Relatively unknown to the international ski world, Kagura is a hidden gem offering up an authentic Japanese ski vacation without the overseas crowds. There is a variety of terrain spread across the three ski areas; Kagura, Mitsumata and Tashiro and plenty of powder-filled off-piste and backcountry to keep powderhounds entertained. If that's not enough, skiers and riders can access a whole other ski area at Naeba ski resort. Simply hop aboard the Dragondola, one of the longest lift lines in the world, to explore more!
Narita International Airport
Tokyo (40 minutes)
Echiogo-Yuzawa (1 hour 10 minutes)
Kagura (20-30 minutes)
Beginners are spoilt for choice at Kagura with tons of greens to choose from especially in the Tashiro Area. Our pick for beginners, however, is in the Mitsumata Area. The Family Trail near the off the Mitsumata High-Speed Lift No.1 is a gentle green slope while The Gondola course off the Kagura Gondola is a great progression trail that's also nice and long.
Intermediates should start off in the Tashiro area. While it's covered in beginner slopes, these trails are more like challenging greens which are great for intermediates plus they offer sweeping views as you cruise! Those looking to take it to the next level can test their skills on the slopes in the Kagura area.
While Kagura's slopes aren't the gnarliest, the Kagura Area has powder, moguls and steep trails worth exploring with the upper section best for the ultimate off-piste adventure. Our favorite piste would have to be the Expert Trail in the Forest course off the Kagura Pair Lift No. 5. Or for some off-piste fun, head into the trees off the Kagura High-Speed Lift No.1, you're bound to find some interesting rocks to jump off!
Kagura is still quite unknown internationally which means the lack of crowds (especially during the weekdays) sees powder stay fresher for longer. Plus there's fresh snowfall on most days during the peak season. Go off-piste to find the best stuff!
Besides weekends, there aren't many crowds here. At the end of the day, weekend queues coming down the Mitsumata Ropeway can easily be 30 minutes long. The Easy Trail above the Tashiro Ropeway also gets busy with beginners trying to get down.
Kagura is all about the skiing and riding the fresh powder and with no ski town, there is little in the way of entertaining non-skiers. If anything, the nearby town of Yuzawa will provide access to onsens (hot springs) and a range of dining options.
Despite having tons of beginner runs, Kagura lacks the activities and facilities to be a great family-friendly resort. There are also no childcare services or nurseries in Kagura, which is quite inconvenient for those with little ones.