toward the Next 30 Years of the Resort:
Kiso Fukushima aims for sustainable resort management for the next 30 years. Providing best-condition slopes at all times and remaining an essential place for ski lovers is the goal of this crowdfunding. We ask for your support to connect Kiso Fukushima Ski Resort to the future.