Naeba Ski Resort ['25-26]

Steep powder slopes, fast tracks, Naeba Prince Hotel

Naeba is perhaps Japan's most famous ski resort. The slopes spread across Mount Takenokoyama, boasting 24 runs serviced by three gondolas and 11 lifts, some of which are as long as 4km. The extensive facilities and diverse activities, centered around the Naeba Prince Hotel, satisfy skiers of all ages and interests, but Naeba also offers plenty to offer freeskiers. It

boasts six steep slopes, including the famous "Big Slope" with a maximum gradient of 32 degrees and an official FIS Alpine World Cup course. After snowfall, the ungroomed runs become thrilling faces of steep, powdery terrain.

Naeba, together with the neighboring Kagura Ski Resort, are collectively known as Mt. Naeba. The Kagura-Tashiro area is easily accessible from Naeba via Japan's longest ski run, the Naeba Dragon Gondola. Kagura is even higher than Naeba and boasts heavier snowfall, making it a must-see for powder lovers.

Naeba Prince Hotel's "FIRST TRACK"

Naeba's annual event, "First Track," allows you to enjoy "no-track & groomed runs" that no one has yet skied on. This season's locations are scheduled to be Prince Gondola 1 in January and February, and Prince Gondola 2 in March.

Dates: January 1, 2026 (New Year's Day), January 4 (Sunday), January 11 (Sunday), January 18 (Sunday), January 25 (Sunday), February 1 (Sunday), February 22 (Sunday), March 1 (Sunday), March 15 (Sunday)
Time: 7:15-8:30
Fee: 2,000 yen per person *1,500 yen for season pass holders
Application: Tickets go on sale at the lift ticket office from 7:15 AM on the day of the event

Fireworks will be launched on the slopes of Naeba this winter too!

Naeba's winter tradition of launching fireworks on the slopes will be held again this season. A total of 10 fireworks will be held from December to March during the season. Enjoy the vibrant colors of the fireworks.

Dates: December 25th (Thurs), December 31st (Wed), 2025; January 1st (New Year's Day), January 3rd (Sat), January 10th (Sat), January 31st (Sat), February 7th (Sat), February 11th (Wed, national holiday), March 7th (Sat), March 14th (Sat)
Time: Around 8:45 PM
Location: Near the 4th slope

Maximum gradient: 30 degrees, average gradient: 26 degrees / Distance: 415m / Slope orientation: -

One of Naeba's most famous steep courses. Named after the World Cup course, the slope has a maximum gradient of 30 degrees and an average gradient of 26 degrees, and is a bumpy course that is usually ungroomed. After snowfall, this is a popular course among locals who enjoy long runs of powder snow

Maximum gradient: 32 degrees, average gradient: 25 degrees / Distance: 581m / Slope orientation: -

This is also a W-Cup run. When the ground is leveled, it is a steep, crunchy slope. After snowfall, it becomes a tough powder run. The wide course can be misleading, but the maximum slope is 32 degrees. First thing in the morning after snowfall, it becomes an irresistible stage for advanced skiers

Maximum gradient: 32 degrees, average gradient: 21 degrees / Distance: 435m / Slope orientation: -

This is a course at the top of Naeba. It's a run that takes you above the tree line and lets you experience the vastness of nature. This is also uneven terrain, but after snowfall it becomes a powder field. You can use the Takenokoyama Romance Lift, but since it opens later than the other lifts after snowfall, it's recommended to tackle the lower Riesen course before heading to the top. The maximum slope is 32 degrees