Sun Meadows Kiyosato Ski Area

Sun Meadows Kiyosato Ski Area sits at an elevation of 1,900 meters on the slopes of Mount Akadake in Yamanashi Prefecture, making it one of Japan's highest altitude ski resorts. Opened in 1973, the resort was developed as part of the broader Kiyosato highland tourism initiative, transforming the area from rural farmland into a mountain recreation destination. The facility operates under the management of the Kiyosato Tourism Development Corporation and has maintained its reputation as a family-friendly resort with reliable snow conditions due to its high elevation.

The ski area holds significance as part of the Southern Japanese Alps region, offering visitors access to pristine mountain wilderness and panoramic views of Mount Fuji on clear days. The resort sits within the broader Yatsugatake-Chushin Kogen Quasi-National Park, contributing to conservation efforts while providing sustainable mountain recreation. The area showcases the successful integration of tourism development with environmental preservation, serving as a model for mountain resort management in Japan.

The resort features 8 ski runs served by 4 lifts, with terrain suitable for beginners and intermediate skiers. The longest run extends 2,100 meters with a maximum vertical drop of 200 meters. Beyond skiing, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, sledding, and the resort's snow park designed for families with children. The base lodge provides equipment rental, ski lessons, and dining facilities. During summer months, the area transforms into a hiking destination with alpine flower viewing and mountain biking trails accessible via the chairlifts.

The ski season typically runs from mid-December through early April, with peak snow conditions occurring between January and February. Summer operations begin in late April and continue through early November, offering chairlift rides to viewing platforms and hiking trail access. Spring brings alpine wildflower blooms, while autumn features vibrant mountain foliage, making these shoulder seasons particularly attractive for non-skiing activities.

Sun Meadows Kiyosato is accessible by train via the JR Koumi Line to Kiyosato Station, followed by a 10-minute shuttle bus ride to the resort base. By car, the resort is located approximately 2.5 hours from central Tokyo via the Chuo Expressway. Daily lift tickets cost ¥4,200 for adults and ¥2,100 for children during ski season. Summer chairlift tickets are priced at ¥1,300 for adults and ¥700 for children. The resort provides free parking for 1,000 vehicles at the base area. Equipment rental packages start at ¥3,500 per day, and group ski lessons are available for ¥3,000 per session.