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Kagura Ski Resort
Kagura Ski Resort in Niigata spans three connected zones with elevations up to 1,845m, ensuring light powder and one of Japan’s longest seasons from November to May. With mellow groomers, tree runs, and a link to Naeba via the 5.5 km Dragondola, it offers terrain for every style of rider.
Last Updated: November 3, 2025 by Tak
Currently Closed
0cm
Base Depth
0cm
Fresh Snow
8°C
Temperature
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Powder Quality
9.0
Legendary Japanese powder
Terrain Variety
8.0
Diverse slopes & terrain
Family Friendly
5.0
Perfect for all ages
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About the Resort
• Kagura Ski Resort sits in Yuzawa Town, Niigata Prefecture, and is made up of three inter-linked zones—Kagura, Mitsumata, and Tashiro—forming part of the wider Mt Naeba area.
• At altitudes that top out around 1,845 m, the slopes are regularly blanketed in light, dry powder.
• That elevation also delivers one of Japan’s longest lift-served seasons, typically running from late November to mid-May.
• Wide, mellow groomers welcome beginners and intermediates, while ungroomed tree runs and side-country gates keep powder hunters busy.
• Tashiro links to neighbouring Naeba via the 5.5 km “Dragondola,” unlocking an even larger playground under a single ticket.
Why You'll Love Kagura Ski Resort
Record-Long Season & Spring Powder
Can enjoy powder until early spring
High-altitude terrain means reliable powder from January-March and lift-served turns right through May—perfect for squeezing in late-season trips.
Powder & Backcountry Playground
Lift-served tree runs, designated off-piste areas, and straightforward touring access make Kagura a mecca for powder and backcountry fans, yet it stays quieter than many headline resorts.
Easy Access
Convenient transportation from Tokyo
A ~80-minute Joetsu Shinkansen ride to Echigo-Yuzawa followed by a 20-30 minute bus gets you from city streets to the Mitsumata or Tashiro base stations before lunch.
Huge Variety with Dragondola Link
Longest Dragondola in Japan
Three distinct zones plus Japan’s longest Dragondola to Naeba deliver kilometres of pistes, scenic ridgelines, and terrain for every mood—all on one pass.
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)7,200 yen
1-Day Lift Ticket (Child)free under 12 years old
1-Day Lift Ticket (Senior)7,200 yen
Access Information
Location
By Car
Tokyo→Kanetsu Expressway→Joshinetsu Expressway→Joetsu-Myoko IC→Kagura (3hr)
Parking
3,000 spaces
By Train
Tokyo Station→Joetsu-Echigo-Yuzawa Station(2hr)→Bus(25min)→Kagura
Lessons
Lesson in Japanese
Ski Lesson : from 5,200 yen
Snowboard Lesson : from 5,200 yen
Travel Tips
🚌 Getting There
Tokyo Station→Joetsu-Echigo-Yuzawa Station(2hr)→Bus(25min)→Kagura
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
75%Non-groomed
25%Facilities
Snowboard Park
Available
Back Country
Available
Resort Statistics
Gondola
1
unitsLifts
18
unitsCourses
32
coursesLongest Run
6.0km
TERRAIN INFORMATION
Level Guide
Beginner
35%Intermediate
40%Advanced
25%Grooming Status
Groomed
75%Non-groomed
25%Facilities
Snowboard Park
Available
Back Country
Available
Resort Statistics
Gondola
1
unitsLifts
18
unitsCourses
32
coursesLongest Run
6.0km
Photo Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about skiing at Kagura Ski Resort
Why is Kagura popular?
Kagura is loved for a long season and high, snow-sure terrain with access to expansive slopes and backcountry gates in stable conditions.
How to reach Kagura from Tokyo?
Tokyo → Joetsu Shinkansen to Echigo-Yuzawa → shuttle/bus to Mitsumata or Tashiro base.
When is the best time to visit?
January–April for consistent snow; spring skiing can continue into May in good years.
Are English lessons offered?
Yes—English lessons may be arranged through local providers; check availability in shoulder months.
What facilities are available?
Multiple bases with rentals, lockers, and eateries; choose the base that matches your route plan.
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.
