Tazawako Ski Resort
A local-favorite ski resort in Akita offering uncrowded slopes, stunning Lake Tazawa views, and convenient rentals for all skill levels.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Tazawako Ski Resort
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A local-favorite ski resort in Akita offering uncrowded slopes, stunning Lake Tazawa views, and convenient rentals for all skill levels.
"Lovely resort, great for a weekend. Many different levels of slopes and quite a number of jumps scattered about."
🚗 Car is More Convenient
While accessible by train/bus, a car offers more convenience for reaching the resort and nearby attractions .
💰 Check for Coupons
Look for discounts on lift tickets and rentals on the resort's website for great savings .
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.3 · 437 reviews
Type
Ski Resort
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Lake Tazawa Views
Top of the slopes
Breathtaking vistas of Lake Tazawa from the summit, especially on clear days. An unforgettable sight while snowboarding .
Beginner-Friendly Long Slopes
Lower slopes
Ideal for learning and practicing, these long, uncrowded slopes allow beginners to build confidence without feeling rushed .
Off-Piste Powder Adventures
Designated off-piste areas
Experience thrilling waist-deep powder runs in off-piste areas, often with no crowds for a private mountain feel .
Convenient Rental Services
Base area rental shop
Friendly staff and convenient overnight storage for rented gear make your ski or snowboard trip hassle-free .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Weather
Check forecasts and consider visiting on weekdays for the quietest slopes.Combine with Onsen & Lake Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car is More Convenient
While accessible by train/bus, a car offers more convenience for reaching the resort and nearby attractions.
💰 Check for Coupons
Look for discounts on lift tickets and rentals on the resort's website for great savings.
🧥 Rent Gear On-Site
Full gear, including clothes, can be rented, and they offer convenient overnight storage.
🌬️ Weather Watch is Key
High winds can close the resort, so always check the weather forecast before heading out.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car is More Convenient
While accessible by train/bus, a car offers more convenience for reaching the resort and nearby attractions.
💰 Check for Coupons
Look for discounts on lift tickets and rentals on the resort's website for great savings.
🧥 Rent Gear On-Site
Full gear, including clothes, can be rented, and they offer convenient overnight storage.
🌬️ Weather Watch is Key
High winds can close the resort, so always check the weather forecast before heading out.
🏂 Snowboarders Welcome
The resort is great for snowboarding, with areas for carving and practicing powder techniques.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tazawako Ski Resort is lauded as a friendly, local gem with fewer tourists, offering a relaxed skiing and snowboarding experience. Visitors praise the long, beginner-friendly slopes, breathtaking lake views on clear days, and convenient rental services. While some note grooming inconsistencies on certain off-piste areas, the overall sentiment is positive, highlighting its charm and accessibility.
"Tazawako Ski Resort is a lovely, local-friendly resort with very few tourists, making it a great spot for a relaxed skiing or snowboarding experience.
The slopes are long and perfect for beginners to practice without feeling rushed.
The rental shop staff were super friendly and helpful. We rented our gear for two days and were able to leave it at the shop overnight, so we didn’t have to carry everything back to the hotel—super convenient!
And if you're lucky with the weather, the view is breathtaking. Snowboarding down while overlooking Lake Tazawa is an unforgettable experience!"
Jer S
"Nice ski resort in the mountains near lake tazwako, you can get to there by train/bus but car is a bit easier and more convenient. It’s also located on the road to the Nyuto onsen, so can be easily combined with a stay there. The ski resort is self is good. They have 13 slopes, with all difficulties available. If your lucky and have good weather you can catch a great view from the top of the lake. There is a food court near the lifts, where you can grab some lunch. I recommend checking for coupons on their website, we were able to get a great discount on the lift ticket and rental equipment. The rental equipment includes skis and snowboards and even clothes can be rented."
Richard
"Lovely resort, great for a weekend. Many different levels of slopes and quite a number of jumps scattered about.
Just a shame that they do not tidy up the slope (groom) on the far right after it has maxed out the powder with no fresh snow to rejuvenate it. Being chopped up and left harden, no-one used it as not pleasant. A similar position for the other so-called powder slope left of the top lift.
Restaurant was good as was the relaxation lounge which also serves lunch.
The quads and pair lift far left were very quick.
The slope on the far bottom left felt like it was vertical on the off-piste powder. Waist deep - splendid!"
Carl Brown
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Tazawako Ski Resort by train and bus, but driving is generally more convenient. If arriving by train, take the Akita Shinkansen to Tazawako Station, then a local bus or taxi to the resort.
Akita prefecture is somewhat rural and mountainous. While public transport exists, having a car is recommended for easier exploration of areas like Tazawako Ski Resort and Nyuto Onsen.
These locations are relatively close. If you have a car, it's a short drive. Otherwise, check local bus schedules, though direct routes might be limited, and a taxi might be necessary.
Typically, local buses connect Tazawako Station to the ski resort. It's advisable to check the latest bus schedules closer to your travel date.
While primarily a winter destination, the area around Tazawako Ski Resort offers scenic beauty in summer, with hiking and views of Lake Tazawa.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lift ticket prices can vary. It's recommended to check the official Tazawako Ski Resort website for current pricing and consider looking for coupons for discounts.
Yes, Tazawako Ski Resort has a rental shop offering skis, snowboards, and even clothing. They also provide convenient overnight storage for rented equipment.
Yes, travelers have reported finding great discounts by checking the resort's website for coupons. It's worth looking for these deals before your visit.
Operating hours typically vary by season and day. It's best to consult the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times.
Generally, there isn't a separate admission fee to enter the resort grounds. You pay for lift tickets to access the slopes and for rentals if needed.
🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience
Tazawako Ski Resort offers 13 slopes catering to all levels, from beginner-friendly long runs to challenging off-piste areas. Some slopes have gradients of 25-32 degrees.
Absolutely! The resort is praised for its long, uncrowded slopes perfect for beginners to practice and gain confidence.
Yes, Tazawako is known for its exciting off-piste powder runs, offering a thrilling experience for advanced riders.
On clear days, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Tazawa from the top of the resort.
The resort has a number of jumps scattered about, making it enjoyable for those looking for some freestyle elements.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There's a food court located near the lifts where you can grab lunch. The resort also has a relaxation lounge that serves food.
Expect typical ski resort fare at the food court. Options usually include Japanese comfort foods and quick bites suitable for a ski day.
Yes, the resort is located on the road to Nyuto Onsen, which is famous for its hot springs and traditional inns that often offer dining experiences.
While not explicitly stated, bringing some snacks is generally acceptable at most ski resorts. However, purchasing food at the resort supports their operations.
Prices at ski resort restaurants can be on the higher side. Packing some snacks or looking for deals at the food court can help manage costs.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Tazawa, perfect for landscape shots.
Yes, especially on clear days. Capture the vastness of the slopes and the surrounding natural beauty. Action shots of skiing or snowboarding are also popular.
Morning light often provides softer, more flattering light for landscape photography. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also be beautiful.
The iconic view of Lake Tazawa from the mountain is the primary landmark. The resort's infrastructure, like the lifts, can also add to the scene.
While the focus is winter, summer offers lush green mountains and the serene beauty of Lake Tazawa, making it a different but still picturesque experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit