Joetsu Kokusai closed early, on 31 March
Joetsu Kokusai ended its 2025-2026 season early, on 31 March 2026, because of low snow and fast snowmelt. It had planned to stay open until 5 April.
上越国际滑雪场 in Yuzawa offers 22 runs with 19 lifts. 2026–27 season: usually opens mid December. Updated by Tak.
上越国际滑雪场位于新潟县,拥有四大相连区域、22条雪道、近30条缆车和817米的落差,非常适合不同水平的滑雪者。这里交通便利,年均降雪量约10米,并配备可滑进滑出的绿广场酒店,是家庭友好的冬季度假胜地。
Next season typically opens in mid December. Check back closer to opening.
RESORT STATISTICS
Season data shown below. Live conditions available when resort opens.
Courses
All levels
Lifts
Season
usually opens mid December
Reserve your ski experience

N/A
N/A
东京站 → 越后汤泽站(上越新干线,约 1小时20分)→ 免费接驳巴士(约 20分钟)→ 上越国际。 (亦有在地铁道站“上越国际滑雪场前”。)

Tak — Founder & Editor.
I'm a Tokyo-based snowboarder and father of two, with over 20 years on Japan's slopes. Resorts I have personally visited are marked "Visited" and include my first-hand notes. The other resorts are summarized from public ski-area data and local reviews. I add my own notes over time. How we select →


Not Available
Not Available
Not Available
Not Available
Weather dependent
2025–26 season prices, for reference
Ski Lesson : N/A
Snowboard Lesson : N/A
World-famous "Japow"
Experience the incredibly light, dry powder snow that Japan is famous for worldwide, with consistent snowfall throughout the season.
All skill levels welcome
From gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert runs, there's something for every skier and snowboarder.
Convenient transportation
Well-connected by efficient public transport including bullet trains, making it easy to reach from major cities.
Perfect for all ages
Safe and enjoyable environment for families with dedicated beginner areas and professional instruction.
东京站 → 越后汤泽站(上越新干线,约 1小时20分)→ 免费接驳巴士(约 20分钟)→ 上越国际。 (亦有在地铁道站“上越国际滑雪场前”。)
Shuttle runs every 30 minutes during peak season
Full rental sets available on-site. Reserve in advance during peak season.
Ski set: 6,500 yen/day • Snowboard set: 6,000 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
Season has ended. Live snow and weather info will return in December.
Joetsu Kokusai ended its 2025-2026 season early, on 31 March 2026, because of low snow and fast snowmelt. It had planned to stay open until 5 April.
Joetsu Kokusai opened for the 2025-2026 season in December 2025. The huge, family-friendly resort has four zones and a long run of up to 6,000 metres.
Tag your Instagram posts with #japowguides and your photos may be featured here.
See #japowguides on InstagramEverything you need to know about 上越国际滑雪场
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.
Still have questions?
Contact usYuzawa