Located in the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture, Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain is a premier snow resort known for its vast scale and high-quality services. Each year, Nekoma Mountain creates buzz with new, highly anticipated attractions, and the 2025–26 season will be no exception, offering a wide range of highlights for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. In this article, we introduce how to enjoy a winter getaway at Nekoma Mountain, from newly launched tree-run zones and beginner-friendly facilities to an exceptional hotel stay.
A big resort with one of Japan’s largest scales and longest seasons — Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain
Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain is one of Japan’s largest snow resorts, featuring 33 runs, 13 lifts, and a slope-side hot spring hotel. With stunning views of Mt. Bandai and Lake Inawashiro—icons of the Aizu region—the resort offers terrain for everyone from beginners to experts, along with its famous “micro-fine snow,” a light, high-quality powder that captivates skiers and snowboarders. Its long season runs from late November to early May, and it’s just about a three-hour drive from Tokyo, making it a popular destination that perfectly combines snow quality, scenery, and convenience.
So Much to Look Forward to in the 2025–26 Season! Nekoma Mountain’s Seasonal Highlights
Nekoma Mountain delights visitors every year with exciting new attractions, and the 2025–26 season is packed with highlights as well. Here, we introduce the topics you won’t want to miss.
A brand-new tree-run zone equivalent to about four Tokyo Domes makes its debut!
The biggest highlight of the 2025–26 season is the debut of a massive new tree-run zone spanning about four Tokyo Domes (approx. 20 hectares). Three new areas that make the most of the natural beech forest terrain offer exhilarating rides that powder lovers have been waiting for. The North Area’s “POWDER DEEP,” which opens only when snow conditions are perfect, also returns this season, guaranteeing fresh powder after heavy snowfall. Enjoy the light, floating sensation and premium snow quality in the new tree-run zones and at POWDER DEEP.
The North Area Becomes Even More Family-Friendly
In the North Area, a new “magic carpet” will be introduced to support first-time snow experiences. It reduces the effort of climbing slopes, making it easier and more fun to play without getting tired. There will also be a gentle beginner run stretching about 1 km, along with special-value lift tickets valid for selected lifts, creating an ideal environment for snow mountain beginners. It’s packed with family-friendly features as well.
From Lunchtime to Après-Ski — Even More Ways to Enjoy Nekoma Mountain Beyond the Slopes
The burgers served at “The Rider’s,” a restaurant located halfway up the South Area, have been completely revamped. Using Hoshino Resorts’ expertise, they’ve been refined into a must-try item with even better flavor. In addition, a new area will open in the South Area where you can enjoy drinks with live music after skiing, as well as shop at a lively market. After a full day on the slopes, wrap it up with après-ski time spent with friends.
Classic Attractions Still Going Strong — Why Nekoma Mountain’s Slopes Remain So Popular
While Nekoma Mountain is packed with exciting new highlights, many of the classic attractions beloved by guests are still going strong. Here are some of the must-try programs and services you won’t want to miss on your visit.
A Snow Park That Satisfies Everyone from Beginners to Pro-Level Riders
One of Nekoma Mountain’s signature attractions is its snow park, packed with a wide variety of features suited to every skill level. From world-class 20-meter kickers used in international competitions to long, mellow runs you can enjoy at your own pace, the park lets you level up while having fun.
Enjoy a Fulfilling Lunch with a Wide Variety of Slope-Side Eats!
In addition to classic favorites like ramen and curry, the restaurants serve hearty local specialties such as Aizu’s soul food sauce katsudon and the addictive shio katsudon, featuring a savory salt sauce and dashi broth. You’ll also find food trucks and crepe stands for lighter bites, ensuring a highly satisfying dining experience.
Make Your Snowboard Debut Easy with Burton STEP ON
If you’re a snowboarding beginner planning to rent your gear, be sure to try Burton’s STEP ON system. Simply step in while standing and the bindings click into place, so you can start riding right away. There’s also a convenient “full rental set” that includes not only your board and wear but even accessories, making it easy and worry-free for first-timers.
Wake Up to the Slopes — An Extraordinary Overnight Stay in a Camper Van
One popular option is a service that lets you rent a dedicated camper van and stay overnight in the ski resort parking lot. It also comes with great perks such as special lift ticket discounts and access to the hot springs at the resort’s official hotel. Bringing your pet along is another welcome feature (additional fee applies).
There’s plenty to enjoy even after the slopes—experience a hotel stay that immerses you in local culture.
Located at the base of Nekoma Mountain’s South Area, Bandai Mountain Onsen Hotel is packed with services that enhance your ski and snowboard trip, along with a wide range of activities that let you experience the food and culture of the Aizu region.
Relax and Unwind at the Slope-Side Bandai Mountain Onsen Hotel
Bandai Mountain Onsen Hotel, which embraces a “skier-first” philosophy, offers a generous 2:00 p.m. checkout time. This allows guests to enjoy the slopes and relax in the hot springs even on their departure day. The hotel also provides convenient perks such as a complimentary “First Ride,” letting guests board the lifts 15 minutes before regular hours, and a 24-hour “WAX Bar” to keep your gear in top condition. For families, the hotel offers rentals of children’s sleds and wear featuring the Aizu folk toy Akabeko, ensuring a worry-free stay with little ones.
A Variety of Activities to Experience Aizu Culture
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One of the great pleasures of traveling is enjoying local cuisine. At the first-floor restaurant “kisse・kisse” in Bandai Mountain Onsen Hotel, you can savor a variety of delicious dishes, including Aizu’s traditional specialty kozuyu and handmade soba noodles. The hotel also offers many activities that let you experience Aizu culture. Every evening in the lobby, guests can join “Aibase! Odoransho,” a lively Bon dance event with local folk songs—its name means “Let’s dance together!” in the Aizu dialect, and it’s popular with guests of all ages.
For longer stays, we also recommend the reservation-only “Aizu Izakaya GO!” tour, where you take a bus to Aizuwakamatsu City to explore hidden local taverns. In addition, there are plenty of accommodation options around Nekoma Mountain, so finding a place that matches your travel style is part of the fun. Free shuttle buses run from major hotels around the North Area, making it easy to get to the resort.
Ski, Play, and Relax to the Fullest — Enjoy a Special Winter Getaway at Nekoma Mountain
For the 2025–26 season, Nekoma Mountain has evolved in many ways, including the long-awaited opening of new tree-run zones and an expanded après-ski experience. Whether you’re chasing premium powder, touching snow for the first time, or returning to the slopes after a break, Nekoma Mountain offers something for everyone—so why not create special winter memories here this season?
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