Hit the Slopes Near Tokyo
Do you have days when you wake up in that chaotic city of Tokyo and crave a boost of adrenaline amongst Mother Nature? We all do! And you don’t have to go far for your quick retreat, bundle up because there are multiple places to ski near Tokyo! If you are a last-minute traveler, and always looking for a getaway on long weekends, these ski resorts near Tokyo are your best bet! You don’t have to pre-plan an entire itinerary or even book flights- just pack in your ski boots, neck warmers, and goggles and head to one of these places to ski near Tokyo. If you are one of those who’d rather rent equipment, don’t worry, these ski resorts have you covered.
So if you are ready to ski away with your family and loved ones, here is a list of some places to ski near Tokyo that are accessible, fun and filled with activities.
Enjoy Frosty Flakes and Skiing Near Tokyo
Gala Yuzawa
If you are aching for a quick ski trip near Tokyo, take a Shinkansen ride to GALA Yuzawa, just 75 minutes away from the city, making it one of the closest ski resorts to Tokyo. Located in the snow haven of Niigata, this ski resort near Tokyo is perfect for families and individuals alike. Pick from 17 ski trails that are spread across Gala Yuzawa, Yuzawa Kogen, and Ichouchi Maruyama fields; there is a little something for beginners and pros too.
Once done skiing, there are multiple attractions here making it among the best ski resorts near Tokyo. If you love a good view, head to the observation decks in the central and north areas of the resort that boast picturesque vistas. There is more - a cosy hot spring inn with an open-air bath and the chance to savour the famed Niigata sake.
Pro-tip for beginners: The gondolas get exceptionally crowded during the peak hours so make sure you take account of that extra time.
Location: Minamiuonuma District, Niigata (map)
How to get there: By train, take the Joetsu Shinkansen Tanigawa to Gala Yuzawa from Tokyo Station.
Season dates: Till May 6, 2024
Opening hours: Every day, 7am to 7:15pm
Fujiyama Snow Resort
Which ski field near Tokyo has the best view? Here’s a hint: it’s set against the majestic backdrop of Mt. Fuji and an hour and 53 minutes away from Tokyo via bus and train and is among the best ski resorts close to Tokyo.
If you are still scratching your head, let us reveal the answer to you. Fujiyama Snow Resort is located at the second station of Mt. Fuji and is among the few ski areas near Tokyo that are the first to kick off the ski season. There is a whole lot to do here besides the postcard-perfect views of Mt. Fuji; there are four ski slopes that are perfect for skiers and snowboarders.
Additionally, two slopes are family-friendly so your little ones can also enjoy this winter wonderland. Besides being a great ski resort near Tokyo for families, Fujiyama Snow Resort is right by the Gotemba Premium Shopping Outlets. Home to 290 outlet stores, it is one of the largest shopping centres in Japan; with brands ranging from Adidas to Coach, allowing travellers to unwind with a little retail therapy after skiing.
Location: 〒410-1231 Shizuoka, Susono, Suyama, 字藤原2428 (map)
How to get there: Take the Shinkansen to Mishima station from Tokyo station, followed by a 71-minute bus to the resort.
Season dates: Till March 31, 2024
Opening hours: Weekdays, 10am to 10pm, Weekends and Public Holidays, 9am to 10pm
Sayama Indoor Skiing Resort
If 2024 is the year you have decided that your kids learn how to hit the snow with some skiing or it's your first time venturing into the world of skiing, look no further than Sayama Snow Resort, a great ski resort near Tokyo for families. An indoor resort with a 300-metre-long slope equipped with two single lifts, Sayama is a great place for beginners to learn some basic skiing techniques. Situated in Tokorozawa City, Sayama was renovated in 2020 where the 300m slope replaced traditional ski lifts with a modern escalator system, including the 110m Lina Way and the 84m Leo Way sections. And there is a lot more to kids than just skiing; from a kids’ snow park complete with sleds to even a bouncy castle and seasonal events like treasure hunts and snowball fights, the fun is never-ending.
Pro-tip: In case you don’t own ski gear, don’t worry because you can easily rent out the latest gear and stylish ski wear and also choose from a variety of lesson programs tailored to different skill levels.
Location: 2167 Kamiyamaguchi, Tokorozawa, Saitama 359-1153, Japan (map)
How to get there: Take the Seibu line to Seibu Kyujo-mae station from Tokyo station, followed by a 3-minute walk to the resort
Season dates: Till March 31, 2024
Opening hours: Every day, 10am to 9pm
Maiko Snow Resort
Ready for a snowy adventure? Maiko Snow Resort is among the best ski resorts close to Tokyo and boasts the longest ski slope that stretches 6 kilometres. With 26 diverse ski courses spread across three areas, this snow resort is perfect for adventure lovers. For regular skiers and pros, the Okusoechi area has eight courses with rugged terrain. For those who love a view, the Nagamine area has five courses offering breathtaking snowy views and the longest slope. And this ski resort is great for little ones too as the Maiko area comes with a kids' park and an easy sled-only course.
There is a lot more one can do here; visitors have access to a bubbling hot spring, a kids’ room, and a one-of-a-kind nap room. If all that activity tires you out, head to the Tree House in the Maiko Area, where if you are lucky you may spot wild animal tracks in the snow. And if you get hungry, enjoy the resort’s local delights that include the 'koshihikari' brand rice harvested from the lush green rice fields during the green season. Maiko is definitely a great ski resort near Tokyo for the family.
Location: 2056-108 Maiko, Minamiuonuma, Niigata 949-6423, Japan (map)
How to get there: Take the Shinkansen to Echigo-Yuzawa station from Tokyo station, followed by a 20-minute free shuttle bus to the resort
Season dates: Till March 31, 2024
Opening Hours: Weekdays: 8.30am to 5pm, Weekends and Public Holidays: 8am to 5pm, Night Skiing: 4pm to 8pm.
Norn Minakami Ski Resort
Have you ever imagined skiing under the stars, in the dark of the night? Norn Minakami, one of the best ski resorts near Tokyo, is your perfect opportunity to ski through the after-hours, until 10 pm. They also offer early morning and twilight passes for those advanced skiers who like to experience it all. The ski resort has five slopes, a good mix of challenges and easy inclines for the pros and the beginners alike, including children. There are ski lessons for three-year-olds and a family-friendly Norn Minakami Snow PlayLand complete with snowball-making kits and trampolines.
If you want to do something more than skiing, the resort has tree-lined trails for snowboarding, spring narcissus blooms, and even summer camping adventures. Now all this activity is bound to make you hungry but worry not as you can choose from five onsite restaurants that will fuel you up in no time. All in all, Norn Minakami is a mix of everything, making it a ski resort near Tokyo that is perfect for families.
Location: 479-139 Terama, Minakami, Tone District, Gunma 379-1614, Japan (map)
How to get there: Take the Shinkansen to Jomo-Kogen station from Tokyo station, followed by a 20-minute shuttle bus to the resort
Season dates: Till March 24, 2024
Opening hours: Mondays to Thursdays, Sundays, and Public Holidays: 7am to 10pm. Fridays, Saturdays, and days before Public Holidays: 7am to 12am
Fujiten Ski Resort
Skiing at Fujiten Ski Resort is an exciting affair since most of your photos will feature the iconic Mt. Fuji in the background. One of the best ski resorts near Tokyu, Fujiten has seven courses for beginners and ski pros, a snow park that comes complete with a "Chibikko (kids) Island '' for young children. Of the courses, there are two 1300-metre-long courses for beginners and a 500-metre family slope. Fujiten is among the best ski resorts near Tokyo owing to its variety of activities for young adventure lovers like skiing and snowboarding, proximity to Mt. Fuji and challenging courses for thrill seekers.
Location: Japan, 〒401-0320 Yamanashi, Minamitsuru District, Narusawa, 字富士山8545-1 (map)
How to get there: Bus to Kawaguchiko station from Shinjuku’s Expressway Bus Terminal, followed by a 20-minute taxi to the resort
Season dates: Till early April 2024
Opening hours: Weekdays: 8.30am to 5pm. Weekends and Public Holidays: 8am to 5pm
Naeba Ski Resort
If you’re in the mood to ski and celebrate, head to Naeba Ski Resort. One of Japan’s largest and most popular resorts, Naeba celebrates its 50th anniversary this ski season so expect some fireworks. Naeba Ski Resort is part of the expansive "Mt. Naeba" area, boasting two ski areas. But if you feel like stepping away, make sure you hop on the 'Dragondola,' Japan's longest cable car that will take you to the nearby Kagura Ski Resort.
Unlike the other ski resorts near Tokyo, Naeba Ski Resort is also home to a multitude of celebratory activities including the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup and Japan’s largest rock festival, Fuji Rock Festival, a one-of-a-kind musical extravaganza set against the backdrop of mountains that will be held from 26th -28th of July, 2024. For boarding, the Naeba Prince Hotel at the base of the ski area comes with fine dining, shopping and hot springs. While staying during peak ski season promises crowds, it is also the time when you can witness a beautiful fireworks display, making it all worthwhile.
Location: 202 Mikuni, Yuzawa, Minamiuonuma District, Niigata 949-6212, Japan (map)
How to get there: Take the Shinkansen to Echigo-Yuzawa station from Tokyo station, followed by a 50-minute bus to the resort
Season dates: Till April 07, 2024
Opening hours: Every day, 8am to 5pm. Night Skiing, 4pm to 8.30pm.
A Little Something to Make Your Skiing Trip More Fun
Ready to snowboard and ski at these snow resorts near Tokyo? Hold on for just a minute, here’s a list of things that may come in handy.
Hot Springs with a Side of Mt. Fuji
A snowy adventure awaits you at Mount Fuji Yeti Ski Resort. Enjoy snowball fights, ski slopes and hot springs along with a picturesque view of the mighty Mount Fuji.
Seamless Connectivity in Japan
Don’t miss out on giving your loved ones your updates from your trip to Japan; get the IIJmio Total Data eSIM and get access to the internet while you travel.
Glide Down the Slopes of Hokkaido
Get ready for an adventurous day of skiing at the Sapporo International Ski Resort in Hokkaido. Enjoy the beautiful snowing landscapes surrounding the area or pick a snow activity like snowshoe hiking, snowmobiling, or even cross-country skiing. Fuel up at the nearby restaurants and cafes and have the most memorable adventure ever.
Your Tokyo Day Trip Awaits
Get ready for an epic day trip from Tokyo to Gunma, where you'll find the Fukiware Falls. Dive into some fruit-picking local orchards, treating your taste buds to seasonal fruits. And make sure to visit the lavender gardens, try sledging, and enjoy the Ikaho Onsen Street walks.
Hit the Snowy Slopes Near Tokyo
Oprah Winfrey once said, "Skiing is the next best thing to having wings'' and we couldn’t agree more! With so many ski and onsen options near Tokyo for individuals and families alike, it’s best to pack and make your way to snowy slopes. And with Pelago by Singapore Airlines by your side, you can choose from a wide variety of activities and snow resorts.
Remember that the closest ski resorts to Tokyo come equipped with rental options, restaurants, shopping, and even a little something for your little ones. Carve the slopes with the iconic Mt. Fuji in the distance or simply take a gondola ride over snowy cliffs but make it a winter getaway to remember with some of the cheapest ski resorts near Tokyo. Your next skiing adventure near Tokyo awaits.
Commonly Asked Questions
What is the closest ski field to Tokyo?
The Joetsu Shinkansen line swiftly links Tokyo and Yuzawa in just over an hour via the Tanigawa Express. Gala Yuzawa Snow Resort is conveniently located right outside the station, making it the best place to ski near Tokyo.
Where do locals ski in Japan?
While there are multiple ski areas near the bustling city of Tokyo, Japan is also home to a multitude of ski spots. Niseko and Rusutsu, Hokkaido, are hotspots among locals. Nozawa Onsen and Shiga Kogen, Nagano, are a few more favorites.
What is the best time for skiing near Tokyo?
The skiing season is usually from December to March, with January and February offering the most consistent snowfall.
Do these ski resorts offer equipment rentals?
Yes, many ski resorts near Tokyo provide equipment rental services for skiing and snowboarding.
Are there non-skiing activities at these resorts?
Yes, many resorts offer activities such as snow play areas, observation decks, and hot springs.