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Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort
Karuizawa Ski Resort, just an hour from Tokyo by Shinkansen, offers early-season skiing with reliable snowmaking and a sunny, family-friendly atmosphere. With English support and the Prince Shopping Plaza at its base, it’s one of Japan’s most convenient all-in-one ski destinations.
Last Updated: November 3, 2025 by Tak
Currently Closed
0cm
Base Depth
0cm
Fresh Snow
3°C
Temperature
Book Best Deal
Lift 1-Day ¥6,600
Gate ¥8,000 → Save ¥1,400 (-18%)
Price may vary by date and availability.
Disclosure: This is an affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Powder Quality
5.0
Legendary Japanese powder
Terrain Variety
6.0
Diverse slopes & terrain
Family Friendly
9.0
Perfect for all ages
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About the Resort
Karuizawa is the easiest big-name ski resort from central Tokyo—about an hour by Hokuriku Shinkansen—and sits right by Karuizawa Station. Thanks to extensive snowmaking, it’s among the first in Nagano to open each season, with a bright, sunny, family-friendly vibe and plenty of English support. The vast Prince Shopping Plaza next to the slopes adds dining and retail right at the base.
Why You'll Love Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort
Excellent Access from Tokyo
About 70 minutes by Shinkansen
Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort is just 70 minutes from Tokyo Station via the Hokuriku Shinkansen and a 10-minute walk from Karuizawa Station. Its easy access makes it perfect for day trips.
Beginner- and Family-Friendly Slopes
Gentle gradients and well-equipped ski schools
The resort features mostly gentle slopes, ideal for beginners and children. Ski schools and rental services are well-developed, making it a great choice for first-time skiers and snowboarders.
Shopping and Sightseeing Nearby
Outlet mall and attractions within walking distance
Right next to the slopes is the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, where you can enjoy shopping and dining after skiing. It’s easy to combine skiing with sightseeing in Karuizawa.
Reliable Conditions with Snowmaking
Early opening and long season
With snowmaking facilities, the resort maintains excellent conditions even in low-snow years. It typically opens in early November and stays operational into spring.
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)10,000 yen
1-Day Lift Ticket (Child)free under 12 years old
1-Day Lift Ticket (Senior)10,000 yen
Access Information
Location
By Car
Tokyo→Kanetsu Expressway→Joshinetsu Expressway→Karuizawa IC→Karuizawa Prince Hotel (2hr30min)
Parking
2,000 spaces
By Train
Tokyo Station→Karuizawa Station(1hr5min)→Shuttle bus(10min)→Karuizawa Prince Hotel
Lessons
Lesson in Japanese
Ski Lesson : from 7,000 yen
Snowboard Lesson : from 7,000 yen
Lesson in English
Ski Lesson : from 9,000 yen
Snowboard Lesson : from 9,000 yen
Various school options are availbale please check the official website.
More Info →Lesson in Chinese
Ski Lesson : from 9,000 yen
Snowboard Lesson : from 9,000 yen
Various school options are availbale please check the official website.
More Info →Travel Tips
🚌 Getting There
Tokyo Station→Karuizawa Station(1hr5min)→Shuttle bus(10min)→Karuizawa Prince Hotel
Shuttle runs every 30 minutes during peak season
🎿 Equipment Rental
Full rental sets available on-site. Reserve in advance during peak season.
Ski set: ¥4,500 yen/day • Snowboard set: ¥4,500 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
50%Intermediate
35%Advanced
15%Grooming Status
Groomed
90%Non-groomed
10%Facilities
Snowboard Park
Not Available
Back Country
Not Available
Resort Statistics
Gondola
0
unitsLifts
9
unitsCourses
14
coursesLongest Run
1.5km
TERRAIN INFORMATION
Level Guide
Beginner
50%Intermediate
35%Advanced
15%Grooming Status
Groomed
90%Non-groomed
10%Facilities
Snowboard Park
Not Available
Back Country
Not Available
Resort Statistics
Gondola
0
unitsLifts
9
unitsCourses
14
coursesLongest Run
1.5km
Photo Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about skiing at Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort
What is Karuizawa known for?
Ultra-convenient from Tokyo with extensive snowmaking, gentle slopes, and direct access to shopping and dining.
How to access from Tokyo?
Tokyo → Hokuriku Shinkansen to Karuizawa (~1 hr) → shuttle/walk to the resort area.
Best time to go?
Early season often relies on snowmaking; January–February provide the best natural snow days.
Are English lessons available?
English lessons may be available through partner schools; book early on weekends.
What facilities are on-site?
Resort-hotel rentals, restaurants, lockers, and easy access to the outlet mall.
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.
