Introducing Kagura's recommended courses, weather forecasts, live cameras, and course maps
INDEX
What is Kagura Ski Resort (Niigata Prefecture) like?
A backcountry paradise within a two-and-a-half hour drive from Tokyo
This ski resort in the Yuzawa area of Niigata Prefecture is known for its powder and backcountry skiing. It is open from late November to late May. In addition to being easily accessible from the Kanto region, it has a reputation for its high snow quality due to its heavy snowfall and high altitude
The ski resort has a vast field consisting of three areas: the upper "Kagura", the lower "Mitsumata", and "Tashiro", which can be accessed from either Kagura or the Tashiro Ropeway, and can be enjoyed by a wide range of skiers from beginners to advanced skiers. Together with the neighboring Naeba Ski Resort, it is called Mt Naeba, and you can travel between the two areas via the Dragon Gondola. Joint lift tickets are also available
The top of Kagura's slopes is 1,845m, and there is a backcountry gate at the top, so if you submit a mountaineering notification and have backcountry equipment, you can ski off-site. It is a popular field for beginners to backcountry skiing, and there are courses for beginners and intermediate skiers on various guided tours
Topics from the '25-26 season
'25-26 season will be held again!Wadagoya Lodge Exclusive Stay & Kagura "Main Slope" Fast Track Plan
Wadagoya Mountain Lodge is located in the mountains of Kagura Ski Resort, quietly nestled at an altitude of 1,380m. Guests staying overnight will be the first to hit the powder slopes the next morning, so there is a fierce competition to stay overnight during the season. This luxurious First Track plan allows you to rent the lodge exclusively for a maximum of six people.
After a private, relaxing night wrapped in the warmth of a mountain hut, the next morning starts at 7:30. You'll be the first to arrive at the Kagura Main Slope from Wadagoya, and have the luxury of having the first hour or so until the general opening time. With this plan, you'll have everything just for yourself, from the powder first track to the star-filled sky, the blazing fire in the fireplace, and the special cuisine prepared by the head chef. For
Maximum gradient: 27 degrees, average gradient: 21 degrees / Distance: 611m / Slope orientation: -
This uneven run is over 600m long. Approach it via the Kagura No. 1 Expressway. Even after a snowfall, if the snow is shallow, the run can be rough enough to cause the snow to sink down, but the morning after a heavy snowfall, the best powder field stretches out horizontally and vertically. Enjoy the fresh snow that will leave your feet sore
・F5: Technical course
Maximum gradient: 29 degrees, average gradient: 20 degrees / Distance: 441m / Slope orientation: -
This steep slope can be seen on the right side from the bottom of Kagura Daiichi Expressway. When there is fresh snow, it is a great place to get powder first thing in the morning, but when there is no snowfall or in spring, it is famous as a tough mogul course. The run is short at 441m, but the skiing is top-notch
・Y3: Challenge Burn
Maximum gradient: 31 degrees, average gradient: 24 degrees / Distance: 492m / Slope orientation: -
This is the steepest powder area in the Tashiro area, accessible via the Tashiro No. 6 Romance Lift. Many skiers come here first thing in the morning to avoid the crowds at Kagura. You can enjoy spectacular powder skiing while looking out over Lake Tashiro
- Course level, percentage of groomed/ungroomed snow and moguls (%)
Recommended information from ski resorts
Recommended Gourmet
Kenchin Udon + Small Rice Bowl Set @ Restaurant Wadagoya Wadagoya is a mountain hut located almost halfway up the slopes of Kagura. It is also possible to stay overnight on Saturdays and the day before holidays, making it extremely popular with guests hoping to get the first track on the powder snow the following morning. The restaurant is open at lunchtime, and many fans say that their "Kenchin Udon" is superb!
Recommended hot springs
Yuzawa Onsen Shinsen no Yu is a 100% free-flowing hot spring that springs from 1,400 meters underground, and is the only hot spring in Yuzawa town where the water is drinkable. There is also a space to relax in the spacious indoor bath. Located 5 minutes from Yuzawa Interchange, along National Route 17 towards Kagura Ski Resort, it is bustling with skiers during the season.
