Japan Ski Guide powered by SURF&SNOW

Language

Others

"What’s at a ski resort?" We’ll answer common questions for those who have never skied or snowboarded before! We’ll cover everything from rentals and ski schools to access methods, as well as the pros and cons of day trips versus overnight stays. This guide provides essential information that beginners will find useful and informative about ski resorts.
Special Thanks to: Tambara Ski Park

What’s a ski slope like?

A ski slope isn’t just a place where you can ski or snowboard; it also includes a variety of facilities, such as a central building known as the "center house." The center house is usually located at the base of the slope and houses ticket counters, rental services, changing rooms, and more, so you can take care of most of your preparation there. It’s essentially the gateway to the slope and often features restaurants and shops, making it the main hub of the ski resort.
When you’re skiing or snowboarding on a slope, you’ll use a lift to get up to the top of the hill. The lift makes it easy to move to the starting point of the course, but you'll need to purchase a lift ticket to use it.
Some ski resorts are equipped with gondolas or ropeways. These allow you to move around without worrying about the weather, whether it’s snowing or particularly cold.
The ticket counter is where you buy lift tickets for using the lifts. There are various types of tickets available, including full-day passes, half-day passes, and multi-ride tickets.
Even if you don’t have your own ski or snowboard gear or clothing, you’re in good shape if there’s a rental facility available. You can enjoy the slopes without needing to bring anything yourself.
Restaurants are often located inside the center house or scattered throughout various spots on the slopes.
Some center houses also include shops where you can buy souvenirs, as well as stores that sell snow items like gloves and goggles. Additionally, most ski resorts have parking lots, but parking fees can vary. Some resorts offer free parking at all times, while others may only offer free parking on weekdays and charge on weekends.

What can you rent?

For rentals, you can typically get a set for either skiing or snowboarding. For skiing, the basic gear includes skis (boards), boots, and poles. For snowboarding, you'll need a snowboard (board) and boots. Rental facilities usually offer these items as a complete set. While you can rent items individually, there are often discounted rental packages that include both gear and clothing. To rent, fill out a form with your height and shoe size, and give it to the staff at the rental desk, who will then select the appropriate gear for you. It’s common to be asked for identification, so make sure to bring something like a driver's license or insurance card.
Clothing rentals come in sizes and designs to fit women, men, and children. Generally, you'll need to provide your own goggles, gloves, and hats, but some rental facilities do offer these accessories as well.

What’s a ski school like? Can beginners join?

If you’re skiing or snowboarding for the first time, it’s a great idea to join a ski school. Even if you’ve never skied before, you’ll be in good hands. Experienced instructors will carefully teach you how to use the equipment and offer tips on skiing or snowboarding. Typically, lessons start with practice on flat terrain without using the lift, and once you’ve made some progress, you’ll move on to using the lift and skiing or snowboarding on the slopes.
The ski school registration is typically located inside the center house or in a dedicated facility. You can choose between half-day or full-day courses, and there are various types of lessons available, including group lessons with other participants, kids' lessons specifically for children, and private lessons where you can learn with just your group.
Ski and Snowboard School Portal Site: "STeach for Snow"

What do you need to use the lift? How can you buy lift tickets at a discount?

To use the lift, you'll need a lift ticket. Tickets can be purchased at ticket counters inside the center house or at designated ticket booths. There are various types of tickets available, including full-day passes that allow unlimited rides during operating hours, half-day passes for either the morning or afternoon, and single-ride tickets. Consider how much you plan to ski or snowboard when choosing which ticket to buy.
Purchase Discount Lift Tickets Here

Use the Changing Rooms and Lockers

Many ski resorts provide changing rooms where you can change into your ski or snowboard gear. These facilities are convenient for changing, as they offer a warmer and more spacious environment compared to changing in the cramped space of a car. Changing rooms are typically located near the parking lot or inside the center house, and they may also have coin-operated lockers for storing your belongings.

Should you go for a day trip or stay overnight?

There are pros and cons to going on a day trip to the ski resort versus staying overnight.

For a day trip, the main advantage is the convenience and cost savings on accommodation. However, the downside is that it can be rushed, and you might end up feeling tired or not having enough time on the slopes.
On the other hand, if you stay overnight, you can relax at the accommodation right after skiing and even enjoy night skiing if you’re up for it. Additionally, you can start skiing again the next morning, which is a big plus. The downside is that it will cost more.

If you plan to go skiing multiple times during the season, a day trip to a nearby resort might be more practical. However, if you’re only going a few times, staying overnight and making the most of your time on the slopes could be a better option.

How do you get to the ski resort?

There are several common ways to access a ski resort, including by car, train, or bus, with driving being the most convenient option. The biggest advantage of using your own car is the flexibility to stop wherever you like along the way and to travel without worrying about time constraints.

Traveling by train offers the benefit of a comfortable ride. Although carrying your gear to the station can be a hassle, you can also send your equipment by courier. Additionally, trains provide the advantage of precise timing compared to driving or taking a bus.

Buses, especially tour buses, can be an affordable way to reach the ski resort. While you might feel a bit cramped compared to a car or train, buses are convenient as they take you directly to a location close to the resort.
Driving your own car to the ski resort offers great flexibility, allowing you to travel at your own pace and make stops along the way. However, it requires having snow tires and being comfortable driving in snowy conditions. If you prefer not to drive your own car, renting one with snow tires can be a convenient option. Even if you’re not a fan of driving in snow, renting a car can still be worthwhile for those who prefer the freedom and flexibility that comes with having their own vehicle.
[Affordable Bus Tours] Check Out Orion Tours Here
[Affordable Car Rentals] Orix Rent-a-Car
If you're not confident about driving, taking the train can be a good alternative. It eliminates the need to drive, avoids concerns about traffic, and is generally more comfortable than a bus. Check if there are shuttle buses available from the nearest train station to the ski resort.

Discounted Rail Tours: "Tobu Top Tours"
During the season, there are direct tour buses operating from urban areas and major train stations to the ski slopes. Various packages are available, including day trips, overnight stays, and early arrivals, often bundled with lift tickets. These packages are priced reasonably, making them a great option for those looking to keep costs down.
Taking a flight to Hokkaido is also a great option. There are package tours available that include airfare, lift tickets, and accommodation. These packages often offer easy booking and reasonable prices, making them a convenient choice.

[Cheap Airfare] Needs Tours

Article List in Terms of Others

Others

【manga】How to ''smalif''

Others

Inner wear

beginner / ski wear / snowboard wear 

Others

How to put on accessories

beginner / ski wear 

Others

Preparing for unexpected incidents

beginner 

Others

Ski with a piste map

beginner 

PAGE TOP