There are some days in winter when everything seems to align—the weather, the snow conditions, and the company of loved ones. My recent trip with my family to Mt. Yakebitai Ski Resort was exactly that kind of day. With clear skies, crisp mountain air, and perfectly groomed slopes, it became one of the most memorable snowboarding experiences we’ve ever had together.
Discovering the Charm of Mt. Yakebitai Ski Resort in Nagano
Nagano Prefecture, located in the heart of Japan’s Japanese Alps, is one of the most famous winter destinations in the country. Among its many ski areas, Mt. Yakebitai Ski Resort—often simply called Yakebitaiyama—is one of the highlights of the Shiga Kogen ski region. Known for its excellent snow quality, variety of slopes, and breathtaking mountain scenery, it is a destination that attracts both domestic travelers and international visitors seeking the perfect winter adventure.
A Resort in the Heart of Shiga Kogen
Mt. Yakebitai Ski Resort is part of the expansive Shiga Kogen ski area, which is one of the largest interconnected ski regions in Japan. Shiga Kogen gained worldwide attention when it hosted several events during the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, and Mt. Yakebitai was one of the Olympic venues. The resort still carries that Olympic legacy today, offering world-class slopes that cater to skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
The ski area sits at an altitude of about 2,000 meters, which means it enjoys a long winter season and consistently good snow conditions. From December to early May, visitors can usually count on soft, powdery snow—something that has made Nagano one of the most beloved ski regions in Asia.
Slopes for Every Level
One of the reasons Mt. Yakebitai is so popular is the variety of its courses. With around 19 trails in total, the resort offers something for everyone. Beginners can start on wide, gentle slopes where they can practice their turns without feeling pressured by steep terrain. Intermediate skiers and snowboarders can enjoy long cruising runs that wind down the mountainside, providing both excitement and stunning views.
For advanced riders, Mt. Yakebitai has several challenging courses, including steep slopes that were once used for Olympic competitions. These runs are not only thrilling but also give a sense of skiing on professional-level terrain. For those who enjoy freestyle, the resort also has a terrain park with jumps and rails, making it a great spot for snowboarders to practice tricks.
Snow Quality and Weather
Thanks to its high altitude and cold climate, Mt. Yakebitai Ski Resort is blessed with some of the best snow in Japan. The snow is light and dry, often described as “champagne powder,” making it perfect for carving turns and enjoying smooth rides down the mountain. Sunny days are common, especially in midwinter, and when the skies are clear, the panoramic views of the surrounding Alps are unforgettable.
Because of the stable snow conditions, the resort has a relatively long ski season compared to lower-altitude resorts. This makes it a reliable choice for travelers who want to plan a trip without worrying too much about snow quality.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Mt. Yakebitai is also known for being family-friendly. The resort has ski schools with English-speaking instructors, making it accessible for international visitors who want to learn skiing or snowboarding for the first time. Children’s programs are available as well, giving younger visitors the chance to safely experience the slopes.
The wide, well-maintained beginner areas are especially welcoming to families, while the variety of restaurants and cafes around the resort make it easy to take breaks and warm up with a hot meal. Whether it’s Japanese curry rice, ramen, or a simple cup of cocoa, the food at the resort always tastes better after a morning on the slopes.
Our family’s experience｜Arriving at the Resort
Our journey began early in the morning. The sun was already shining brilliantly as we drove toward the resort, its golden light reflecting off the snow-covered trees that lined the road. Even from the car, the view was breathtaking—dazzling white mountains stood tall against a deep blue sky, promising us a perfect day outdoors.
When we arrived at Mt. Yakebitai Ski Resort, the air felt fresh and invigorating. Unlike cloudy or snowy days, when the mountains can feel a bit mysterious and heavy, today everything looked open and welcoming. The slopes stretched out before us, sparkling under the sun. The resort had a cheerful atmosphere, with skiers and snowboarders preparing their gear, families chatting excitedly, and the faint sound of laughter carrying across the snow.
Getting Ready for Snowboarding
We quickly geared up—helmets, goggles, snowboarding boots, and boards in hand. The kids were buzzing with energy, eager to hit the slopes. For them, snowboarding is not only a sport but also a form of play. They love falling, getting up again, and challenging themselves on slightly steeper trails each time.
Before heading up the mountain, we stopped for a moment to stretch and adjust our equipment. The sunlight glistened on the snow, making it almost too bright to look at without goggles. I could feel the excitement in my chest; it had been a while since our whole family had come together for a full day of snowboarding.
The First Ride Up
We took the gondola up the mountain, and the ride itself was magical. As we ascended, the view expanded into a panorama of peaks and valleys, blanketed in pure white. The kids pressed their faces against the glass, pointing out the different trails they wanted to try.
From above, the slopes looked perfectly groomed, with clear lines from the snow machines. The sun created a sparkling effect on the surface, making the snow look like it was sprinkled with diamonds. Everyone in the gondola seemed to share the same anticipation—ready to carve through the fresh snow.
Hitting the Slopes
Our first run down the mountain was exhilarating. The snow was firm but not icy, offering just the right balance for smooth turns. The kids sped off ahead of us, their laughter echoing through the crisp air. I followed, feeling the familiar rush of wind against my face as I picked up speed.
The conditions couldn’t have been better. The sun kept us warm enough that we didn’t feel chilled, yet the snow remained powdery and easy to ride on. Every turn felt effortless, and I couldn’t help but smile as I looked around at my family enjoying themselves.
Family Bonding on the Mountain
One of the best things about snowboarding as a family is the way it brings us closer together. On the slopes, there are no distractions—no phones, no work, no daily worries. It’s just us, the mountain, and the joy of the moment.
Between runs, we would gather at the bottom of the slope, sharing stories of small triumphs and funny falls. My youngest proudly showed me how she managed a longer run without falling once, while my daughter was eager to attempt more challenging trails. Watching their progress made me realize how quickly they were growing, both in skill and confidence.
A Sunny Break at the Lodge
Around midday, we took a break at the resort’s lodge. Sitting outside with hot drinks in hand, we soaked up the sunshine. The view from the lodge terrace was nothing short of spectacular—rolling white slopes against a backdrop of endless mountains.
The kids enjoyed steaming cups of cocoa, their cheeks rosy from the cold, while we adults sipped on coffee and stretched our legs. The warm sun on our faces contrasted perfectly with the cool mountain air. It was one of those rare moments when time seemed to slow down, allowing us to simply enjoy being together.
Afternoon Adventures
After lunch, we headed back to the slopes with renewed energy. The afternoon sun cast long shadows across the mountain, making the scenery even more dramatic. We explored different runs, from gentle family-friendly trails to slightly steeper slopes that challenged us to push our limits.
At one point, we all tried riding together in a line, attempting to keep the same pace. Of course, the kids quickly sped ahead, laughing as they turned to watch us struggle to keep up. It turned into a playful race that ended with us all tumbling into the snow at the bottom, laughing so hard our stomachs hurt.
The Perfect Ending
As the day began to wind down, we took one final run together. The sky was starting to turn golden, the sun dipping lower behind the mountains. Riding down in the warm glow of late afternoon was the perfect ending to a perfect day.
At the bottom of the slope, we gathered our gear and looked back up at the mountain. It stood tall and majestic, bathed in soft light, as if bidding us farewell. My heart felt full—full of gratitude for the weather, the experience, and most importantly, for the time spent with my family.
Reflections
Snowboarding at Mt. Yakebitai Ski Resort on such a clear and beautiful day was more than just a recreational outing. It was a chance to connect with nature, to challenge ourselves, and to strengthen our family bond. The combination of stunning scenery, ideal snow conditions, and the joy of being together made it a truly unforgettable experience.
If you ever have the opportunity to visit Shiga Kogen in Nagano, I highly recommend spending a day at Mt. Yakebitai Ski Resort. Whether you’re an experienced snowboarder or a beginner, the resort offers something for everyone. And if you’re lucky enough to catch a day as perfect as ours—with brilliant sunshine, powdery snow, and your loved ones by your side—you might just find yourself creating a memory that lasts a lifetime.
Accommodation and Access
Several hotels are located right at the base of the resort, offering convenient ski-in ski-out access. Staying overnight allows visitors to maximize their time on the slopes and also enjoy the quiet beauty of the mountains after the lifts close. Many of these hotels also have hot spring baths, providing the perfect way to relax sore muscles after a long day of skiing or snowboarding.
Access to Mt. Yakebitai is relatively straightforward. Visitors can take a bullet train (Shinkansen) from Tokyo to Nagano City in about 90 minutes, then transfer to a bus that goes directly to Shiga Kogen. The total journey takes around three hours, making it possible even for a weekend trip from Tokyo.
More Than Just Skiing
While skiing and snowboarding are the main attractions, Mt. Yakebitai and the surrounding Shiga Kogen area offer much more. Snowshoeing and winter hiking trails allow visitors to explore the quieter side of the mountains. The natural beauty of the region is breathtaking in winter, with frost-covered trees and untouched snow creating a peaceful atmosphere.
Additionally, the area is famous for the nearby Jigokudani Monkey Park, where visitors can see wild Japanese macaques soaking in hot springs. This unique experience is just a short trip away from the ski resort and makes for an unforgettable side activity.
Conclusion
Mt. Yakebitai Ski Resort in Nagano Prefecture is a destination that combines world-class skiing with natural beauty and cultural charm. From its Olympic history to its family-friendly atmosphere and excellent snow conditions, it offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you are a beginner looking to take your first lesson, an intermediate skier hoping to improve your skills, or an advanced rider seeking challenging slopes, Yakebitaiyama has it all.
If you’re planning a winter trip to Japan, Mt. Yakebitai is a place that should not be missed. With its combination of stunning scenery, reliable snow, and welcoming atmosphere, it promises not just a day of skiing, but a complete winter experience that will stay in your memory long after the snow has melted.
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