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Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort
Joetsu Kokusai in Niigata spans four interlinked zones with 22 runs, nearly 30 lifts, and 817m of vertical—perfect for groups of all abilities. With direct train access, 10m of annual snowfall, and the ski-in/ski-out Hotel Green Plaza, it’s a convenient and family-friendly winter destination.
Last Updated: November 3, 2025 by Tak
Currently Closed
0cm
Base Depth
0cm
Fresh Snow
8°C
Temperature
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Powder Quality
7.0
Legendary Japanese powder
Terrain Variety
8.0
Diverse slopes & terrain
Family Friendly
9.0
Perfect for all ages
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About the Resort
Joetsu Kokusai spreads across Minami-Uonuma in Niigata Prefecture and is divided into four inter-linked zones—Mothers, Panorama, Active, and Forest—covering roughly 10 million m² of terrain.
- Its 22 marked runs are served by nearly 30 lifts (19 chairs plus surface lifts), delivering 817 m of vertical (1,017 m → 200 m) and a top-to-bottom cruise of 6 km.
- Trail mix: 30 % beginner, 50 % intermediate, 20 % advanced—ideal for mixed-ability groups.
- “Snow Country” storms routinely drop about 10 m of powder each winter, supporting a December-to-early-April season (2024/25 plan: 13 Dec–6 Apr).
- Joetsu International Skiing Ground Station sits at the base, letting you step off the JR Jōetsu Line train and onto the snow in minutes—just 12 min from Echigo-Yuzawa Shinkansen hub.
- The striking, ski-in/ski-out Hotel Green Plaza Joetsu anchors the resort, offering rentals, lessons, restaurants, spas and family amenities under one red-roofed Tudor-style complex.
Why You'll Love Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort
One of Japan’s Largest Ski Areas
Four interconnected zones to explore
Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort features four interconnected areas—East, West, South, and North—making it one of Japan’s largest ski fields. With everything from wide beginner slopes to steep advanced runs, the variety is endless.
Family-Friendly Facilities
Kids’ Paradise and sledding areas for children
The resort is well-equipped for families, with the “Kids’ Paradise” park, dedicated sledding areas, and safe beginner slopes. Rental services and ski schools are available, making it ideal for a first snow experience.
Easy Access from the Shinkansen
Free shuttle from Echigo-Yuzawa Station
Just 20 minutes by free shuttle bus from Echigo-Yuzawa Station on the Joetsu Shinkansen, Joetsu Kokusai offers excellent access for day trips or weekend getaways from the Tokyo area.
Slopeside Hotel Green Plaza Joetsu
Ski-in, ski-out with hot springs and dining
The large Hotel Green Plaza Joetsu sits right on the slopes, offering ski-in, ski-out convenience. With hot springs, restaurants, and shops, it’s perfect for an extended ski holiday.
Snow History
Plan Your Visit
Ticket Information
Operating Season
December 20 - March 31
Weather dependent
Operating Hours
Lifts: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Night Skiing: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM (Weekends)
Current Prices
1-Day Lift Ticket (Adult)5,500 yen
1-Day Lift Ticket (Child)3,500 yen
1-Day Lift Ticket (Senior)4,300 yen
Access Information
Location
By Car
Tokyo→Kanetsu Expressway→Joshinetsu Expressway→Joetsu-Myoko IC→Joetsu Kokusai (3hr)
Parking
2,500 spaces
By Train
Tokyo Station→Joetsu-Myoko Station(2hr)→Bus(20min)→Joetsu Kokusai
Lessons
Lesson in Japanese
Ski Lesson : from 4,400 yen
Snowboard Lesson : from 4,400 yen
Travel Tips
🚌 Getting There
Tokyo Station→Joetsu-Myoko Station(2hr)→Bus(20min)→Joetsu Kokusai
Shuttle runs every 30 minutes during peak season
🎿 Equipment Rental
Full rental sets available on-site. Reserve in advance during peak season.
Ski set: ¥4,800 yen/day • Snowboard set: ¥4,800 yen/day
💳 Payment Methods
Credit cards accepted at ticket counters and restaurants.
Cash preferred at some smaller vendors
🌨️ Best Time to Visit
January to February for the best powder conditions.
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends
Terrain
Course Map
Course Map
TERRAIN INFORMATION
Level Guide
Beginner
35%Intermediate
40%Advanced
25%Grooming Status
Groomed
80%Non-groomed
20%Facilities
Snowboard Park
Available
Back Country
Not Available
Resort Statistics
Gondola
0
unitsLifts
19
unitsCourses
22
coursesLongest Run
6.0km
TERRAIN INFORMATION
Level Guide
Beginner
35%Intermediate
40%Advanced
25%Grooming Status
Groomed
80%Non-groomed
20%Facilities
Snowboard Park
Available
Back Country
Not Available
Resort Statistics
Gondola
0
unitsLifts
19
unitsCourses
22
coursesLongest Run
6.0km
Photo Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about skiing at Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort
Why choose Joetsu Kokusai?
A sprawling family-friendly resort with gentle terrain and direct access to a large ski-in/ski-out hotel complex.
How to get there from Tokyo?
Tokyo → Echigo-Yuzawa → local train/bus to Joetsu Kokusai; some accommodations offer shuttles.
Best time to go?
January–March for the best coverage; weekends can be busy with families.
Do they offer English lessons?
Yes—English-friendly lessons can be arranged through the resort or partner schools.
What facilities are available?
Extensive base with rentals, dining, lockers, childcare-friendly options, and lodging on site.
For more general questions (about money, culture, transport, etc.), please see our main Japan Skiing FAQ page.
View Main FAQ
About Tak
I'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.
