It takes about two and a half hours by Shinkansen and railway from JR Tokyo Station to Shinano Railway Myoko Kogen Station, and about 4 hours by car. The landscape and attractions here change depending on the season, and in winter, you can enjoy plenty of unique winter activities and sports alongside excellent snow.

Myoko Kogen is celebrated for its remarkable high-quality snowfall. This is largely due to the seasonal winds coming from Siberia through the Sea of Japan, which create snow clouds that become cooled at 2000m around Mt. Myoko and other mountains.

The ski season in Myoko Kogen is from mid-December to late March. Some ski resorts are opened until mid-May.

Thanks to the natural landscape, snow, and ease of access, Myoko Kogen has become a hot spot for skiers from all over the world. Alongside this winter wonderland, the beauty of Myoko Kogen also lies in its vast collection of gorgeous onsen hot springs, which draw natural thermal waters from the base of Mt. Myoko and are often connected with inns allowing guests to bathe in their nourishing waters. After skiing, be sure to take a soak in the area's luxurious hot springs!

The first resort we'll introduce is Myoko Suginohara Ski Resort, about a 10-minute drive from the Myoko Kogen IC, on the Joshinetsu Expressway. Suginohara Ski Resort has excellent access.

Its main feature is the wide and long slopes with a maximum skiing distance of 8.5 km, perfect for beginners. About 80% of the 17 courses are for beginners/intermediate, making this ski resort an ideal choice for children and adults who want to enjoy skiing safely.

Each course is characterized not only by the size of the slope, but also by the snow's quality. The different courses also each have their unique beauty, like the white birch course surrounded by beautiful birch trees, and the downhill course marked by its famous linden trees.

There are also challenging courses like the super-giant course with a maximum slope of 38 degrees, also called Jigokudani (Hell Valley), so even advanced skiers won't be bored.

・Ski season: December 23, 2023 - March 24, 2024
Open Hours: 8:30 am - 4:00 pm

Ski Lifts
There are 5 lifts in the area and one of the ways to enjoy your time is to take in the view while riding them. In particular, the mountains seen from the summit of the No.3 high-speed lift offer you the view, on a clear day, of Mt. Fuji. It certainly doesn't hurt that the lift gondola is free for children up to elementary school age.

・Lift Tickets: 4-hour, 1-day, 2-day, 1 time gondola ride tickets, and more

School
Suginohara Ski Resort also offers lessons (in Japanese) and has a good reputation for careful guidance tailored to the pupils' skills and preferences. The instructors are certified by the Ski Association of Japan and will support you in your first steps.

Rental
You can rent equipment and clothing, so no need to worry about bringing your own.

Nearby Accommodation
Stay at nearby inns, small hotels, or guest houses when visiting the Myoko Suginohara Ski Resort. Some plans include one-day lifts, gondola tickets, and a ski plan with a one-day ticket and two meals per night. The ryokan also features a hot spring to help you relax after skiing.

Next up is the Ikenoitara Ski Resort, located 5 minutes driving from the Joshinetsu Expressway Myoko Kogen IC, and about 15 minutes by taxi or bus from the Echigo Tokimeki Railway Myoko Kogen Station, making it easy to access by means other than a car.

During the winter season, there is also a free shuttle bus service from Myoko Kogen Station.

The biggest feature of Ikenotaira Onsen Ski Resort, is the Kayaba Slope. This comfortable and safe skiing slope merges with the beauty of Mt. Myoko. The forest course Alpenblick Slope is a high speed one ideal for intermediate and advanced visitors.

・Season: December 16, 2023 - late March, 2024
・Open hours: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm (*depends on snowfall conditions)

Ski Lifts
There are 6 lifts on the vast grounds, and you can easily move to each area stress-free. In particular, the Shirakaba Capsule Pair runs a considerable length of 1,750m, and it's fun to ride over the wide KYB slope. If you're traveling with your family, you can use the lift ticket at a lower price, by using a family-ticket.

・Lift Tickets: 1-day, 2-day, morning, afternoon, one-ride tickets, and more.

School
At the ski resort, you will also find the Myoko Snow Academy, officially recognized by the Ski Association of Japan, which provides an environment where even beginners can easily learn the basics of skiing. Lessons can be in a group or one-on-one.

(*Lessons only in Japanese)

Rental
Visitors can rent the latest models of skis, snowboards, boots, and ski wear. The gear on offer here boasts fantastic functionality and is incredibly stylish!

Nearby Accommodation
We suggest staying at the Hotel Alpenblick, which is affiliated with the Ikenotaira Onsen Ski Resort. The hotel's open-air bath is a popular attraction, as it features a hot spring that flows directly from the source and is known for its high-quality black mud. The bath is also known for its black "hot-spring flowers," which are mineral salts that can help relieve the fatigue caused by traveling and skiing.

In addition, there are also lots of pension-style accommodations alongside inns featuring onsen hot springs. With such a vast assortment, finding a place to stay that suits your budget and style is easy!

Let's now explore the Akakura Onsen Ski Area located in Akakura, Myoko Kogen. It is conveniently situated just an 8-minute drive away from the Myoko Kogen IC on the Joshinetsu Expressway. The ski area boasts an advanced snow-removal system that ensures safe driving on the road. Additionally, there is a complimentary shuttle bus service available from the parking lot to the slopes, making it easier for visitors to access the ski area.

The Akakura Onsen Ski Area boasts dynamic slopes that stretch over Mt. Myoko, with courses ranging from gentle to steep. With 14 lifts and 17 courses, all slopes are covered in 100% natural snow, making it a popular destination for overseas skiers. The wide, long course is perfect for beginners, while the steep slope course is designed for advanced skiers. The excellent quality and quantity of snow make this ski area a must-visit for skiing enthusiasts.

One of the main attractions of Akakura Onsen Ski Area is that it's open for night skiing until 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays, from 16 December to 7 April. The illuminated slope offers a fantastic atmosphere that is utterly different from the daytime, and it's popular among couples and families. During this period, every Saturday and day before a public holiday, the snow is compacted before the night runs, allowing to enjoy the same trail that you would in the morning. You could also choose to ski at night and sightsee during the day.

・Season
Regular schedule: Dec 16, 2023 - Apr 7, 2024
Night skiing: Dec 23, 2023 - Mar 17, 2024
Regular hours: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm (Kumado slope, Quad 1 ~ 5:00 pm)
Night skiing: 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm (Fri & Sat until 10:00 pm)

There are a total of 14 operating lifts, which are divided among three areas. Even though the slopes are very wide, it is easy to get to the section you want. On a sunny day, the slopes look stunning.

In terms of lift tickets, there are several options available such as 1-day passport, 5-hour, 1-day, overnight tickets, and more.

School
There are 3 teaching courses, including an international one, and you can choose according to your level and interests. The school, approved by the Japan Snowboarding Association and the Japan Professional Ski Teachers Association, teaches a variety of courses covering anyone from beginners to race training. Equipment and clothing are available to rent for full days, or for more extended periods.

Rental
Rental ski sets, clothing, and more is available from one day to over four days of continuous use. There are also special deals for those spending several days or more!

Nearby Accommodation
At the base of Akakura Onsen Ski Area, you'll find numerous hot spring inns and restaurants with rich historical backgrounds. After indulging in the rejuvenating hot springs, savor the delicious food and sake to enhance your travel experience. Choose your preferred lodging based on your skiing requirements.

Akakura Kanko Ski Resort, also known as AKAKAN, is a popular ski destination that has been gaining attention from overseas visitors. It is easily accessible, located just 8 minutes away from the Myoko Kogen IC.

The resort features a total of 11 courses, including fully maintained flat regular courses and non-compacted snow courses that cater to both beginners and advanced skiers. With a variety of options available, AKAKAN is a great choice for anyone looking to hit the slopes.

There are a total of 7 lifts available at the skiing resort, and most of them are incredibly fast. If you are interested in visiting the resort, you can purchase half-day tickets, family-deal tickets, and take advantage of the various services offered such as equipment rentals and classes. For more information, please check out the official website of the resort.

・Season: December 16, 2023 - March 31, 2024.
・Hours: Lifts start operating at 8:30 am and close at 4:00 pm.

Experience great skiing in Japan this season at Myoko Kogen. Don't miss out on the opportunity to enjoy winter sports at their finest.
Text by: Tsubasa Shimoda
*This article was written based on information available in October 2021 and updated in September 2023.