Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort
Discover the diverse terrain of Joetsu Kokusai, offering excellent skiing conditions and beautiful mountain views in Niigata prefecture.
Last Updated: September 6, 2025 by Tak
Legendary Japanese powder
Diverse slopes & terrain
Perfect for all ages
Latest News from Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort
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.
Plan Your Visit
Operating Season
December 20 - March 31
Weather dependent
Operating Hours
Current Prices
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
🚌 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
Grooming Status
Facilities
Available
Not Available
Lift Facilities
Gondola
Lifts
TERRAIN INFORMATION
Level Guide
Grooming Status
Facilities
Available
Not Available
Lift Facilities
Gondola
Lifts
Ticket Price
Lift Tickets（1day）
Adult Lift Ticket: 5,500 yen
Junior Lift Ticket: 3,600 yen
Senior Lift Ticket: 6,100 yen
Rentals
Ski Set : 4,800 yen
Snowboard Set : 4,800 yen
Wear : 4,200 yen
Lesson
Ski Set : 4,200 yen
Snowboard Set : 4,200 yen
Wear : 3,800 yen