What is the best time to visit Rokkosan Snow Park?

The park typically operates from December through March, with January and February offering the most reliable snow conditions. Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends and holidays, making them ideal for a more comfortable experience. The park uses artificial snowmaking equipment to supplement natural snowfall, so the season can extend beyond periods of natural snow depending on temperatures.

Do I need to bring my own ski equipment?

No, the park offers comprehensive rental services for skis, snowboards, boots, and winter wear including jackets and snow pants. This makes it particularly convenient for visitors traveling from urban areas who don't own equipment or prefer not to transport it. Rental fees are separate from admission costs, and equipment is available in various sizes for both adults and children.

Is Rokkosan Snow Park suitable for beginners and families with young children?

Yes, the park is specifically designed to accommodate beginners and families. The slopes are generally gentle and manageable for first-time skiers, and the facility operates a ski school with instructors available for lessons. The dedicated snow play area allows young children and non-skiers to enjoy sledding, snow tubing, and other winter activities without needing skiing skills, making it an inclusive destination for mixed-ability groups.

Can I visit Rokkosan Snow Park if there hasn't been recent snowfall?

Yes, the park utilizes artificial snowmaking systems to maintain skiable conditions even during periods without natural snowfall, provided temperatures are sufficiently cold. This technology allows the facility to operate more consistently throughout the winter season. However, it's advisable to check the park's official website or contact them directly before visiting to confirm current snow conditions and whether all areas are operational.

Rokkosan Snow Park

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Rokkosan Snow Park is a winter sports facility located on Mount Rokko in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. Situated at an elevation of approximately 931 meters, the park operates as one of the closest ski and snow play areas to the Kansai metropolitan region, making it particularly accessible for day visitors from Osaka, Kobe, and Kyoto. The facility opened in 1932 as one of Japan's earliest ski resorts, taking advantage of Mount Rokko's reliably snowy winters and its proximity to major urban centers.

Mount Rokko itself has long held significance as a natural landmark overlooking Osaka Bay, and the mountain range has been developed for recreation since the early 20th century when foreign residents in Kobe established various leisure facilities in the area. The snow park represents part of this broader recreational development, transforming the mountain into a winter destination while maintaining views across the Hanshin region. The park's longevity reflects its role in introducing winter sports to generations of Kansai residents who might otherwise need to travel much farther to mountain regions.

The park offers multiple snow activities beyond traditional skiing and snowboarding. The facility includes beginner-friendly slopes suitable for first-time skiers, as well as a dedicated snow play area where families can enjoy sledding, snow tubing, and building snowmen. Ski and snowboard equipment rentals are available on-site, and the park operates a ski school with instructors for those learning winter sports. The relatively compact size makes it manageable for visitors with limited time, and the elevation provides scenic winter views over Kobe and the surrounding coastline on clear days.

Access to Rokkosan Snow Park requires taking the Rokko Cable Car from Rokko Cable Shita Station, which connects to JR Rokko Station or Hankyu Rokko Station via local bus. From the upper cable car station at Rokko Sanjo, visitors transfer to the Rokko Sky Shuttle Bus, which operates during the winter season and reaches the snow park in approximately 10 minutes. The journey involves about 30-40 minutes of total travel time from central Kobe. Admission to the park costs 2,200 yen for adults and 1,100 yen for children during standard periods, with separate fees for equipment rentals. The facility typically operates from December through March, depending on snow conditions, with artificial snowmaking equipment supplementing natural snowfall to extend the season.

What other travelers are saying about Rokkosan Snow Park

We were lucky. First, the park was opened long hours until 8pm. Second, it was not very crowded. Everything went smooth. Last, we saw some tiny snow flakes flying. The rental is kind of self served but easy to manage. You might need to bring your own gloves, goggles and beanie. The slope is beginner friendly. Do keep the rental ticket till the end of the day. You need to show the rental tickets to the exit. The rental tickets with all the stamps which showed that all stuff already returned.

J Lee

Jan 8, 2026

Mt. Rokkō Snow Park offers enjoyable snow activities with gentle terrain suitable for beginners and families. The separate Snow Land makes sledding and playing in the snow easy and safe. With gear rentals onsite and reasonable access from Osaka/Kobe, it’s a popular winter destination for both kids and adults.

2nd trip so far since last Christmas. Lovely ski park with snow sleigh for younger kids. Single slope for skiing down and skiing chairs to bring you back. A lot of snowboarders and skiing learners. Has an instructor school teaching ppl new to skiing. Remember to bring your own ski gloves (and goggles if you want). Have added the price list if you intend to pay at the entrance (Correct as of Dec 2025). Everything can be rented, from ski clothing to boots, ski, poles. I booked early to avoid a situation of full. Please note most of the time they use artificial snow

An excellent course for beginner. Easily accessible from Kobe within an hour and you don't need to bring anything (except gloves) basically.

I had private ski class here, the instructor can speak simple English. This is a perfect place for beginners to learn skiing on a weekday! No pressure and no crowd.