Snow Country Yeti: A Winter Wonderland at the Foot of Mount Fuji
Snow Town Yeti is a small ski resort nestled on the southern slopes of Mount Fuji, offering a unique winter experience in Japan. As one of only two ski resorts on Mount Fuji (the other being Fujiten), Snow Town Yeti stands out for its early season opening, typically in mid to late October, making it one of the first snow resorts to welcome visitors in Japan each year.
Key Information at a Glance
- Location: Southern slope of Mount Fuji
- Operating Season: Late October to late March
- Ski Runs: 4 runs, suitable for beginners to intermediate skiers
- Lifts: 3 lifts
- Unique Feature: One of the earliest opening ski resorts in Japan, equipped with artificial snow-making systems
The History of Snow Town Yeti
The history of Snow Town Yeti is closely tied to the development of modern ski tourism in Japan. In the 1990s, following the burst of Japan’s economic bubble, many people began seeking affordable leisure activities. This shift created new opportunities for the ski industry, and Snow Town Yeti emerged as a convenient ski destination for residents of Tokyo and surrounding areas.
Since its inception, Snow Town Yeti has continuously improved its facilities and services, introducing advanced snow-making technology to ensure quality slopes even when natural snowfall is scarce. This innovation has been key to its ability to open earlier than most ski resorts in Japan. Over the years, it has become not only a haven for ski enthusiasts but also a prime spot for enjoying breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, attracting countless domestic and international visitors.
Main Peak Ski Run: A Paradise for Beginners
The Main Peak Ski Run is one of Snow Town Yeti’s signature slopes, stretching about 1000 meters with a moderate gradient that’s perfect for beginners and intermediate skiers. The run gently descends from the summit to the base, offering stunning views of Mount Fuji along the way. Pine trees line both sides of the slope, their snow-laden branches glistening in the winter sun, creating a fairy-tale-like atmosphere.
For those new to skiing, the Main Peak Run provides an ideal learning environment. The wide slope area ensures ample space for movement, reducing the risk of collisions. The gradient changes are subtle, allowing novices to gradually adapt to speed variations and build confidence. At the base of the slope, there’s a dedicated practice area equipped with a magic carpet lift, perfect for beginners to repeatedly practice basic techniques.
Beyond skiing, the Main Peak Run is an excellent vantage point for admiring Mount Fuji. On clear days, the majestic silhouette of Fuji-san is visible from the top of the run, offering a unique experience that combines skiing with spectacular scenery – a hallmark of Snow Town Yeti’s charm.
Challenger Run: A Haven for Intermediate Skiers
The Challenger Run is Snow Town Yeti’s dedicated course for intermediate skiers. Approximately 500 meters long with a steeper gradient and varied terrain, this run offers an advanced challenge for those who have mastered the basics. The surrounding forest not only adds to the natural beauty but also provides good directional reference for skiers.
The design of this run cleverly incorporates several turns and undulations, allowing skiers to practice various advanced techniques such as quick turns, jumps, and obstacle avoidance. Midway down the run, there’s a small jump for thrill-seekers to showcase their skills. The bottom of the run features a deceleration zone to ensure skiers can safely complete their descent.
It’s worth noting that the Challenger Run is closed during night skiing hours to ensure visitor safety. During the day, however, it’s a popular spot for ski enthusiasts to hone their skills and for spectators to watch impressive displays of skiing prowess.
Kids’ Snow Park: A Joyful Realm for Little Snow Enthusiasts
Snow Town Yeti’s Kids’ Snow Park is a specially designed area for family visitors, located adjacent to the main ski area and covering approximately 2000 square meters. With its gentle terrain and thick snow cover, it’s an ideal place for children to experience snow activities. The park features various entertainment facilities, including small ski slopes, sledding tracks, and snow sculpture areas, allowing children to fully enjoy the winter fun.
Safety is a top priority in the design of the Kids’ Snow Park. All facilities are equipped with soft padding, and staff members patrol the area throughout the day to ensure children’s safety. The park also offers rental services for child-specific snow equipment, including small-sized skis, sleds, and safety helmets.
In addition to snow play, the Kids’ Snow Park regularly organizes interactive activities such as snow treasure hunts and snowman-building competitions, adding to the fun. In one corner of the park, there’s a warm rest area where parents can take a break without losing sight of their children. This thoughtful design makes Snow Town Yeti a truly family-friendly ski resort.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Snow Town Yeti is typically from mid-December to late February. During this period, natural snowfall is abundant, snow quality is at its best, and temperatures are ideal for skiing and snowboarding. Weekends and the Japanese winter holiday season (usually from late December to early January) are the busiest times, so it’s advisable to book in advance.
If you prefer to avoid crowds, consider visiting on weekdays or in early March during the late season. While snow conditions might not be as pristine as during peak season, there are fewer people and prices are generally lower. For those eager to experience early season skiing, late October to November is a good choice. Although mainly relying on artificial snow, it offers the earliest ski experience in Japan.
Transportation Guide
By Public Transport
- From Tokyo:
- Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen to Mishima Station or the JR Gotemba Line to Gotemba Station.
- During ski season, direct buses run from Mishima Station (70-80 minutes, 1830 yen one-way) and Gotemba Station (60-75 minutes, 1570 yen one-way).
- From Fuji Station:
- Direct buses are available, taking about 90 minutes and costing 1870 yen one-way.
By Car
- From Tokyo: Take the Tomei Expressway and exit at Gotemba IC. Then follow Route 138 for about 22 km.
- Parking: The resort offers free parking for approximately 500 vehicles.
- Note: Winter roads can be icy, so snow tires or chains are recommended.
Opening Hours and Ticket Information
Opening Hours
- Ski Season: Typically from around October 20th to March 31st of the following year
- Daily Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Night Skiing Hours: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM (only on specific dates)
Ticket Prices
- Full Day Pass: 4300 yen on weekdays, 5000 yen on weekends and holidays
- Night Skiing Pass: 2900 yen
- Discounts available for children and seniors
- Equipment Rental: Ski set about 4000 yen/day, Sled about 1000 yen/day
Visitor Tips and Advice
- Book in Advance: During peak season, pre-book lift tickets and equipment rentals to avoid queues.
- Dress Appropriately: Even in early spring, temperatures can be very low on the mountain. Wear warm, waterproof clothing.
- Sun Protection: UV rays are strong at high altitudes. Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Beginner Lessons: The resort offers professional ski instruction. Beginners are advised to sign up.
- Resort Rules: Adhere to all resort regulations and prioritize safety.
- Essential Items: Besides ski gear, bring plenty of water and energy snacks.
- Photography: The resort offers beautiful scenery, especially views of Mount Fuji. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
Official Website
Conclusion
Snow Town Yeti is more than just a ski resort; it’s a gateway to appreciating Mount Fuji’s beauty and experiencing Japanese winter culture. Whether you’re a ski enthusiast or a traveler looking to enjoy winter hot springs, Snow Town Yeti offers an unforgettable experience. Just a few hours from Tokyo, you can find yourself in this winter wonderland. Why not plan your next winter trip to Snow Town Yeti and experience the magic of Japan’s winter for yourself?
Image source: shoryudo.go-centraljapan.jp