The NSD Kids Program: Cultivating Future Snow Riders
The “NSD Kids Program” was established with a heartfelt mission: to reduce the barriers for families introducing their children to the joys of the snow mountains. It offers an environment where families can create unforgettable memories and fall in love with ski resorts. This commitment is particularly vital given the declining trend in children participating in winter sports.
The program provides significant support, including season tickets exclusively for elementary school children and younger, along with seasonal rental equipment. For the 25-26 season, the program has expanded its reach to include Fukui Izumi Ski Resort in Fukui Prefecture. Furthermore, popular Pokémon-designed ski and snowboard equipment, previously available for seasonal rental, will now be offered for day rental at select ski resorts, making the magic of Pokémon accessible to even more young adventurers.
Program Application Details:
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Target Age: 4 to 12 years old (up to 6th grade of elementary school).
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Application Periods & Fees:
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First Recruitment Period: August 4, 2025, to January 31, 2026 (Participation Fee: 1,800 JPY)
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Second Recruitment Period: February 1, 2026, to March 31, 2026 (Participation Fee: 3,500 JPY)
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Note: Online pre-registration is required to join the NSD Kids Program.
Participating Ski Resorts (14 resorts for 25-26 Season):
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Miyagi Prefecture: Miyagi Zao Eboshi Resort (Zao Town)
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Gunma Prefecture: Oguna Hotaka Ski Resort (Katashina Village), Kawaba Ski Resort (Kawaba Village), Marunuma Kogen Ski Resort (Katashina Village)
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Niigata Prefecture: Ishiuchi Maruyama Ski Resort (Minamiuonuma City)
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Nagano Prefecture: Tsugaike Mountain Resort (Otari Village), Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field (Hakuba Village), Hakuba Happo-one Ski Resort (Hakuba Village), Kashimayari Ski Resort Family Park (Omachi City), Ryuoo Ski Park (Yamanouchi Town), Sugadaira Kogen Snow Resort (Ueda City)
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Gifu Prefecture: Meiho Ski Resort (Gujo City)
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Fukui Prefecture: Fukui Izumi Ski Resort (Ono City) (NEW)
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Shiga Prefecture: Biwako Valley Ski Resort (Otsu City)
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For the latest information on participating ski resorts, please visit the official NSD Kids Program website.
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NSD Kids Program Official Website: https://www.nippon-ski.jp/kids/
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UNION Binding Company Official Website: https://jp.unionbindingcompany.com/
This collaboration between NSD, Pokémon, CAPiTA, and UNION is more than just selling snowboards; it’s an investment in the future of winter sports and environmental stewardship. By making high-quality, eco-friendly gear adorned with beloved characters accessible to children, NSD is paving the way for a generation of enthusiastic, nature-loving riders who will carry the spirit of the slopes forward. Such initiatives are crucial for the continued vitality of Japanese ski resorts and for introducing the joy of “kawaii” adventure to a global audience.
