[For beginners and debutants] Special feature on recommended ski resorts and ski tours!

For beginners! Tips for choosing a ski resort or ski tour

For beginner skiers, choosing the right ski resort and tour is very important so that they can enjoy the slopes safely and happily.

Here are four key points to avoid failure:

Choose a slope with a high ratio of beginner runs

For beginners to ski safely, we recommend ski resorts that have a high percentage of beginner runs on their slopes. Specifically, it would be ideal if about 50% of the runs were for beginners .

Beginner courses have many gentle slopes and it's difficult to go fast, so there's no need to worry about falling. Another point is that you can gradually increase the distance you ski and feel your improvement.

Before choosing a ski resort, check the official website to see the range and types of courses available.

Choose by rental quality

It can be very difficult for beginners to get a complete set of ski equipment, so we recommend that you start out by choosing a ski slope or tour that offers full rental of ski wear, skis, boots, gloves, etc.

Not only can you participate empty-handed, but if you choose a ski resort that has a rental shop with the latest models and a wide range of sizes, you can enjoy skiing in comfort.

In the unlikely event that you have any problems with your equipment, you can rest assured that it will be replaced immediately.

It's a good idea to check how easy it is to ride the lift or gondola.

Beginners can be nervous about getting on and off lifts and gondolas while wearing skis.

To ensure a smooth ride, it's a good idea to check the ease of use of the lift or gondola , such as whether the boarding area is crowded, whether the speed is slow, and whether the disembarking area is spacious.

In particular, if the lifts used to access beginner courses are hooded or operate at low speeds, they are less affected by snow and wind, allowing you to ride safely.

If you are nervous about riding a lift for the first time, it is a good idea to choose a ski resort where staff will provide support.

Be sure to check whether there are any schools or lessons available!

If you're making your skiing debut, we recommend a ski resort with a wide range of schools and lessons .

The quickest way to improve your skiing is to learn the basics from a professional. By learning the correct form and how to fall safely, rather than practicing on your own, you can reduce the risk of injury and improve efficiently.

Some ski tours include lesson fees, so be sure to check when booking your tour.

[For beginners and first timers] 7 recommended ski resorts for beginners and first timers

Below we will introduce a carefully selected list of ski resorts perfect for beginners and those trying skiing for the first time. Compare access and features to find the ski resort that's perfect for you.

Tambara Ski Park | 80% of the courses are for beginners and intermediate skiers

Tambara Ski Park in Gunma Prefecture is a beginner-friendly ski resort, with approximately 80% of its courses aimed at beginners and intermediate skiers .

It's easily accessible, about 30 minutes by car from Numata IC, and is known for its high altitude and excellent snow quality, with the season continuing until Golden Week. Its gentle slopes are some of the most popular in the prefecture, making it perfect for beginners and those making their debut on the slopes.

There is also "Tamba Land," an area dedicated to playing in the snow and sledding, and a "Family Course" with an average slope of 5 degrees, making it the perfect place for families to make their first visit.

Tambara Ski Park [Address] Tambara Plateau, Numata City, Gunma Prefecture

[Telephone number] 0278-23-9311

[Access] Approximately 30 minutes by car from Numata IC

[Business hours] 8:30-16:00 *Varies depending on the season

[Business hours] Please refer to the official website

【Official website】 https://www.tambara.co.jp/winter/

[SNS accounts]

https://www.instagram.com/tambaratokyuresort/

https://x.com/tambaraskipark

https://www.facebook.com/tambaraskipark/

Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort | Recommended schools for those new to the slopes

Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort in Nagano Prefecture is about an hour by Shinkansen from central Tokyo! It's a popular slope thanks to its easy access and ski school specializing in beginners.

Of the 14 courses, 8 are for beginners , so it's safe for those making their debut on the slopes! Another great thing about the resort is that it is fully equipped with artificial snow-making machines, so you can enjoy stable snowfall from early on.

There are also plenty of ski schools for beginners, and one of the reasons for their popularity is that dedicated instructors provide thorough support. Lessons are tailored to each individual's skill level and inclinations.

Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort [Address] Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture

[Telephone number] 0267-42-5588

【access】

・Approx. 40 minutes by car from Usui-Karuizawa IC

・Approximately 1 minute by taxi or 10 minutes on foot from the South Exit of Karuizawa Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen

[Business hours] 8:00-17:00 *Varies depending on the season

[Business hours] Please refer to the official website

【Official Website】 https://www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/karuizawa/winter/

[SNS accounts]

https://www.instagram.com/karusuki_official/

https://www.facebook.com/Karuizawaprincehotelsuki

Hunter Mountain Shiobara | Enjoy empty-handed with our comprehensive rental service

Hunter Mountain Shiobara in Tochigi Prefecture is one of the largest ski resorts in the Tokyo metropolitan area.

They have a wide selection of rental items, including BURTON's "STEP ON" and the latest gear. You can come empty-handed without worry. They also have a full range of snow machines, so the snow conditions are always stable.

The courses are well-balanced, with 40% beginner, 40% intermediate, and 20% advanced courses. In particular, the approximately 3,000m long downhill course allows even beginners to enjoy a comfortable run from the summit. It is also easily accessible from the Tokyo metropolitan area . There are also plenty of day-trip hot springs nearby, making it a great place for those looking to enjoy a soak after skiing.

Hunter Mountain Shiobara [Address] Yumoto Shiobara Maeguro, Nasushiobara City, Tochigi Prefecture

[Telephone number] 0287-32-4580

【access】

・Approximately 50 minutes by car from Nishinasuno-Shiobara IC

・60 minutes by car from Kinugawa Park Station on the Tobu Nikko Line

[Business hours] 8:30-16:00 *Varies depending on the season

[Business hours] Please refer to the official website

【Official website】 https://www.hunter.co.jp/winter/

[SNS accounts]

https://www.instagram.com/hunter_mountain_jpn/

https://x.com/huntama

https://www.facebook.com/hunter.co.jp/

Hakuba Tsugaike Mountain Resort | The super wide slopes are popular for beginners!

Hakuba Tsugaike Mountain Resort in Nagano Prefecture is one of the most popular ski resorts in the Hakuba/Tsugaike Kogen area, and is particularly famous for its Bell-Ringing Hill slope, which is aimed at beginners.

The course is approximately 1,200m wide and has a gentle slope with an average gradient of 8 degrees, offering a great sense of openness and wide views, making it a safe place for beginners to practice. In the middle of the slope, there is a bell, the symbol of the Bell Hill Slope, so it's a great place to take commemorative photos.

This slope is perfect for beginners and families who want to enjoy leisurely skiing while taking in the spectacular views of the majestic Northern Alps.

Hakuba Tsugaike Mountain Resort [Address] Tsugaike Kogen, Otari Village, Kitaazumi District, Nagano Prefecture

[Telephone number] 050-1809-2606

【access】

・Approx. 60 minutes by car from Itoigawa IC

・Approx. 12 minutes by car from JR Minami-Otari Station

[Business hours] 8:00-16:00 *Varies depending on the season

[Business hours] Please refer to the official website

[Official website] https://www.tsugaike.gr.jp/snow

[SNS accounts]

https://www.instagram.com/tsugaike_kogen/

https://x.com/gogotsugaike

https://www.facebook.com/tsugaikeresort

Akakura Onsen Ski Resort | 60% of the courses are beginner-level! 100% natural snow, so you don't have to worry about falling.

Akakura Onsen Ski Resort in Niigata Prefecture is an ideal ski resort for beginners and those making their debut on the slopes, with beginner courses making up approximately 60% of the total course .

Boasting an abundant amount of snow and 100% soft, natural snow , it's hard to get hurt even if you fall, so it's recommended for those who are nervous about skiing and for those with children! There is also a directly managed rental facility, and dedicated staff will provide you with well-maintained equipment, so you can enjoy skiing without worry even if you come empty-handed.

There are also three schools located around the slopes, so even beginners can learn the basics of standing and skiing. The Akakura Onsen hot spring town is located right next to the ski resort, so you can relax and soothe your fatigue after a day of skiing.

Akakura Onsen Ski Resort [Address] Akakura Onsen, Myoko City, Niigata Prefecture

[Telephone number] 0255-87-2125

【access】

・Approx. 8 minutes by car from Myoko Kogen IC

・Approximately 6 minutes by shuttle bus from Myoko Kogen Station on the Kita-Shinano Line (reservations required)

[Business hours] 8:30-16:30 *Varies depending on the season

[Business hours] Please refer to the official website

【Official website】 https://akakura-ski.com/

[SNS accounts]

https://www.instagram.com/akakuraonsenskiarea

https://www.facebook.com/kumadooooo

Kitashiga Komaruyama Ski Resort | The wide slope, over 200m wide, is perfect for practice!

Kitashiga Komaruyama Ski Resort , located in the Kitashiga area of Nagano Prefecture, is a ski resort characterized by its wide slopes, which are over 200 meters wide.

Although it is relatively compact, it is designed to be ideal for beginners to practice, with beginner courses making up an astounding 70% of the total . Although it may be less crowded depending on the season, it is also nice that you can ski at your own pace.

There is also a ski school with 50 resident instructors, so we recommend learning the basics from the pros and aiming to improve your skills. There is also a shrine on the slopes, so be sure to visit!

Kitashiga Komaruyama Ski Resort [Address] 11494 Yomase, Yamanouchi-machi, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano Prefecture

[Telephone number] 0269-33-6621

【access】

・Approximately 15 minutes by car from Yudanaka Station on the Nagano Electric Railway

・Approx. 35 minutes by car from Shinshu Nakano IC

[Business hours] 8:00-17:00 *Varies depending on the season

[Business hours] Please refer to the official website

【Official website】 https://www.komaruyama.jp/komaruyama/

[SNS accounts]

https://www.instagram.com/komaru1966/

https://x.com/komaruyama2001

https://www.facebook.com/komaruyama2001/

Kamui Misaka Ski Resort | A compact design with 5 courses, so beginners can easily navigate without getting lost!

Kamui Misaka Ski Resort in Yamanashi Prefecture is characterized by its compact design with a total of five courses.

Because there are only a few courses, even beginners can easily find their way around without getting lost, allowing them to enjoy the slopes with peace of mind. The overall course layout is gentle, with beginner and intermediate courses accounting for 60% of the course , making it ideal for those making their first ski slope or bringing children.

The snow quality is stable and it's easily accessible from the Kanto region, so it's recommended for those looking to make their skiing debut on a day trip. Rentals and lessons are also available.

Kamui Misaka Ski Resort [Address] 5321-1 Kamikurokoma, Misaka-cho, Fuefuki-shi, Yamanashi Prefecture

[Telephone number] 055-264-2614

【access】

・Approx. 15 minutes by car from Ichinomiya Misaka IC

・Approx. 50 minutes by car from JR Kofu Station

[Business hours] 9:00-16:30 *Varies depending on the season

[Business hours] Please refer to the official website

【Official website】 http://misaka.kamuisp.com/

[SNS accounts]

https://www.instagram.com/kamuimisaka_official/

https://x.com/kamuimisaka_ski

[For beginners and first timers] 3 recommended ski tours that are safe even for first timers!

Once you have selected your ski resort, the next step is to check out the tours.

Here we introduce recommended ski tours for beginners and those making their ski debut. All tours include rentals and lift tickets, so you can easily participate!

[Morning departure/Day trip] Tambara Ski Park Tour | Great value for money! 6 hours of fun

The "Tanbara Ski Park Tour (Morning Departure/Day Trip)" is the perfect tour for beginners looking for value for money and convenience.

Depart Shinjuku in the morning and arrive at the slopes by noon. With approximately six hours of skiing time , you can enjoy a fulfilling skiing experience even on a day trip. Starting at just 5,900 yen, including a round-trip bus and lift ticket, it's easy on the wallet, perfect for students and beginners looking to save money! Rentals are also available as an option, so you can participate empty-handed.

80% of the courses are for beginners and intermediate skiers , so this is a recommended slope for beginners and those making their ski debut.

Tour details: https://yoyaku.orion-tour.co.jp/orion/TourDetailSki?tc=2031890900000&rtc=80

[Morning departure/Day trip] Hunter Mountain Shiobara Tour | Choose from rental plans, perfect for beginners

The "Hunter Mountain Shiobara Tour (Morning Departure/Day Trip)" is also recommended for beginners, as it allows you to enjoy one of the largest and most popular ski slopes in the Kanto region.

This day trip departs Shinjuku in the morning and returns in the evening, but you'll have approximately six hours to explore! In addition to round-trip bus and lift tickets, there are also rental plans available. You can rent everything you need, including ski and snowboard equipment and clothing, so you can participate empty-handed.

There is a good balance of courses for beginners to advanced skiers, and half-day school lessons are also held on-site. It is perfect for beginners and those just starting out, as well as those who want to practice from the basics.

Tour details: https://yoyaku.orion-tour.co.jp/orion/TourDetailSki?tc=2031896900000&rtc=80

[Late-night departure/Day trip] Tsugaike Mountain Resort Tour | Relax and soothe your fatigue with a hot spring bath

For those who want to make the most of their time and enjoy after-skiing, the "Tsugaike Mountain Resort Tour (Evening Departure/Day Trip)" is a good choice.

The bus departs Shinjuku at night and you can sleep on the bus, arriving at the slopes early in the morning. You can enjoy plenty of time skiing from opening time until the evening .

More than 50% of the courses are beginner-level, so beginners and those making their debut can enjoy the experience with peace of mind. The slopes are characterized by their spacious and wide slopes, making it extremely easy to ski. What's more, this tour also includes a "hot spring bath on your way back"! After skiing, you can soothe your fatigue in the hot spring before heading home, making this a truly pampering tour.

Tour details: https://yoyaku.orion-tour.co.jp/orion/TourDetailSki?tc=2021855900000&rtc=80

Tips for beginners to enjoy ski tours

Once you've chosen a ski resort or tour for beginners, all that's left is to enjoy the slopes. Here are three tips to help you enjoy your skiing even more and stay safe.

Take beginner lessons to speed up your progress!

We recommend taking part in beginner lessons that teach you the basics, as you can quickly learn basic skiing posture and how to turn.

Professional instructors will give you accurate advice tailored to your level. By mastering the correct movements before you develop bad habits, you can improve your skills efficiently.

Taking into account your tour schedule, it may be a good idea to take the course in the morning and practice in the afternoon.

It's okay to fall at first! Just make sure you understand the basics of how to fall and get up.

Skiing is a sport where you fall, so it's normal for beginners to fall multiple times!

At first you may feel scared of falling, but if you know how to fall safely, you'll feel less scared and be able to take on more challenges.

The basic rule is to fall sideways from your waist to prevent injuries to your wrists, etc. It is also recommended to master efficient ways to stand up, such as by standing up with your skis perpendicular to the slope, as this will help you reduce the amount of energy you use up.

Enjoy at your own pace, taking breaks without pushing yourself too hard

Beginners tend to tense up and get more tired than they might expect. Remember to take frequent breaks, hydrate, and enjoy skiing at your own pace . If you push yourself too hard and keep skiing, you increase the risk of injury due to fatigue, so be careful.

One of the joys of skiing is enjoying hot meals and drinks at slope cafes and mountaintop restaurants. Take your time and enjoy the refreshing atmosphere at your own pace.

Make your debut on the slopes with ski resorts and ski tours recommended for beginners

In this article, we have provided detailed information for beginners and those skiing for the first time, from tips on how to choose the right ski resort and tour to recommended slopes and tours.

Choose a ski resort with a high ratio of beginner courses and join a tour that offers comprehensive lessons and rentals, and make your debut on the slopes this winter!