While it’s rare to see snow in Tokyo, you can opt for ski & snow fun just on a day trip at GALA Yuzawa ski resort, which can be reached only in 74 min from the busy capital city.
No further transport is needed as the resort is situated right next to the Shikansen station. Once getting off the train, you are already on the ski slopes!
All necessary ski equipment, including ski wear and goggle, are available for hire, so that you can just visit empty-handed.
For visitors with small children, Snow Enjoyment Park, situated at the foot of the slopes, provide a dedicated zone for playing with snow or sledding.
Value packages, JR-East rail pass holders discounts
As a member of the JR East group of companies, the resort offers combo packages (e.g. tickets + 1day pass ), which are often more economical than buying a regular ticket.
Or, if you are holding selected regional JR Pass (see below), you’ll enjoy discount for gear hiring or lift tickets.
For more details, visit the official website
Getting There
By Rail
Gala Yuzawa Resort is directly connected to JR Gala-Yuzawa station where Joetsu Shinkansen trains stop by ( No local trains available).
Tokyo / Ueno – Joetsu Shinkansen (74min* ) – Gala-Yuzawa sta.
Available rail pass :
– JR Pass (nationwide)
– JR Tokyo Wide Pass **
– JR East Pass (Tohoku area / Nagano, Niigata area)**
– JR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass**
** Eligible for discount at the ski resort