Manza Onsen, known for its powder snow and as the filming location for a 1987 movie that sparked a ski boom, is facing significant problems this year. The theft of copper cables and materials has severely impacted operations.

The resort, which attracts around 60,000 tourists annually, can only operate two of its five ski lifts this season, as the remaining lifts are out of service due to the thefts.

A spokesperson for the operating company expressed regret over the limitations and pointed out that many guests were looking forward to the ski season. To still offer an experience for tourists, alternatives are being sought.

The thefts were discovered in late September during preparations for the season, when resort staff noticed that copper cables, tools, and faucets had been stolen.

Damage and investigations

The thieves damaged the ski lift electrical equipment and building walls to access the copper cables. The police investigated the scene and found further damage on the ski slopes the next morning, where underground cables had been stolen.

The damage is estimated at at least 3 million yen (about €18,420), with investigators believing that the thieves used trucks and worked in teams.

Copper theft spreads to other regions

The wave of copper thefts is not limited to Manza Onsen. Similar incidents have been reported in other ski resorts and the Kanto region, including the prefectures of Gunma, Tochigi, and Ibaraki.

Solar power plants in Gunma are particularly affected. Between January and November, 1,111 cases of copper theft were registered, representing an increase of 106 cases compared to the previous year.