2026 Latest | 10 Must-Visit Ski Resorts Near Kanto for Day Trips | Master Opening Dates & Difficulty Levels!

When it comes to winter outdoor activities, skiing and snowboarding are definitely the highlights you can’t miss! Japan is said to have over 500 ski resorts, and the choices can be overwhelming. You might have faced these dilemmas: “I want to start skiing, but I don’t know which one is most beginner-friendly…” or “I go every year, but always to the same place and want a change of scenery.” Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, deciding “Where should we go this time?” is always the hardest part. We’ve selected 10 featured ski resorts near Kanto that are easily accessible from Tokyo for day trips, each with its own unique charm. Whether you want a relaxed experience, a family trip, or to challenge advanced slopes, you’ll find your ideal destination here. This winter, let’s head out and start your own snowy journey!

Marunuma Kogen Ski Resort (Gunma)

Located in Gunma Prefecture at an altitude of approximately 2,000 meters, Marunuma Kogen Ski Resort boasts some of the highest quality powder snow in the Kanto region, making it a favorite among skiing enthusiasts. Open from late November through Golden Week, it offers an exceptionally long season for you to enjoy the thrill of the slopes. The park features 13 diverse trails, with the most popular being the long-distance route that takes full advantage of the natural terrain and stunning mountain views. With a maximum length of 4,000 meters, this classic trail appeals to everyone from beginners to speed-seeking pros. Additionally, the resort includes on-site lodges and hot spring facilities. Whether you’re staying for several days or just want a relaxing soak after a day on the snow, everything is conveniently located right at the resort.

*Click here to book now!

Tambara Ski Park (Gunma)

Tambara Ski Park operates from late November until Golden Week and is renowned for its long season and high popularity. Although it’s an easy day trip from Tokyo, the snow quality is surprisingly excellent, famous for its fine, fluffy powder. Most of the trails are gentle and spacious, making it very friendly for beginners and children, and an ideal spot for first-timers or early-season warm-up practice. The children’s snow park is also highly popular, featuring sleds, strider bikes, and more—a perfect place for kids to get to know and play in the snow. If it happens to snow the night before, you might even get a chance to challenge ungroomed natural snow and moguls the next day. For skilled players, these routes offer more fun and challenge. Nearby attractions like Kawaba Onsen and the Shirasawa Roadside Station make it easy to arrange a small trip alongside your skiing adventure.

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Kawaba Ski Resort (Gunma)

Reachable in about 2 hours from Tokyo, Kawaba Ski Resort is highly praised for its excellent powder snow quality. Driving to a ski resort can sometimes be a parking hassle, but Kawaba is very thoughtful, providing a multi-story parking structure that allows you to step directly onto the slopes from the garage—full marks for convenience! The trails are primarily intermediate and advanced, including a dedicated mogul course rarely found in the Kanto region, which is a hit with technical skiers. Of course, beginners needn’t worry; there are well-planned introductory trails through the woods where you can enjoy a leisurely glide with beautiful scenery. Nearby is Kawaba Denen Plaza, which was once ranked No. 1 among all Roadside Stations in Japan, with shuttle buses running between the two. After skiing, it’s super convenient to buy souvenirs, enjoy local food, or take a break, making it an ideal trip that combines skiing with local exploration.

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GALA Yuzawa Snow Resort (Niigata)

Reach it in as little as 71 minutes from Tokyo Station via Shinkansen! GALA Yuzawa Snow Resort is a rare Shinkansen-direct resort, and its accessibility is arguably No. 1 in the Kanto region. For those who don’t want to drive on snowy roads or want a stress-free day trip, this is the perfect choice. The resort is divided into three main areas with 16 trails, ranging from gentle beginner routes to challenging ungroomed slopes. It also features a terrain park and a kids’ park, making it suitable for both first-timers and advanced players looking to hone their skills. Best of all, GALA Yuzawa’s facilities are incredibly comprehensive: gear rentals, hot springs, a swimming pool, rest areas, and vanity rooms are all available. Even if you don’t have your own gear or any skiing experience, you can easily enjoy a full day of winter fun.

*Click here to book now!

Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort (Niigata)

Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort is the largest in the Joetsu area, with an area equivalent to a staggering 214 Tokyo Domes! The park is divided into four zones with a total of 22 trails, most of which are long-distance runs, some reaching up to 6,000 meters. Because there are many gentle long-distance trails, even beginners can slide all the way from the summit, enjoying the healing glide provided by the powder snow. For intermediate and advanced skiers seeking technical challenges, there are slopes well worth conquering, such as the high-difficulty “Jokoku Wall” with a maximum incline of 38 degrees, along with various other challenging runs. The resort’s facilities are excellent, with multiple locker rooms, changing rooms, and rental points distributed throughout, so you don’t have to worry about moving around even in such a vast area. Restaurants are scattered across each zone, offering various “slope food” options to help you recharge, making for a very comfortable overall experience.

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Yuzawa Nakazato Snow Resort (Niigata)

Yuzawa Nakazato Snow Resort is highly convenient, whether you’re traveling by train or car, making it perfect for a day trip with family or friends. The resort offers a diverse range of trails, from beginner-friendly gentle slopes and an “exercise challenge zone” that balances fun with practice, to ungroomed routes that utilize the natural terrain. With an even distribution of difficulty, you can find the perfect way to play regardless of your experience. Additionally, the official website provides helpful advice for skiers of different levels, essential gear checklists, and step-by-step guidance on what to do upon arrival, which is very reassuring for first-timers.

*Click here to book now!

Karuizawa Prince Hotel Snow Resort (Nagano)

Karuizawa Prince Hotel Snow Resort is incredibly accessible, with a short travel time from Tokyo, and it’s surrounded by numerous shopping and sightseeing spots, making it an ideal choice for those who want to combine skiing with general tourism. The resort is located right next to the famous Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza and is close to the charming Old Karuizawa Ginza Street, allowing you to enjoy snow activities, shopping, and strolling all in one go. Regarding the trails, the focus is on wide, gentle beginner routes with many options, so first-timers can confidently try different paths. If you are an intermediate or advanced skier, you can also experience exciting slopes with moguls and a maximum gradient of 30 degrees, or enjoy a long run with views of the magnificent Mt. Asama, catering to everyone from casual gliders to technical specialists.

Hakuba Happo-one Snow Resort (Nagano)

Hakuba Happo-one Snow Resort is situated within the majestic Northern Alps and is famous for its world-class powder snow, making it a must-visit for skiing fans who want to experience “truly great snow.” The scale of this resort is enormous—impossible to finish in just one day! It features an ultra-long trail of up to 8,000 meters with a vertical drop of 1,071 meters, competitive trails that served as venues for the Winter Olympics and other international events, and high-difficulty ungroomed areas perfect for powder lovers. Technical players will find it incredibly appealing. While it has a higher proportion of intermediate and advanced trails, the resort also offers well-equipped beginner routes, ski schools, and a kids’ park, ensuring that even novices and children can safely enjoy the snow.

*Click here to book now!

Hunter Mountain Shiobara (Tochigi)

Hunter Mountain Shiobara is highly accessible and particularly popular with family travelers. It is one of the largest ski resorts in the Tokyo metropolitan area and a representative resort for Tochigi Prefecture. The park features 12 trails, from wide, gentle beginner routes to advanced trails with moguls and twisting turns, as well as a 3,000-meter long run from the summit. With such variety, both novices and pros can enjoy different types of skiing fun. The facility also includes a kids’ snow park with sleds, snow tubes, and various play equipment—a great spot for children to experience snow activities. Beyond skiing, the nearby Shiobara Onsen allows you to completely relax after a day of excitement, perfectly combining sport and leisure.

Kamui Misaka Ski Area (Yamanashi)

Kamui Misaka Ski Area is the closest outdoor ski resort from Hachioji IC. It is an artificial snow resort with a high “sunny day rate,” meaning it is rarely affected by weather and allows you to enjoy consistent snow conditions anytime. Most roads leading to the resort do not accumulate much snow, so even those unfamiliar with driving in snowy conditions can travel there with peace of mind. The resort focuses on beginner and intermediate trails. While the overall scale is not large, the trails are horizontally wide with open views, allowing you to glide leisurely at your own pace. The park also includes a children’s snow park, perfect for kids to try skiing for the first time or play in the snow safely and easily.

*Opening periods and the operation of lifts and trails may change. Please refer to each resort’s official website for detailed information.

Head Out This Winter! Fun in the Snow for Beginners, Families, and Pros

Image source: photoac

Image source: photoac

We’ve introduced “10 Recommended Ski Resorts Near Kanto”! Have you found the one you want to visit? There are so many great ski destinations near Kanto perfect for a day trip—whether you want to challenge powder snow, have fun with family and friends, or prioritize easy access, you’ll find your perfect match. Easily commute for a day trip from Tokyo to enjoy skiing, plan a family outing, or experience hot springs, shopping, and sightseeing all at once. This winter, pick a resort you like, grab your gear, and head out to embrace the white world and create your own winter memories!