Naeba
Naeba
About Naeba
There is something for everyone at Mt Naeba, which combines the Naeba and Kagura Ski Areas to form a comprehensive winter resort located just two hours from Tokyo. Renowned for superb snow conditions and extensive family-friendly facilities, this is a truly convenient destination for outstanding skiing, snowboarding, sledding and other winter activities.
Naeba Ski Resort
Naeba is located north of Tokyo in the Niigara Prefecture which is known for their rice and sake. Boasting some of the largest skiable terrain on the island of Honshu, Naeba is known for having family friendly amenities, easy access from Tokyo and two unique ski areas. Two of Naeba’s ski areas, Mt. Naeba and Kagura are conveniently connected by the Tashiro Gondola named the “Dragondola”. The Dragondola is Japans Longest Gondola. This purpose built ski resort also has convenient ski-in, ski-out access to the lifts and more westernized facilities, which can be seen as an advantage for guests who are first timers to a Japanese ski resort.
Our team has skied the slopes in Naeba, stayed at the Prince Hotel, and taken the Dragondola to Kagura. You’re getting advice from skiers and snowboarders who’ve actually been there. We even have the receipts — check out some of our team's pics from their travels to Naeba!.
Where is Naeba?
Located just 180km north of Tokyo, Naeba Ski Resort is easily accessible via a scenic 75-minute bullet train from Tokyo to Echigo-Yuzawa Station, followed by a short shuttle ride to the resort. With efficient public transport getting there is seamless.
From Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne, direct flights to Tokyo are available with airlines such as Qantas, Japan Airlines, and ANA. Other great options include flying via Singapore, South Korea, offering alternative stopovers to suit your travel plans.
Where to stay in Naeba?
Naeba Prince Hotel is a ski-in, ski-out resort at the base of Naeba Ski Resort, perfect for couples, families, and groups. With over 1,200 rooms across multiple wings, it offers a range of accommodation to suit all needs. The hotel features more than 20 dining options, including sushi, ramen, buffets, and traditional Japanese cuisine. Guests can enjoy après-ski drinks, relax in the public bathhouse, or visit the game arcade. Ski rental, shops, and easy slope access make it a convenient and comfortable base for your Japan ski holiday, all just a short transfer from Echigo-Yuzawa Station.
Best Option for Families?
The Danran Room accommodates up to four guests and includes ski or river views—and even a hammock for added fun. For larger families, limited interconnecting rooms are available, comfortably sleeping up to six people. These are ideal for parents who’d like a bit of space and downtime after a day on the slopes. Travelling on a budget? The hotel also offers standard family rooms, which sleep up to four and provide a cosy, no-fuss option.
Best Option for couples Naeba?
The Danran Room – Hammock or Forest View is a top choice for couples seeking a more elevated experience in Naeba. These spacious rooms come with either river or ski views and a unique design. Alternatively, twin rooms in Wings 3 or 4 also offer lovely outlooks and a great location within the hotel.
Best Value in Naeba?
Our team agrees the Danran River View Room offers the best value at Naeba Prince Hotel. This larger, stylish room combines comfort and character, with the option to upgrade to a ski view. It's a standout choice for couples or small families wanting extra space and a memorable stay.
Where to Ski in Naeba?
Naeba and neighbouring Kagura are connected by the impressive Dragondola, Japan’s longest gondola, giving skiers access to a large and varied ski area. With over 30 lifts and a wide range of groomed runs, powder zones, and tree skiing, Naeba caters to all skill levels—from beginners to seasoned skiers and snowboarders.
The resort receives an average snowfall of up to 8 metres per season, with the best conditions typically found between January and early March. Long, scenic runs, reliable snowmaking, and well-maintained trails make Naeba a favourite for families and international travellers alike.
Our Teams Recommendations for skiing in Naeba:
Sam: As a confident snowboarder, Sam loved taking a 5min Dragondola in the morning to get over to the Kagura area. This area offers some longer and more scenic ski runs.
Luke: Stay at Prince Hotel, with ski in ski out access made life super easy for our family, easy access in and out with young kids is always a plus.
Is Naeba good if you have non-skiers?
Naeba is primarily for skiers but does offer some awesome rest day options. Take a break and Ride the Dragondola, Japan’s longest gondola, for panoramic alpine views—no skis required. Unwind in the resort’s relaxing hot springs, try snow tubing with the family, or enjoy a scenic walk through the snowy landscape. In the evenings, savour a traditional Japanese ramen or teppanyaki dinner at one of the many restaurants within the Prince Hotel.
Our Team's Fave things to do in Neaba:
Sam: Korean BBQ restaurant. Hire a private ping pong table room. Enjoy a hot ramen
Luke: Naeba Kids area was a blast! Fireworks weekly. Onsen
Ash: There is a shirt place where you can make your own shirts!
Seb: ‘Take’ Restaurant a close walk from the Naeba Prince Hotel
Naeba FAQs
How do I get to Naeba from Australia?
Fly into Tokyo (Haneda or Narita) from Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne. From there, take a 75-minute bullet train to Echigo-Yuzawa Station, followed by a short hotel shuttle or taxi to Naeba Ski Resort.
Is Naeba suitable for beginners and families?
Yes. Naeba offers a range of beginner-friendly slopes and ski schools, along with snow play areas and family accommodation options at the Prince Hotel.
What’s the best time to ski in Naeba?
January to early March typically delivers the best snow conditions, with fresh powder and cooler temperatures ideal for skiing.
Can I access more terrain beyond Naeba?
Yes. Naeba is connected to the neighbouring Kagura ski area via the Dragondola—the longest gondola in Japan—offering more varied terrain and stunning alpine views.
What kind of accommodation is available at Naeba?
The Naeba Prince Hotel is the main accommodation option, offering ski-in ski-out access, multiple dining venues, rental shops, and onsen facilities.
Are there lessons in English?
Yes. English-speaking instructors are available, especially during peak periods. It's best to book lessons in advance to secure availability.
Is Naeba good for non-skiers?
Definitely. Non-skiers can enjoy the Dragondola, hot springs (onsen), snow tubing, and a wide variety of dining and cultural experiences within the resort.
TL;DR
Just a short bullet train ride from Tokyo, Naeba is a convenient and family-friendly ski destination offering ski-in ski-out access, reliable snow, and a wide range of runs for all levels. Linked to Kagura via the Dragondola, it offers extended terrain and spectacular views. Stay slopeside at the Naeba Prince Hotel with over 1,200 rooms, 20+ dining options, onsen, rental shops, and more—ideal for couples, families, and groups. Great snow conditions from January to March, with plenty to do for non-skiers too.
