Niigata is extremely popular with the Japanese for being a ski area close to Tokyo. It only takes 75 minutes by Shinkansen from Tokyo to Gala Yuzawa Station, where the GALA Yuzawa Ski Resort is located. This is an easily accessible ski resort.

GALA Yuzawa is noted for its broad slopes and the many kinds of snow activities offered there. Even if you don’t ski or snowboard, areas provide other activities from which to freely choose to enjoy the snow, such as riding on a sled on snowy slopes.

There are lots of things you can do other than ski. The Kanjiki Tour involves walking on a snowy mountain equipped with snowshoes called kanjiki, which have long been used in snowy areas of Japan. This provides a great opportunity to see snowy landscapes where no one has been. It is offered every day during the season.

Take in the magnificent view from the observation deck above Gala Yuzawa. If you purchase the "Ai no Kane Observatory Set Plan" (3,200 yen, tax included), you can view the entire snowy mountain from a height of 1,030 meters. It offers a breathtaking view of the snowy vista for as far as the eye can see! A perfect way to enjoy Japan’s snow season.

The Naeba Ski Resort boasts slopes covering an area of approximately 134 hectares. Among the 22 courses are two snow parks and three gondolas. Whether you are a beginner or a pro, you are bound to find something to enjoy Japan’s snow season all day long.

One of the highlights of Naeba Ski Resort, which has numerous snow activities, is the snowmobiles at Kappa Snowmobile Land. A snowmobile is like a motorbike that runs over snow. At other ski resorts, usually, only instructors are allowed to drive the snowmobiles, but at Naeba Ski Resort, you are allowed to drive them yourself.

You don’t need a driver’s license, and a guide will explain how to drive them before you set out. At the 10-minute course, high school age and above can operate snowmobiles by themselves, but those younger than that need to ride double with an adult.

On the 60-minute session, a guide will lead the way, taking you on an adventure through deep snow in the forests. This is an entirely different experience than skiing.

For those who would rather not ride on a snowmobile, we recommend snow rafting. A guide driving a snowmobile will pull you along over the snow in a raft. This is good for junior high school age and younger children and an especially fun experience when riding with a parent.

The town of Nasu, located in Tochigi, is a famous hot spring resort area. The largest ski resort in this area is the Mount Jeans Nasu.

It is especially popular among families who enjoy winter sports activities together. Even for children who still have difficulty skiing, there are lots to enjoy at the Kids’ Park.

There are many exciting activities for children, such as a sled area where a guide watches over the children, rafting on snow pulled by a snowmobile, and a snow escalator that will automatically take you up the hill. A limited number of sleds with handlebars are also available at no charge.

There is a rest area for the exclusive use of parents whose children are playing in the Kids' Space. You can take off your boots and relax, and there are also bathrooms. Children tired from playing can also come in and rest up, which is another lovely point.

Lots of events are also held at Mount Jeans Nasu. During the Christmas season, there is a skiing event where people can dress up as Santa Claus. That makes for some fun SNS posts!

In Japan winter activities don't stop with skiing! There are many other fun things to do at the ski resorts. Just have a check and you'll soon discover new ways of enjoying the snow!

▼Early-bird lift tickets are recommended for winter skiing in Japan▼