[2026 Edition] Enjoy your first ski trip with your kids! 6 ski resorts easily Direction from the Tokyo metropolitan area
Want to go skiing with your kids this winter? We've selected some of the best ski resorts that welcome families for parents like you. Not only are they full of beginner-friendly slopes and kids' schools, but they also have the convenience of renting bulky gear and clothing, and Property for kids to play in when they get tired of skiing, making them child-friendly and safe. Another important point is their easy Direction from the Tokyo metropolitan area, so you can enjoy the whole day even if you leave early in the morning. Whether you'll spend a relaxing night or take a day trip, the excitement is at its peak just thinking about it! Why not enjoy a ski debut full of smiles with your family and create some wonderful winter memories?
<1 night 2 days plan>
- 1Fujimi Panorama Resort/ Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Yatsugatake
- 2Fujimi Kogen Ski Resort / Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Yatsugatake
- 3Shirakaba Resort Ikenotaira Snow Park / Shirakaba Resort Ikenotaira Hotel
<Day trip plan>
<1 night 2 days plan>
1Fujimi Panorama Resort/ Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Yatsugatake
A complete support system to support debuting parents and children
Under the clear blue sky known as "Yatsugatake Blue," this ski resort offers views of the Yatsugatake mountain range and Mt. Tateshina. As soon as you enter, you'll see the "Family Slope" and "Center Slope" for beginners and novices. There are many families and beginners who have just started skiing, creating a warm and relaxed atmosphere. The lifts that connect the two slopes are known as "Yukku Lifts," as they move slowly and are easy to get on and off. Staff/staff member are kind and supportive, so you can feel at ease.
Lesson participation is available for children aged 5 and over. There are a variety of options available, including 3-hour group lessons and family packs.
From playing in the snow to gourmet food, you can have fun and forget about time
If you want to get your kids used to snow, head to the Kids Park, where they can play in the snow and try on plastic skis. You can also have fun interacting with the snow on sleds, trampolines, and tubing. There are a variety of high-quality rental gear, making it a great choice for families who want to travel light.
If you get hungry, one of the highlights of traveling is sampling local delicacies such as the "Sanzoku Burger," a sandwich filled with "sanzokuyaki," a crispy fried garlic-flavored chicken, a Shinshu specialty.
There is a nursing space in the Orion Restaurant, as well as several other diaper-changing locations.
Enjoy the after-ski experience to the fullest! Have a fulfilling stay at "Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Yatsugatake"
Once you've enjoyed your skiing debut, you can take a free shuttle bus to your accommodation Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Yatsugatake. Guests staying at the hotel also get free lift tickets for children and gear and clothing rentals at the hotel, so it's a great deal. For a limited time, a mini slope has been set up within the hotel, allowing you to get up close and personal with the snow. If you get tired of the snow or the weather is bad, there's also a pool and a cafe where you can enjoy reading a book, so you can have a great time. The pool alone is so well-equipped that you could spend a whole day having fun there, and swimsuits and swim rings are also available for rental.
- Fujimi Panorama Resort
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6666-703 Fujimi, Fujimi-cho, Suwa-gun, Nagano Prefecture MAP
Approximately 10 minutes by car from JR Fujimi Station, or approximately 7 minutes from Suwa Minami IC on the Chuo Expressway
Approximately 10 minutes by shuttle bus from JR Fujimi Station
(Sat) December 120, 2025 -(Sun) April 5, 2026
Lifts: 8:30-16:30 (Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays: 8:00-)
Gondola 8:30-16:00 (last downhill trip 16:30)
Open daily
Lift ticket (1 day) Adults (middle school students and above) 6,000 yen, elementary school students 2,000 yen, seniors (50 years and above) 5,700 yen, etc.
0266-62-5666
free
Please check the website for details on opening hours, lift ticket prices, and lesson fees.
There is a free shuttle bus from "Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Yatsugatake" to "Fujimi Panorama Resort" exclusively for guests staying at the hotel.
For details on the accommodation "Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Yatsugatake "
Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Yatsugatake Official Website
Please check the website for details on opening hours and lift ticket prices.
2Fujimi Kogen Ski Resort / Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Yatsugatake
A smiling first-time skiing Experience on the gentle, warm southern slope
It's easily Direction, just 10 minutes from Kobuchizawa Interchange. Located at the southern foot of the Yatsugatake Mountains, it has a high rate of sunny days, making it a great place for even small children to enjoy skiing. Of the two runs, the "Romance Slope" is about 100m wide and has an average gradient of 8 degrees, making it perfect for beginners to practice on. You can practice on the gentle slope until you get used to skiing, then ride the lift. There are a variety of runs for schools, including kindergarten and junior, depending on your level and time. Hoshino Resorts' original ski program, "Yuki Kids," is also held here.
Kids Snow Land is filled with the cheers of children
For kids who are experiencing snow for the first time, we recommend "Kids Snow Land," a snow play area separated from the ski slope. The fluffy inflatable play equipment is sure to bring a smile to your face.
If the weather is good, you can take the single lift in your boots or ski boots to the "Nokyo-no-Oka Observatory," which has a "wooden deck above the clouds." You'll be greeted with a magnificent panorama of Japan's three greatest peaks: Mt. Fuji, Mt. Kitadake, and Mt. Okuhotakadake.
There is a diaper-changing space in the toilets to the left of the entrance to Kids Snow Land, and there is also a nursing room in the "Hot Room" next to it.
Being able to play in the snow inside the hotel is unique to this "holy land for snow beginners."
"Yuki Kids" is a ski lesson program developed by Hoshino Resorts. At the mini slope within "Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Yatsugatake," you can take "Yuki Kids Level 1" before heading to the ski resort, and get used to the snow (30-45 minutes). Guests can rent clothing and gear for free within the hotel, and there is a free shuttle bus to the ski resort. What's more, lift tickets are also free, so you can receive full support for all aspects of skiing during your stay, making this a "holy land for snow debuts."
- Fujimi Kogen Ski Resort
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12067 Sakai, Fujimi-cho, Suwa-gun, Nagano Prefecture MAP
Approximately 10 minutes by car from JR Kobuchisawa Station, or approximately 8 minutes from Kobuchisawa Interchange on the Chuo Expressway.
Daytime: (Sat) December 20, 2025 -(Sun) March 22, 2026, 9:00-16:00 (until 16:30 on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays)
Night games: Every Saturday from January 10th (Sat) to February 21st (Sat), 2026, 6:00 PM to 8:20 PM
Open daily
Lift ticket (1 day): Adults (middle school students and above) 4,500 yen, Children (up to elementary school students) 3,400 yen, Seniors (60 years and above) 3,800 yen
Night ticket: 2,000 yen for adults, 1,500 yen for children, 1,700 yen for seniors
Kids Snow Land: 1,200 yen (free for children under 3 and over 65)
0266-66-2932
free
Please check the website for details on opening hours, lift ticket prices, and lesson fees.
There is a free shuttle bus from "Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Yatsugatake" to "Fujimi Kogen Ski Resort" exclusively for guests staying at the hotel.
For details on the accommodation "Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Yatsugatake"
Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Yatsugatake Official Website
3Shirakaba Resort Ikenotaira Snow Park / Shirakaba Resort Ikenotaira Hotel
A powder snow ski paradise right in front of the hotel!
A ski slope attached to a highland resort hotel on the shores of Lake Shirakaba in Nagano Prefecture. At an altitude of about 1,450m, with an 80% chance of clear skies, the slope offers a resort-like atmosphere with pleasant snow quality. There are three courses in total, focusing on snow play and courses for beginners and novices. Ski lessons are available for children from 4 years old, and thanks to the instruction using special training equipment for beginners, many children improve quickly. If parents are unable to go to the slopes with infants and small children, a "pick-up lesson" is also available. Pick-up is available in front of the hotel's ski rental counter, and private lessons are available for all levels.
Equipped with play equipment and snow athletics that children of all ages can enjoy
On the slopes, there is a snow athletics course that you can try while skiing, which is popular with beginner kids. "Pota Snow Land" where you can play on the playground equipment and go sledding is about a minute away by shuttle bus from the hotel. For parents who want to get serious about skiing, the hotel is also conveniently located with Direction to seven nearby ski resorts in about 5 to 20 minutes.
At the hotel's rental counter, you can rent everything from snowboards (3-piece set including board, boots and poles) to snowboards, as well as clothing and gloves. Baby clothing (80cm) and snow boots are also available.
When you get tired from playing, the whole family can head to the hotel's large hot spring air hot Outdoor hot spring.
Directly connected to the slopes, Shirakaba Resort Ikenotaira Hotel has plenty of Property to enjoy after skiing or in between skiing. There is an indoor heated pool with a water slide (swimsuits and towels are available for rental), bowling, and indoor athletic facilities that even infants and toddlers can play in (up to the lower grades of elementary school), so you can rest assured even on bad weather days.
Refresh your tired body after skiing in Ikenotaira hot spring which has a clear, colorless spring. The famous large Outdoor hot spring is 100 tatami mats in size and has a great sense of openness. It is a mixed bath, so you can enjoy a special bath time with your family.
- Shirakaba Resort Ikenotaira Snow Park
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1596 Ashida Hakone, Tateshina-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture MAP
Approximately 31 minutes by car from JR Chino Station, or approximately 46 minutes from Suwa Minami IC on the Chuo Expressway.
Approximately 40 minutes by free shuttle bus from JR Chino Station (only for hotel guests. Reservations must be made 3 days in advance), or take the bus from JR Chino Station, get off at "Higashi Shirakaba Lake" and walk for 2 minutes
Business period: (Sat) December 20, 2025 -(Tue) March 31, 2026
Business hours: 8:30-16:30 (last boarding)
Open daily
Lift ticket (1 day): 4,000 yen for adults, 3,200 yen for children (ages 3 to elementary school) and seniors (ages 60 and over)
Ski lessons: Regular (90 minutes) 14,500 yen, Half (50 minutes) 8,500 yen
Pota Snow Land 1,000 yen (plastic sled included)
0266-68-2100
free
Ski lesson fees vary depending on the number of people, time, and level. Please check the website for details.
For details on the accommodation, "Shirakaba Resort Ikenotaira Hotel"
Shirakaba Resort Ikenotaira Hotel Official Website
<Day trip plan>
4Saku Ski Garden Parada
Just off the highway, this is a great place for day trips with families.
This is the only ski resort in Japan that is directly connected to the highway, making it extremely Direction. The slopes at the foot of Mt. Hirao, which is 1,155m above sea level, boast a 90% sunny weather rate, making for a pleasant skiing debut. The entire Property is based on the concept of being "family friendly," and various ingenious ideas have been put into it, such as Parking with few steps, easy access to the slopes, and about 80% of the courses being for beginners and intermediate skiers.
The site is divided into "North Parada" and "South Parada," and there is a kids' area at the base of each. Children can have fun at the "Snow Plaza" and the sledding slope.
Everyone was very satisfied with the lessons for the kids and the long cruises for the adults.
Lessons for debuting kids are available for ages 3 and up. The lessons are held on slopes specially designed for beginners, using skis that are easy to move forward on even on flat ground. Moms and dads can watch from the entrance to the slope, or go for a run on the scenic course before the lesson ends.
The highlight of the rental options is the "Empty-Hands Rental Pack" (for ages 3 to 6th grade). This popular set includes a one-day pass to Kids Land, as well as rental snowwear, snow boots, and gloves.
You can enjoy a wonderful winter holiday by snacking on homemade cream puffs at Birds Cafe in Minami Parada, or soothing your tired body after skiing at Miharashi no Yu hot springs inside the ski resort.
- Saku Ski Garden Parada
-
2066-1 Kamihirao, Saku City, Nagano Prefecture MAP
Approximately 12 minutes by car from JR Sakudaira Station
Free shuttle bus operates from JR Sakudaira Station Asama Exit
Business period: (Sat) December 20, 2025 (planned)
Lift operating hours: 8:30-16:30 *Weekdays: 9:00-
Open daily
Lift ticket (1 day): Adults (high school students and above) from 5,600 yen, Seniors (60 years and above) from 4,800 yen, Elementary and junior high school students from 3,200 yen, Children under elementary school age from 2,200 yen
Rental (1 day) Ski or snowboard set + ski wear (top and bottoms) Adults: 8,400 yen, Junior high school students and younger: 6,100 yen
*Please check the website for details.
0267-68-5116
free
Please check the website for details on lift ticket and lesson fees.
Business hours vary depending on the day. Please check the website for details.
5Fujiten Snow Resort
Skiing with a view of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi will be a great winter memory.
This ski resort at the northern foot of Mt. Fuji offers a spectacular panoramic view of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi. It is highly rated not only for its views and easy Direction, but also for the variety of activities that cater to children of all ages. Chibikko Ai Land is equipped with everything from snow play zones such as the exciting "Mini Mt. Fuji" (depending on snowfall) for small children, to a kids' slope perfect for their first ski or snowboard experience. The "Family Lift," which you can ride while holding your skis, has a gentle slope where beginners and families can ski at their own pace.
Supporting travel with children through schools, rentals, and kids' meals
The school has many instructors who are experts in children's lessons, having taught ski classes to many elementary schools every year. The content is tailored to the physical ability of children, and classes are available for ages 4 and up. In addition to a three-piece ski set, they also offer a wide range of ski wear sizes (from 90cm to XXL). Accessories such as gloves and goggles can be purchased at the adjacent shop.
A popular dish among skiers is the "Mt. Fuji Curry" served at the rest house at the foot of the mountain. The curry sauce is a little spicy, so if you don't like spicy curry, it's better to order the "Children's Set" which comes with a mild curry.
- Fujiten Snow Resort
-
8545-1 Fujisan, Narusawa Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture MAP
Approximately 20 minutes by car from Fujikyuko Kawaguchiko Station, or approximately 20 minutes from the Chuo Expressway Kawaguchiko IC
Approximately 25 minutes by shuttle bus from Fujikyuko Kawaguchiko Station (fee required, advance reservation required)
Opening period: (Sat) December 13, 2025 - early April 2026
Nighttime operation: Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays from December (Sat), 2025 to March (Sun), 2026, as well as the New Year holidays (December 28th to January 5th) only. *Excluding December 31st and January 1st.
Opening hours: 8:30-17:00 / Night games: 16:00-21:30
Open daily
Lift ticket (1 day): Adults 5,500 yen, 4 years old to elementary school students 4,000 yen, Seniors (60 years old and over, proof required) 5,000 yen
Ski lessons: 4-6 year olds from 6,000 yen, elementary school students from 5,000 yen, adults from 4,000 yen
Chibikko Ai Land: 1,200 yen (free for children under 2)
Rental: [Skis, boots, poles 3-piece set/1 day] 5,500 yen for adults, 3,000 yen for elementary school students and younger. [Ski wear/1 day] 5,000 yen for adults, 3,000 yen for elementary school students and younger.
0555-85-2000
Free (Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, and New Year's holidays: 1,000 yen)
Please check the website for details on opening hours, lift fees, lesson fees, and rental fees.
6Kamui Misaka Ski Resort
Five courses for beginners and intermediates for a flexible debut and practice
Five courses with great views are compactly laid out at the foot of Mt. Kurodake, the highest peak in the Misaka Mountains. It is mainly aimed at beginners and intermediate skiers, making it ideal for families making their debut. If you want to ski with your children, start with the "Family Course." This is a ski-only course with a gentle 300m run with an average gradient of 9 degrees. There are also many kids on the wide and open "Rainbow Course" and "Center Course." There are various schools for kids and elementary school students, as well as private and parent-child lessons, so it is definitely worth considering for families who want to improve their skills.
A sledding course where parents and children can enjoy thrills and exhilaration together
In front of the Center House, the cheers of children echo through Kids Town. This is an area exclusively for sledding, and you can easily climb up the sleds on the moving belt. Moms and dads can also return to their childhood and slide down and play together.
There is a family discount on lift tickets, so for example, if you have two adults and one child, the price will be 8,400 yen instead of 12,000 yen, depending on the number of people. For a casual "empty-handed ski" experience, there is a wide selection of rental items, including gear, clothing, and even accessories such as helmets. The women's changing room in the rest house is equipped with a nursing room and diaper changing space.
- Kamui Misaka Ski Resort
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5321-1 Kamikurokoma, Misaka-cho, Fuefuki-shi, Yamanashi Prefecture MAP
Approximately 20 minutes by car from Fujikyuko Kawaguchiko Station, or approximately 15 minutes from Ichinomiya-Misaka IC on the Chuo Expressway
Take the bus from JR Kofu Station, get off at "Misaka Ski Resort", and it's a short walk from there
Business period: (Sat) December 13, 2025 -(Sun) March 29, 2026
Business hours: 9:00-16:30
Lift ticket (1 day): Adults 4,500 yen, elementary school students and younger 3,000 yen, seniors (60 years and older) 2,700 yen *Family discounts and other discounted lift tickets are available
Lessons: Adults (elementary school students and above) from 3,500 yen, Private lessons from 14,000 yen, Parent and child lessons from 14,000 yen
Kids Town: 700 yen (for elementary school students and younger, includes sled rental) *Free for junior high school students and older
055-264-2614
free
Please check the website for details on lesson and lift fees.
MAP
- <1 night 2 days plan>
- <Day trip plan>
- Nearby Hoshino Resorts Property


