4 Recommended Japanese Ski Resorts: Easily Accessible by Train from Tokyo!

A must-see for those who want to enjoy skiing or snowboarding in Japan!
Explore Japan’s top ski resorts easily accessible by train.
Why not experience the joy of winter in Japan?

1. Niigata : GALA Yuzawa Ski Resort

The GALA Yuzawa ski resort is known for its excellent accessibility!
It is directly connected to Gala-Yuzawa Station, and you can rent all the necessary ski and snowboarding items there.
You enjoy winter sports on a one-day trip with just the Shinkansen bullet train and without needing to bring anything with you.

  • Address: 1039-2 Kayadaira, Yuzawa-cho, Minamiuonuma-gun, Niigata
  • Access: Directly connected to Gala-Yuzawa Station on the Joetsu Shinkansen Line or accessible via shuttle bus from Echigo-Yuzawa Station on the Joetsu Shinkansen Line.
    • ※Note: Gala-Yuzawa Station operates only during winter (information accurate as of publication date).
  • Official website: https://gala.co.jp/winter/english/



2. Niigata : Joetsu International Ski Resort

The Joetsu International Ski Resort is a vast snow resort!
The ski resort features 4 distinct areas with a total of 22 diverse courses for you to explore.

Plus, there's always something exciting happening with various events organized every month to ensure both adults and children have a fantastic time!

  • Address : 112-1, Kabanosawa, Minamiuonuma City, Niigata
  • Access: Right next to Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort Station on the JR Joetsu Line (the ski slopes are right in front)
  • Official website: https://jkokusai.co.jp/ski/
    • ※Only Japanese website is available.



3. Nagano : Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Area

The Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort offers a wide variety of courses suitable for skiers of all levels, from beginners to advanced.
Additionally, there is a dedicated park and school for children. Moreover, elementary school students can enjoy free lift tickets, making it an ideal destination for families!



4. Nagano : Togari Onsen Ski Resort

Togari Onsen Ski Resort is well-known for its wide variety of courses and excellent location, with the Chikuma River right below.
As the name suggests, there is a hot spring right next to the slopes, making it an attractive place to refresh yourself after skiing or snowboarding!

  • Address : 6356-Ni, Oaza-Toyoda, Iiyama City, Nagano
  • Access: Approximately a 5-minute bus ride from Togari-Nozawa Onsen Station on the JR Iiyama Line.
  • Official website: https://togari.jp/winter/en/



Summary


We've handpicked four awesome ski resorts for you to check out!
Don't forget to visit each resort's official website for the latest slope conditions. And here's a pro tip:

Use "Ekispert" to find the best routes, including the super-fast Shinkansen bullet train.
It's a game-changer for planning your trip, so make sure to take advantage of this awesome service!