If you’re staying in Tokyo and want to enjoy skiing or snowboarding without driving on snowy roads, traveling by train is the easiest and safest option.
Japan’s rail network makes it possible to reach several ski resorts directly from Tokyo — in some cases, the ski resort is literally connected to the train station. If you send your luggage ahead, you can travel light and enjoy the ride with friends. Many rail companies also offer ski packages that combine train tickets and lift passes, making the trip even more convenient.
Below are five ski resorts you can reach easily by train from Tokyo, where access is simple and stress-free.
GALA Yuzawa Ski Resort (Niigata)
出典：ayakaさんDirectly connected to GALA Yuzawa Station (Joetsu Shinkansen)
GALA Yuzawa is the most famous station-connected ski resort in Japan. You step off the Joetsu Shinkansen at GALA Yuzawa Station, and the ski center is right there.
From the station, a gondola takes you up to the main ski area, which offers 16 wide and well-maintained courses. Rental shops, lockers, and restaurants are all on site, making it perfect for a day trip from Tokyo.
- Travel time from Tokyo: Approx. 71 minutes by Shinkansen
- Best for: First-time visitors and easy day trips
Official website & access information
Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort (Niigata)
出典：kiyoさんAbout 30 steps from Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort Station
Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort is often described as being “closer than close.” From Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort Station, the entrance is just a few steps away.
The resort is large, with a wide variety of courses for beginners through advanced skiers. Facilities such as changing rooms, rentals, and a day-use hot spring are available near the base area.
- Access: Shinkansen to Echigo-Yuzawa, then local train
- Best for: Groups and skiers looking for varied terrain
Official website & access information
Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort (Nagano)
出典：ブーブーちゃんさん10-minute walk from Karuizawa Station
Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort is one of the easiest ski resorts to reach from Tokyo. The Hokuriku Shinkansen takes you from Tokyo to Karuizawa Station in about 65 minutes, and the ski resort is within walking distance. A free shuttle bus is also available.
The slopes are mainly beginner- and intermediate-friendly, and snow conditions are stable thanks to extensive snow-making facilities. After skiing, visitors can enjoy shopping at the nearby outlet mall.
- Best for: Beginners, families, and shopping with skiing
- Bonus: Very close to Tokyo compared to other resorts
Yuzawa Nakazato Snow Resort (Niigata)
出典：みことさんDirectly connected to Echigo-Nakazato Station
Yuzawa Nakazato Snow Resort is another ski area where the station and resort are connected. Echigo-Nakazato Station sits right at the base, with a ski center offering rentals, lockers, and changing rooms.
The slopes are wide and gentle on one side, making it popular with families and beginners, while more advanced terrain is available on the other side.
- Travel time from Tokyo: Approx. 80 minutes
- Best for: Families and relaxed skiing
Yuzawa Kogen Ski Resort (Niigata)
出典：たくとさん8-minute walk from Echigo-Yuzawa Station
Located near the center of Echigo-Yuzawa, Yuzawa Kogen Ski Resort is accessible on foot from the station. Free shuttle buses are also available during winter.
A large ropeway takes you from the base area to the upper slopes, where panoramic views and a different atmosphere await. The resort has two main areas, offering a good balance of scenery and skiing.
- Best for: Scenic views and easy access from town
- Nearby: Restaurants, cafés, and hot springs
Train-Accessible Ski Resorts
Traveling to a ski resort by train means no traffic jams, no winter driving stress, and the freedom to relax on the way home. Enjoy one last run, then sit back on the train with a cold beer while sharing stories from the day — it’s one of the best parts of a ski trip in Japan.