The operators of Japan’s southernmost ski area, Gokase Highland, say it will open this winter despite receiving even fewer skiers last season than it had previously.
The centre has been running at a loss for several seasons, but having publicised its plight and the likelihood of it needing to close, it had seen an increase in skier numbers as well as other kinds of support, including cash gifts from well-wishers, in order to stay open.
Last winter saw poor snow cover, and skier numbers hit an all-time low of 32,000; however, more cash donations to enable continued operations have been received from across Japan. The ski area’s operators, the local municipality, had previously said they needed at least 40,000 visitors in order to keep operating.