Gala Yuzawa

Just 75 minutes from Tokyo via bullet train, Gala Yuzawa redefines mountain access with Japan's only dedicated Shinkansen snow resort station. Visitors step from their train directly to the slopes, blending Tokyo's urban energy with the serene snow-covered peaks of Niigata. The resort's thoughtful design includes multilingual instructors, comprehensive gear rental, and soothing onsen baths where you can soak while watching skiers glide down illuminated evening runs. From complete beginners to advanced powder seekers, Gala Yuzawa's varied terrain welcomes every skill level with characteristic Japanese attention to detail.

The heart of Gala Yuzawa beats through its 11-lift network, connecting 16 routes from the station to the summit. The central gondola system elevates skiers from arrival platform to mountain peak in minutes, opening access to 17 distinct courses. The design eliminates the typical resort commute – here, your mountain journey begins the moment you exit the train. As evening approaches, selected runs light up under powerful illumination, transforming the slopes into ribbons of light against the Niigata night sky, extending your ski day well past sunset.