Naeba Ski Resort

Located in Niigata Prefecture, Naeba Ski Resort offers an unforgettable winter escape. One standout feature is the Dragondola, which is the longest gondola in Japan. It connects Naeba with the nearby Kagura Ski Resort and offers amazing views along the ride. It is a popular spot for families and thrill-seekers alike. Known for its modern facilities, Naeba merges contemporary comforts with breathtaking views of Japan’s snowy landscape.

Naeba Ski Resort

Photo by: PIXTA/ sorakara Powder snow as far as the eye can see

The expansive slopes cover around 134 hectares and include two snow parks and three gondolas. This setup provides an array of exciting snow activities for everyone, from children to adults. With a remarkable vertical drop of 889 meters (2917 feet) and 954 acres of terrain, the resort boasts 24 pistes catering to skiers of all skill levels. Naeba links to Kagura Ski Resort via the 5.5 km Dragondola. It grants convenient access to additional slopes while offering stunning views, making it perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. This entire area, known as Mount Naeba, includes two ski areas.

Families will find a dedicated children’s area where young ones can learn to ski on gentle slopes, slide down on sleds or enjoy rides on banana boats and snowmobiles. Snowboarders can explore excellent terrain parks equipped with various features to test their skills. As the sun sets, the fun continues at Naeba. The resort features beautifully illuminated trails for night skiing, allowing visitors to maximize every moment on the slopes. Additionally, for those who prefer non-skiing activities, Naeba offers a Family Snowland packed with snow tubing, snow trains and snowmobiling, ensuring an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Local Culture

Photo by: iStock/ WhitcombeRD Explore the nearby towns

After a day on the slopes, dive into the local culinary scene. Naeba offers a range of dining options, from resort restaurants to charming local establishments in the nearby town. Just a short bus ride away, Yuzawa Town is famous for its hot springs and local sake, providing a delightful evening getaway to relax after an exhilarating day on the mountain.

While Naeba Ski Resort has plenty to offer, like vast skiing options, excellent accessibility and family-friendly amenities, it can get busy, especially on weekends when Tokyo residents flock to enjoy a getaway. Still, Naeba Ski Resort stands as an exceptional destination for skiers and non-skiers alike. Whether you’re carving through powder on the slopes or enjoying the stunning winter landscape from the Dragondola, Naeba awaits as a winter wonderland ready to be explored.