
Kusatsu International Ski Resort
A charming ski resort perfect for beginners, offering gentle slopes and easy access to the famous Kusatsu Onsen hot springs.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier gear rental

Kusatsu International Ski Resort
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier gear rental

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming ski resort perfect for beginners, offering gentle slopes and easy access to the famous Kusatsu Onsen hot springs.
"This special place holds my first memories on the slopes, and now it's where my kids discover the joy of snow!"

🎯 Gear Up Early!
Rentals can sell out on weekends. Arrive early or consider nearby shops if sizes are limited. ⚙️
🗣️ Embrace the Local Vibe
English signs are minimal, but locals are helpful. Learn a few basic Japanese phrases! :japan:

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.1 · 2,644 reviews
Type
Ski Resort
Website
932-onsen.com/winter/indexHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Beginner-Friendly Slopes
Lower and mid-mountain areas
Gentle, tree-lined trails perfect for first-time skiers and snowboarders. Enjoy the thrill without the fear!

Yumomi Dance
Kusatsu Onsen town
Witness the traditional centuries-old method of cooling hot spring water with a rhythmic dance.

Onsen Relaxation
Kusatsu Onsen town
After a day on the slopes, soak in Japan's renowned hot springs for ultimate relaxation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Beginners
Navigating the Slopes & Town
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Gear Up Early!
Rentals can sell out on weekends. Arrive early or consider nearby shops if sizes are limited. ⚙️
🗣️ Embrace the Local Vibe
English signs are minimal, but locals are helpful. Learn a few basic Japanese phrases! :japan:
🚶♀️ Walk to the Slopes
Easily accessible from Kusatsu Onsen town via Route 292 or Sainokawara Park. 🚶
🚌 Bus Schedule Savvy
If commuting by bus, be punctual! Schedules are limited and taxis are pricey. 🚌
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Gear Up Early!
Rentals can sell out on weekends. Arrive early or consider nearby shops if sizes are limited. ⚙️
🗣️ Embrace the Local Vibe
English signs are minimal, but locals are helpful. Learn a few basic Japanese phrases! :japan:
🚶♀️ Walk to the Slopes
Easily accessible from Kusatsu Onsen town via Route 292 or Sainokawara Park. 🚶
🚌 Bus Schedule Savvy
If commuting by bus, be punctual! Schedules are limited and taxis are pricey. 🚌
♨️ Onsen After Skiing
The perfect way to unwind. Kusatsu Onsen is famous for its therapeutic hot springs. :onsen:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kusatsu International Ski Resort is highly praised for its beginner-friendly slopes and the overall charm of Kusatsu Onsen town. Visitors appreciate the affordability and the opportunity to combine skiing with relaxing hot springs. However, some find the lack of English signage and occasional communication difficulties challenging.
"It suited my level beginner-intermediate snowboarding. Hardly any English signs in the area but enough friendly people trying their best to help. It's easy to get to as well from the town, I walked there via route 292. Some part of the road can be narrow but you can cut across via the Sainokawara park.
The chair to the upper half of the skifield was closed due to strong wind but the sign was only at the entrance of the chair. However to get to this entrance, you'll have to go down slightly from the gondola exit, and when I figured it was closed, it's either walk uphill back to gondola platform or go down (intermediate). It was daunting as I was still a beginner at that stage.
Also the gear rental can be done on site without online booking. Maybe it's communication difficulties, I was just given the gear, no fitting. Pretty much DIY.
The gear rental accept credit card, but the entrance ticket office cash or cards only (I didn't pay attention which one).
Food was decent and affordable. There's a water station in the cafeteria."
Khor Ting Yen
"People staff amenities. It's a sweet spot. Older skiers work well. Snowboards abound. Not always skilled. Slamon snowboard to avoid collision. Consider rhem ground covering. I'm commuting daily by bus from below. The next visit will be overnight. Only 3 hours per day, the bus schedule is limited, and do not be late. Taxi down will be costly. Try to plan ahead. I did not."
David A Lasky
"Throwback to where my skiing journey began! This special place holds my first memories on the slopes, and now it's where my kids discover the joy of snow for the very first time. Family fun and unforgettable moments!"
the wanderlust explorer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can easily walk to the ski resort from Kusatsu Onsen town via Route 292. Some parts of the road can be narrow, but you can also cut across via Sainokawara Park for a scenic route.
If you're commuting daily by bus, be mindful of the limited schedule and do not be late. Taxis are available but can be costly for the journey back.
Kusatsu Onsen Town is often considered an alternative destination on the 'other Golden Route,' alongside places like the Nagano Snow Monkey Park and Hakuba Ski Resort.
Yes, while known for skiing, the resort offers activities like zip lines during the summer months, making it a year-round destination.
From the gondola exit, you might need to go down slightly to reach the chair lift entrance. Be aware that the chair lift can be closed due to strong winds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Online booking for tickets is not always available. The entrance ticket office accepts cash or cards, but it's advisable to check on-site or inquire beforehand.
Skiing and snowboarding on the public slopes are free as long as you have your own gear. Gondola and ski lift rides typically cost around ¥2000 each.
Yes, gear rental is available on-site. However, on busy weekends, sizes can run out quickly, so arriving early is recommended.
The gear rental accepts credit cards. The entrance ticket office also accepts cards, but it's good to confirm which payment methods are accepted.
Yes, residents of Kusatsu Onsen can reportedly use the Gondola and lifts freely as much as they want.
🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience
Absolutely! The resort is highly recommended for beginners due to its gentle, not-too-tough slopes, making it ideal for learning.
If on-site rentals are full or don't have your size, there are nearby shops in Kusatsu Onsen town where you can rent ski wear and gear.
Food at the resort is generally described as decent and affordable. There's a food court available, but expect it to be packed on weekends, requiring a wait for tables.
There are hardly any English signs at the resort, but the staff and locals are very friendly and will try their best to assist you.
Yumomi is a centuries-old method of cooling hot spring water by dancing and stirring it with wooden paddles. You can witness this traditional practice in Kusatsu Onsen town.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the scenic tree-lined slopes and the panoramic views from the upper half of the ski field. The traditional atmosphere of Kusatsu Onsen town also offers many picturesque opportunities.
Yes, you can photograph the Yumori dance as it's a cultural performance. It's a unique visual to capture the essence of Kusatsu Onsen.
During summer, the resort offers zip lines, which can make for dynamic action shots. The surrounding natural beauty also provides a lovely backdrop.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens would be ideal for capturing both the wide ski slopes and any wildlife you might encounter. A waterproof case is advisable for snowy conditions. :camerawithflash:
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful of other visitors' privacy and any specific rules posted by the resort or onsen facilities. :camerawithflash:





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit