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Explore Kagura Ski Resort in Japan - an ideal destination with an extended ski season, stunning landscapes, and exceptional services. Don't miss it if you have the chance to visit Japan during the winter!
Kagura Ski Resort in Japan is one of the most prominent ski destinations in the Echigo-Yuzawa area of Niigata Prefecture. With its high elevation and abundant snowfall, Kagura boasts the longest ski season in Japan, stretching from early winter until April or May. Notably, visitors can experience the longest cable car in Japan - Dragondola, directly connecting to the Naeba ski area, offering an exciting continuous skiing journey.
Here’s a detailed guide to Kagura Ski Resort, including highlights, ticket prices, travel tips, and top accommodation choices to ensure a perfect trip.
Main Areas at Kagura Ski Resort - Japan
Kagura is part of the vast Mt. Naeba ski area and is divided into three main zones: Kagura, Mitsumata, and Tashiro. Each area offers a unique experience for ski and snowboard enthusiasts.
- Kagura Area: This is the largest and highest area, famous for its high-quality powder snow and breathtaking scenery. Kagura boasts a 4,000-meter-long slope, perfect for those who love to conquer speed and challenges.
- Mitsumata Area: Suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to families with young children. Mitsumata also has a play area for kids and Wada Lodge, where you can stay right in the heart of the mountain.
- Tashiro Area: Known for its majestic natural scenery, this is the perfect spot for #teamMytour beginners learning to ski. This area is directly connected to the Naeba ski resort through the Dragondola lift, offering even more diverse experiences for your trip.
What Makes Kagura Ski Resort Special?
1. Japan's Longest Ski Season
With an elevation of up to 1,800 meters and abundant snow, Kagura Ski Resort offers Japan's longest ski season. The season usually starts in mid-November and lasts until the end of May, allowing you to enjoy skiing throughout winter and into spring. This makes Kagura an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts who want to experience endless snow-covered slopes without worrying about the season ending too soon.
2. Dragondola – Japan's Longest Cable Car
One must-see feature at Kagura Ski Resort is the Dragondola, the longest cable car in Japan. This cable car is not just a means of transport but also offers a unique experience with panoramic views of the ski resort and the surrounding valley. The 20-minute ride makes it easy to travel from Kagura to Naeba, where more exciting ski slopes await. With Dragondola, you'll enjoy a fantastic connection between these two top-tier ski resorts.
3. Skiing Joy for All Skill Levels
Kagura is a skier's paradise with 32 slopes of varying difficulty, stretching a total of 28.8 km. Experienced skiers will be drawn to the long and challenging steep slopes, while beginners can comfortably practice on wide, gentle hills. Notably, the Mitsumata area features a dedicated play zone for children, where they can safely and happily enjoy the snow.
4. Delight in Dining with a Stunning View
The resort is proud of its extensive range of restaurants offering a variety of dishes, from Western classics like steaks and pasta to traditional Japanese meals such as sukiyaki beef and steaming udon. What makes the dining experience unforgettable is the fantastic setting: most restaurants feature large windows that open up to breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains, creating a dining experience that's as visually pleasing as it is delicious.
How Much is the Entrance Fee at Kagura Ski Resort?
At Kagura Ski Resort, you can choose from various ticket options based on your needs and schedule. Below are some reference prices to help you make your choice:
- 1-Day Ski Pass: ¥6,800 (1,110,000 VND) for adults
- Half-Day Ski Pass: ¥4,500 (725,000 VND). Choose either a morning or afternoon session.
- Naeba-Kagura Pass: ¥8,000 (1,920,000 VND) for adults, granting access to the Dragondola cable car and skiing at both Kagura and Naeba resorts.
The ski resort also offers discounted group passes and early-bird deals. Be sure to check Kagura's official website regularly for updates on special promotions and offers. Additionally, you can book sightseeing tickets or day tours to the Kagura ski resort and enjoy an unforgettable Japanese winter.
Equipment Rental & Ski Lessons You Need to Know
1. Equipment Rental at Kagura Ski Resort
Kagura Ski Resort offers a full range of rental equipment, including skis, ski poles, specialized clothing, helmets, and ski boots. Visitors can rent gear directly from the Mitsumata or Tashiro stations, with flexible pricing based on the type of equipment and rental duration. This service allows you to enjoy skiing without the hassle of carrying bulky equipment.
2. Kagura Ski Lessons
If you're a beginner or looking to improve your skills, Kagura offers professional ski lessons with experienced instructors. You can choose between group lessons or private sessions based on your preference. Additionally, the lessons include instructors who speak English and Chinese, making communication easier. The classes cater to all skill levels, from novices to advanced skiers.
How to Get to Kagura Ski Resort - Japan
1. Traveling to Kagura Ski Resort by Train and Bus
From Tokyo, you can easily reach Kagura via the Joetsu Shinkansen line to the Echigo-Yuzawa station, which takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. From there, buses are available to take you to two main stations at Kagura:
- Mitsumata Station: 20 minutes by bus
- Tashiro Station: 30 minutes by bus
Bus schedule information is regularly updated on the official website, and you can purchase tickets directly at the station.
2. Reaching Kagura Ski Resort by Car
If you prefer to drive, Kagura is about 200 km from Tokyo and takes approximately 3 hours by car. The resort offers spacious parking areas, with 1,200 spaces at Mitsumata station and 800 spaces at Tashiro station. Simply follow Route 17 to easily reach Kagura.
Accommodation Options at Kagura Ski Resort
For those who want to stay close to the slopes and fully enjoy their trip, the Kagura area offers a variety of accommodation options, from cozy mountain lodges to luxurious hotels in the Echigo-Yuzawa area.
1. Wada Lodge - The Perfect Choice on the Mountain Slope
Located in the Mitsumata area, Wada Lodge is a fantastic option for those who want the "ski-in, ski-out" experience. Not only does the lodge provide a warm and inviting atmosphere, but it also allows you to easily hit the slopes first thing in the morning. With its friendly service and close-knit ambiance, Wada Lodge is a favorite stop for many visitors.
2. Kagura White Horse Inn
Nestled in the peaceful forest near Mitsumata station, Kagura White Horse Inn offers comfortable rooms ideal for families and groups. It’s just a 1-2 minute walk to the ski slopes. Additionally, the hotel provides discounted ski lift tickets and equipment rental services, making your trip more convenient.
3. Kagura Mitsumata Cottage
If you’re looking for an authentic mountain retreat, Kagura Mitsumata Cottage is the perfect choice. With traditional Japanese rooms, this guesthouse offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere. A major highlight is the dining area, where you can enjoy stunning mountain views. It’s an ideal place to unwind after a day on the slopes.
4. Kagura House
Located just 300m from Mitsumata station, Kagura House provides budget-friendly accommodation with traditional Japanese rooms for those traveling to Kagura independently. This guesthouse is the perfect stop for those seeking affordable lodging near the slopes, ideal for skiing the following day. Kagura House also offers discounted lift tickets and ski equipment rental services.
Kagura Ski Resort in Japan is truly a paradise for those who love skiing and winter activities. Boasting the longest skiing season in Japan, breathtaking landscapes, and top-notch services and amenities, Kagura is a must-visit destination when exploring the Land of the Rising Sun.
Kagura is not just a ski resort; it's a journey through the various emotional aspects of winter. From endless ski runs that challenge all skill levels, the spectacular Dragondola ride suspended in the sky, to the cozy accommodations after a day in the snow, everything at Kagura paints the perfect winter picture. Make your dream winter holiday a reality by planning today – Kagura awaits with unforgettable experiences!
If you're planning to visit Japan, don't forget to check out Mytour Blog for essential self-guided travel tips, including: Experience Osaka for First-Time Travelers, Guide to Renting a Wifi Router in Japan, 7-Day 6-Night Osaka & Kyoto Itinerary for Independent Travelers, Kyoto 2-Day 1-Night Self-Guided Tour from Tokyo, Shirakawa-Go: Famous Winter Wonderland in Japan, and a 4-Day 3-Night Mount Fuji Itinerary from Tokyo.
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