What other travelers are saying about Kusatsu Onsen Ski Resort
Kusatsu exceeded our expectations - run by a passionate team proud of their roots at Japan’s first, long-established, ski teaching resort.
We came with my 13-year-old daughter hoping to master a new skill together, while enjoying a traditional onsen trip. Getting there was effortless: we took a direct shuttle bus from Tokyo that drops you right at the front of the ski resort - surprisingly easy, with beautiful scenery unfolding along the way.
The mountains were stunning, with endless courses unfolding into one breathtaking view after another. Our instructor, Mr. Nakayama (中山先生), was very calm and remarkably skilled at drawing out potential and building confidence step by step. Between runs, we paused to drink fresh mountain spring water - silky and slightly sweet on the palate - a quiet moment of stillness in the crisp alpine air.
It was so good we returned the following week. By then, I wasn’t just skiing; I was appreciating the company, the landscape, and the sense of freedom the resort offers. Curiosity had quickly turned into passion. Kusatsu has a way of doing that.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The resort's 8 runs are primarily beginner and intermediate terrain with wide, gentle slopes. Ski schools operate at the base area, and equipment rentals are available on-site.
Yes. The ski resort is located minutes from Kusatsu Onsen town center, where public bathhouses and hotel onsen facilities are accessible. Many packages combine lift tickets with onsen admission.
The season runs from December through March. Peak conditions occur in January and February due to the resort's elevation of 1,245 to 2,171 meters, which ensures consistent snowfall.
Kusatsu Onsen town offers ryokan inns and hotels within 10-15 minutes of the resort. Most feature private onsen baths and ski packages. Book in advance during peak winter periods.
The base area includes equipment rental shops, ski schools, restaurants, lockers, and rest areas. Shuttle services connect to Kusatsu Onsen town where additional dining and shopping options are located.
It suited my level beginner-intermediate snowboarding. Hardly any English signs in the area but enough friendly people trying their best to help. It's easy to get to as well from the town, I walked there via route 292. Some part of the road can be narrow but you can cut across via the Sainokawara park.
The chair to the upper half of the skifield was closed due to strong wind but the sign was only at the entrance of the chair. However to get to this entrance, you'll have to go down slightly from the gondola exit, and when I figured it was closed, it's either walk uphill back to gondola platform or go down (intermediate). It was daunting as I was still a beginner at that stage.
Also the gear rental can be done on site without online booking. Maybe it's communication difficulties, I was just given the gear, no fitting. Pretty much DIY.
The gear rental accept credit card, but the entrance ticket office cash or cards only (I didn't pay attention which one).
Food was decent and affordable. There's a water station in the cafeteria.
People staff amenities. It's a sweet spot. Older skiers work well. Snowboards abound. Not always skilled. Slamon snowboard to avoid collision. Consider rhem ground covering. I'm commuting daily by bus from below. The next visit will be overnight. Only 3 hours per day, the bus schedule is limited, and do not be late. Taxi down will be costly. Try to plan ahead. I did not.
It was my first time to try skiing. We arrived there on a Saturday afternoon, around 1pm, and we tried to rent the ski wear and gear, but there were no more available sizes for us. It was full, so we just rented in a nearby shop. After renting, we went back to the Ski Resort. It is a public space and skiing there is free, as long as you have a gear. I also learned that all residents of Kusatsu Onsen can freely avail of the Gondola and lift as much as they want. We joined the Kusatsu Ski School for 5000 yen. It was helpful if you're a beginner. I even lost track of time about how long that lasted, coz it was fun--maybe about 2 hours. The teacher tried his best to speak English. After that, we just enjoyed skiing in the area. We tried the Gondola for ¥2000, and we skied from there. There is a beginner-friendly route up there. My friends also tried the ski lift for also ¥2000. For a beginner like me, I was scared to try it coz jumping off at the top was scary. One of my friends also tripped over when she jumped down. Just be careful when you try it. There is also a food court, but expect that on the weekend, it is really packed. You have to wait for vacant tables before you can sit. There is also a souvenir shop. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience.
Throwback to where my skiing journey began! This special place holds my first memories on the slopes, and now it's where my kids discover the joy of snow for the very first time. Family fun and unforgettable moments!
