Myoko Suginohara Ski Resort

Myoko Suginohara Ski Resort (commonly referred to by foreign skiers as ‘Sugi’) is regarded as one of Japan’s top ski areas, and for very good reasons. It has some long cruisey runs, plenty of easy sidecountry and off-piste, lots of fun runs through the trees and you can even see Mount Fuji on a clear day! Suginohara resort provides 1,124 metres of vertical, and Japan’s longest ski trail with a total distance of 8.5 kilometres.

Suginohara Ski Area is divided into two zones – the Suginohara Zone and the Mitahara Zone. Both have a wide variety of ski trails to suit all levels of skiers, and lifts that swiftly carry skiers up to 3km in one stretch. The upper reaches of the ski slope have premium snow quality and a magnificent views – on clear days you can see right to Mount Fuji. Some of the slopes are left ungroomed, providing excellent powder conditions on many days of the season.

What’s different about Suginohara?

Good news for families. For kids up to elementary school age, ski lifts and gondolas are free PLUS ski rentals are free on weekdays (except holidays)! For the slightly adventurous there’s snowmobile touring available right at the base of the mountain. Park rats & freestylers will find a good terrain park and half pipe along with a XC course for nordic fans.

Myoko Suginohara Ski Resort, Japan's longest ski trail, Myoko Suginohara, Suginohara Ski Resort — Panorama shot of Myoko Suginohara (courtesy of Myoko Tourism)

Myoko Suginohara: Info Box

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Suginohara Ski Resort is open mid-December through March 31 (depending on snow conditions)

Getting to Myoko Suginohara

Twenty five minutes on the local bus bound for Suginosawa bus or fifteen minutes by taxi (fare 3,000 yen) from Myokokogen Station. Shuttle buses (500 yen one way) run between Akakura Onsen, Akakura Kanko Resort, Ikenotaira Ski Resort and Myoko Suginohara Ski Resort. A shuttle also runs from JoetsuMyoko Station.

Ski Trail Map – Suginohara

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Suginohara accommodation and village

There is a small village (Suginosawa) at the base of the Suginohara Ski Resort that has retained its Japanese flavour and offers a few good accommodation choices. But, be warned, the village is very quiet in the evenings with limited options to eat out. After spending time at the slopes, guests can relax in body and spirit with a soak in the onsen.

Recommended accommodation in/near Suginohara