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Discover Japan's best ski resorts with legendary powder snow, world-class facilities, and authentic Japanese culture.
© 2025 Japow Guides. All rights reserved.
Lotte Arai Resort, on the edge of the Myoko area, receives an incredible 15m of snowfall each year and boasts 951m of vertical with terrain for all levels. Just two hours from Tokyo by Shinkansen, it’s a premier destination for deep powder and diverse mountain experiences.
Last Updated: October 11, 2025 by Tak
Legendary Japanese powder
Diverse slopes & terrain
Perfect for all ages
Lotte Arai Resort is located on the northern outskirts of the Myoko ski area.
World-famous "Japow"
Known as a "powder paradise" with an overwhelming annual snowfall of 15 meters. It is listed as one of the resorts for Japan's "best powder"
All skill levels welcome
Offers a variety of courses utilizing its impressive 951 meters of vertical descent, with 35% of the courses being for advanced skiers, accommodating all skill levels
Ski in/out experince with luxury hotels
Since Ski resort is directly connected to Resort Hotel, it is very covenitinet for family with small kids.
Convenient transportation
It only takes 2 hours from Tokyo by Shinkansen (bullet train).
December 20 - March 31
Weather dependent
Tokyo→Kanetsu Expressway→Joshinetsu Expressway→Lotte Arai (3hr)
2,500 spaces
Tokyo Station→Joetsu-Myoko Station(2hr)→Bus(40min)→Lotte Arai
Ski Lesson : from 6,000 yen
Snowboard Lesson : from 6,000 yen
Tokyo Station→Joetsu-Myoko Station(2hr)→Bus(40min)→Lotte Arai
Shuttle runs every 30 minutes during peak season
Full rental sets available on-site. Reserve in advance during peak season.
Ski set: ¥5,500 yen/day • Snowboard set: ¥5,500 yen/day
Credit cards accepted at ticket counters and restaurants.
Cash preferred at some smaller vendors
January to February for the best powder conditions.
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends
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Everything you need to know about skiing at Lotte Arai Resort
Essential items include warm clothing, waterproof gear, gloves, goggles, and sunscreen. Most resorts offer equipment rental, but bringing your own gear is also an option.
Most major ski resorts in Japan have English-speaking staff, especially at information desks, rental shops, and ski schools. However, learning basic Japanese phrases can enhance your experience.
The best time is typically from late December to early March, with January and February offering the best snow conditions. March provides longer daylight hours and milder weather.
Most resorts are accessible by train and bus from major cities like Tokyo. The Japan Rail Pass can be very useful for getting around, and many resorts offer shuttle services from nearby stations.
Options range from luxury hotels to traditional ryokans and budget-friendly hostels. Many resorts offer ski-in/ski-out accommodation, while others are located in nearby towns with shuttle services.
For more general questions (about money, culture, transport, etc.), please see our main Japan Skiing FAQ page.
View Main FAQI'm a Tokyo-based snowboarder with more than 20 years on the slopes. As a father of two, I enjoy riding natural terrain and side hits, and I'm passionate about helping international visitors discover the best of Japan's ski resorts. Off the slopes, I love family time, dogs, and soaking in Japanese onsen.