Pine Ridge Resorts Kandatsu, Yuzawa

Ability Level: Beginners to intermediate.

This resort has a little of something for everybody. Wide open beginners pistes, with some challenging courses including a 45 degree slope. Also has a great terrain park

Click here for more information on this ski resort: Pine Ridge Resorts Kandatsu

Gala Yuzawa Ski Resort

Ability Level: Beginners to low intermediate, although there are one or two more challenging courses and a great terrain park.

Nothing beats this resort for convenience - youhop straight off the bullet train, straight through to the ski resort gondola.

This resort is great for beginners and families, and for terrain park daredevils.

Click here for more information on this resort: Gala Yuzawa Ski Resort

Kagura Ski Resort, Yuzawa

Ability Level: All. There are some gentle slopes lower down the mountain, but the most fun to be had is on the intermediate to advanced courses higher up.

This resort combines Mitsumata, Kagura and Tashiro areas - and also connects to Naeba ski resort.

Click here for more information on this resort: Kagura Ski Resort

Nozawa Onsen

Ability Level: Lots for everybody

More travel involved than for Niigata resorts, but worth it if you have the time for a slightly longer stay.

Fantastic views and atmosphere, great powder runs, lots of interesting beginner runs...and all set in a traditional onsen town: a real Japan Ski or Snowboard experience.

Click here for more information on this resort: Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort