Kawaba Ski Resort

Kawaba Ski Resort is the highest ski resort in the greater Minakami area, offering consistent, high-quality powder snow thanks to its impressive 1,870m peak elevation. Just a few hours from Tokyo, it's an ideal choice for a winter escape.

With an incredible variety of terrain and a reputation for deep snow, Kawaba is perfect for all levels looking to elevate their riding. Wide-open groomers, a world-class terrain park, and excellent modern facilities make it one of the best ski resorts in Japan to enjoy the ultimate mountain experience.

Advanced skiers and riders will love the resort's premier freeride options, with thrilling tree skiing, early-morning first tracks, and epic backcountry access available to explore.

Easy access, a massive multi-level indoor base center, and unparalleled powder opportunities make Kawaba a top destination for both locals and international visitors.

Make the Most of Kawaba: Powder Experiences & Resort Extras

Kawaba is known for its super-dry powder, and the resort offers several extras that pair well with a private lesson. Reservations, availability and prices for these options are handled by Kawaba Ski Resort, so please check the official page for each one before you go.

OFF THE PISTE: Powder-Only Attraction Course

OFF THE PISTE is a non-groomed, powder-only attraction course with five entry gates inside the resort, created so more guests can experience Kawaba’s famous super-dry powder snow. To use it you need to complete a short check-in at the Mountaineering Counter on the 7th floor:

• Before you visit: watch the required training video on the official page.

• Reception: go to the Mountaineering Counter on the 7th floor and sign the agreement.

• Safety gear: rent a COCOHELI search transmitter (members can show their membership card). You then receive your registration card and the armband that allows entry to the area.

• On the snow: enter only through the designated gates, wearing the armband and COCOHELI at all times. Return both to the counter when you finish.

Entering over the red ropes is not allowed, and the area is skied at your own risk. Any rescue is charged separately. OFF THE PISTE official page (Japanese)

First Track Snowcat Service

Ride a snowcat to the summit before the resort opens and have the untouched slopes to yourself. Departures are at 7:40 on weekdays and 7:10 on weekends and national holidays, and punctuality is required. First Track can be booked on its own or together with a 1-day lift ticket, and groups of up to 13 can charge a whole snowcat (breakfast tickets included, enquire with the resort in advance). Individual places are booked online. First Track official page (Japanese)

POWDER LOUNGE

A premium lounge in the main building with a dedicated lounge area, cloakroom service and other premium services. Reservation is required. Kawaba also offers private rest rooms that can be reserved for the day, which suit families and groups. Facilities (Japanese)

Premium Rentals

Kawaba’s Premium Rentals put powder-shaped and freeride boards in the rental fleet, so beginners and intermediates can try shapes they would not normally find at a rental shop. Brands include Gentemstick, TJ Brand, Jones, Lib Tech, Burton and more, with Step On bindings and boots also available. Premium Rentals are collected at Murasaki Sports on the 7th floor of Kawaba City. The standard rental station offers well-known brands, changing rooms next to the rental area and a cheaper online pre-payment option when you apply by the day before. Rental official page (Japanese)

Getting Around & Facilities

• Free multi-storey parking next to the slopes (1,800 spaces).

• Free daily winter shuttle bus between the roadside station “Kawaba Denen Plaza” and the resort, helpful if you are not confident driving on icy roads.

• Restaurants inside the base building serve Japanese, Chinese and Western food, with vegan and halal menus available.

• Free Wi-Fi on the 7th and 8th floors of Kawaba City.

Kawaba Ski Resort official page (English)

Access Information

The Kanetsu Expressway (toll road) runs through Gunma. The journey from Nerima IC in northern Tokyo to Numata IC will take approximately 2 hours without traffic. Kawaba Ski Resort is located 17km away from Numata IC.

Address: 2755 Mawatari, Kawaba-mura, Tone-gun, Gunma, Japan

Visit Kawaba Ski Resort Official page

How about our winter package?

If you would like a total plan that includes accommodation arrangements, transportation, and other sightseeing, please check out our Canyons Winter Package Plans. Our Minakami specialists will create the perfect plan for your needs.

Canyons Winter Packages

Need more Information?

Find answers to common questions in our FAQs

Not sure about your ski or snowboard level?
Check our ability level guide to find the right lesson for you

Insurance:
The price of the lesson does not include accident insurance. Please obtain travel insurance to cover snowsports and all participants. We recommend ALL lesson participants have travel insurance.

Lift passes and rentals:
Lift tickets and rental are not included in the price and are to be prepared before the lesson start time.

Ready to book?
Submit your booking request here

Please feel free to contact us with any other questions you may have and we will be happy to help at snowsports@canyons.jp

Canyons Recommends