Located less than an hour from Nagano Station, Togakushi Ski Resort is a small but highly enjoyable ski area popular with locals. Consisting of 19 ski runs serviced by 7 chairlifts – a total of around 58 hectares of piste and 550 metres of vertical – Togakushi is indeed relatively small but unlike the larger resorts of Hakuba, it retains its Japanese character.
Mostly frequented by Japanese, you won’t encounter the crowds and hugely international profile of the Hakuba resorts. Weekdays are likely to be quiet and when the snow is good, this is a highly entertaining resort that you’ll wish you discovered earlier! The resort remains heavily focused on skiers with snowboarders a relative rarity and those that are there usually know what they’re doing. The lack of snowboard newbies at Togakushi is a positive, as the ski runs are uncluttered by first-timers allowing intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders to go about their business without hindrance.
Togakushi can’t boast the massive snowfall of others resorts in Nagano. Indeed its season average of less than 8 metres seems somewhat disappointing however the quality of its powder is good. Togakushi also experiences significantly colder temperatures than other resorts meaning that the snow stays in better condition for longer.
Where is Togakushi Ski Resort?
Togakushi Ski Resort is located only around 20km north of Nagano Station, and is actually administered as a part of Nagano City. It is nearby to other famous ski resorts such as Hakuba, Nozawa, and Shiga Kogen, but it maintains a more laid back and local character than those larger resorts. Located around 250 km away from Tokyo, it is nonetheless easy to reach thanks to the Shinkansen (Bullet Train) service connecting Tokyo and Nagano Station. From there, bus services provide easy access to Togakushi Ski Resort, with bus 70 providing the most convenient service and taking a little over an hour to arrive. Alternatively, hiring a taxi will allow for a shorter travel time at just under 50 minutes. For more information on how to reach the area, please see our 'How to Get to Togakushi' page.
Togakushi Ski Resort: Nagano's Hidden Gem
Togakushi very much flies under the radar for international visitors with very few ever venturing to this distinctively local and decent little resort. Actually located within the boundaries of Nagano City, Togakushi Ski Resort can be accessed from Nagano Station using local bus services or a taxi. Popular with local families, the resort can be busy on weekends and holidays but should you make it there during the week, you are likely to have it largely to yourself. One of the more picturesque resorts in the region - on clear days you'll have fantastic views of the surrounding mountains - Togakushi is well-suited to visitors wanting to escape the international feel and crowds of Hakuba and enjoy a distinctly Japanese winter adventure.
Operating Dates & Times
Dependent on snow conditions, the resort is typically open from mid-December until late-March or early-April. Lifts operate daily from 08:30 to 16:30. Togakushi does not have night-skiing.
Ski Runs
Togakushi offers a total of 58ha of terrain accessed via 19 ski runs and 7 chairlifts. Courses breakdown as: beginner 30% / intermediate 40% / advanced 30%. The resort sits between 1300 to 1749 metres with a modest 548 metres of vertical and actually offers some steep black runs which when full of powder, are left ungroomed and a lot of fun.
Highlights
Togakushi is largely unknown by international visitors however given its close proximity to Nagano Station and typically quiet ski runs, it has quite a lot of going for it. There’s a nice mix of terrain suitable for all levels with some gentle and wide runs perfect for beginners, while multiple black runs will keep advanced riders entertained. The black runs on the back side of the resort are steep and left ungroomed. Most people don’t venture down them on days of heavy snow meaning that you can find some truly awesome powder there on days of heavy snow. On clear days, the resort offers fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.
Tickets & Passes
A day-pass will cost: Adults JPY5000 / Children JPY3000 / Seniors (50+) JPY4500 while a half-day pass will cost: Adults JPY4000 / Children JPY2500 / Seniors (50+) JPY3500.
Please note that these rates change each season, and this may not be reflective of the rate for the upcoming ski season.
Rental & Ski School
Togakushi has a good rental shop offering both ski and snowboard gear, located behind the resort’s main building. There is also a ski school located directly across from the main building however instruction is only available in Japanese.
Backcountry
The resort does not permit backcountry and sidecountry is very limited. This will likely frustrate advanced skiers and snowboarders looking to get off-piste. If that’s you, Togakushi might not be the best fit.
Kids & Families
There is a good-sized kids activity area located directly across from the resorts main building, which on fine days also has great views of the surrounding mountains. There are no day-care services at Togakushi.
Accommodation & Village Info
The area around the ski resort is home to multiple ski lodges. Most are family-run and offer homely experiences including dinner and breakfast. However, visitors headed to Togakushialso might want to consider some more unique in the form of the many 'shukubo' (temple lodgings) and 'ryokan' (traditional guesthouses) that are associated with the important Shinto shrine complex nearby the resort. For acommodation listings in the area, see our 'Togakushi Area' hotel page. Alternatively, the area is within easy reach of Nagano City allowing you to also stay there and then make the journey up and down by local bus or taxi. For accommodation listings in Nagano, see our 'Nagano City Area' hotel page.
Japan Ski Resorts: Everything you need to Know
Did you know that Togakushi is just one of the more than eighty ski resorts in Nagano and more than five hundred in Japan? Needless to say, when you choose Nagano for your winter getaway you are spoiled for choice! Our ‘Japan Ski Resorts’ page has everything you need to know to start planning your ski and snowboard adventure including: LATEST NEWS & DEALS, THE BEST RESORTS IN NAGANO & JAPAN, FAQs and of course OUR SKI PACKAGES, ACCOMMODATION, TRANSPORT & TOURS.
Tours and Charters to Togakushi
Discover Togakushi with ease through our guided tours and private charters, offering seamless access to its shrines, ninja heritage, and natural beauty.
Group and Private Tours
Togakushi is perfect to visit in Winter, and we offer a tour option to make it happen below! You can also visit Togakushi through us at other times of year to appreciate the fantastic scenery.
Private 1-Day Tour of Winter Togakushi: Snow, Shrine & Cedar Trees / December – March
High in the mountains just outside Nagano City lies Togakushi, a timeless village where snow-covered forests, sacred shrines, and winter adventures await. Surrounded by legends and towering cedars, Togakushi is one of Japan’s most spiritual destinations—and in winter, it transforms into a serene snowy wonderland. This private tour offers family-friendly snow fun or optional skiing at the quiet and scenic Togakushi Ski Resort, followed by a peaceful journey into the forest trails and shrines that define the area's spiritual legacy. Enjoy an easy-to-access winter escape with pickup from popular areas including Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, Shiga Kogen, and more.
* Please note that skiing or snowboarding is not included in the tour price. Lift passes, equipment rental, and skiing activities are at the guest’s own expense and risk.
1-Day Togakushi Legends Tour: Hands-on Soba Noodles, Ninja Village, and Hidden Shrines / July to November
Based in Central Japan and operating in July, August, September, October and November, we offer a highly entertaining group-tour of Togakushi that is sure to please! All tours are led by locally-based guides and combine a visit to several places-of-interest in Togakushi, including a hands-on soba noodle crafting experience, ninja village trick house, and a visit to an ancient Shinto shrine hidden within the avenue of giant cedars! Our tours are fun, interactive and family-friendly. For more information, or to book a tour, click on the banner or button below.
1-Day Togakushi Legends Tour: Hands-on Soba Noodles, Ninja Village, and Hidden Shrines
- Spots:
- NaganoTogakushi
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Of course, we also offer private tours and transport in and around the Togakushi area, and other regional destinations. Our drivers and vehicles are fully certified, allowing us to transport you to and from your preferred destinations in combination with any activity that suits your schedule. All vehicles are well-maintained and in good condition, allowing you to relax and enjoy your ride to wherever you are going.
We can arrange both private tours with an English-speaking guide or a private charter, including a private vehicle and driver but without a guide. We’d love to be part of your adventure in Central Japan and help you discover even more!
Got a question about visiting Togakushi or the general Nagano area? Click the ‘INQUIRY’ button below to contact us and let’s get planning together!
Private Charters from Ski Resorts to Togakushi
Do you want to visit Togakushi as a rest day from the slopes, or do you want to challenge those slopes yourself? We have perfect instantly bookable options from the following ski resorts that can help you travel in convenience and style to these storied woods. Please see the various charter options below:
Private Round-trip Charter from Hakuba to Togakushi
Private Round-trip Charter from Nozawa Onsen to Togakushi
NOZAWA ONSEN → TOGAKUSHI (2HR) → NOZAWA ONSEN
- Duration:
- 4-5 Hours
- Spots:
- Nozawa Onsen, Togakushi
Private Round-trip Charter from Shiga Kogen to Togakushi
ICHINOSE/TAKAMAGAHARA (SHIGA KOGEN) → TOGAKUSHI (2HR) → ICHINOSE/TAKAMAGAHARA (SHIGA KOGEN)
- Duration:
- 5-6 Hours
- Spots:
- Shiga Kogen, Togakushi
If your chosen start and end points are not listed here, you can always hit the inquiry button at the bottom right of this page in order to start a conversation with us to get a quotation for your desired trip! If you would like to spend longer at this great ski resort option during your trip, please just contact us and we will be able to assist!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Togakushi Ski Resort?
Togakushi Ski Resort is a small but enjoyable ski area located less than an hour from Nagano Station. With 19 ski runs, 7 chairlifts, and 550 metres of vertical, it offers a distinctly Japanese skiing experience with fewer crowds than the larger resorts of Hakuba and Shiga Kogen.
Where is Togakushi Ski Resort located?
The resort is around 20 km north of Nagano Station and is part of Nagano City. It is easily accessible by local buses (Bus 70 takes just over an hour) or a taxi in under 50 minutes. It is near other popular ski destinations but retains a quiet, local character.
What makes Togakushi Ski Resort different from other Nagano resorts?
Unlike Hakuba or Shiga Kogen, Togakushi remains largely undiscovered by international visitors. It offers a more traditional Japanese atmosphere, quieter slopes, and a focus on skiing rather than snowboarding. Its smaller size and local charm make it ideal for those wanting to avoid crowded resorts.
When is Togakushi Ski Resort open?
Dependent on snow conditions, the resort typically operates from mid-December until late March or early April. Lift hours are daily from 08:30 to 16:30, and there is no night skiing.
How many ski runs and lifts are available?
Togakushi Ski Resort features 19 ski runs and 7 chairlifts, covering a total of 58 hectares. The terrain mix is 30% beginner, 40% intermediate, and 30% advanced, with some steep black runs on the back side left ungroomed for powder enthusiasts.
Is Togakushi Ski Resort suitable for beginners?
Yes. The resort offers gentle and wide runs suitable for beginners, while also providing intermediate and advanced options, including ungroomed black runs for experienced skiers. It also features a beginner's area complete with ninja decorations and obstacle courses to complete with your skis!
What is the snow like at Togakushi Ski Resort?
Togakushi receives less total snowfall than other major resorts (less than 8 metres on average), but the colder winter temperatures preserve the quality of the powder. This makes it ideal for skiers seeking consistent snow conditions.
Are snowboarders allowed at Togakushi?
Yes, but snowboarders are relatively rare at Togakushi. Most visitors are skiers, which keeps the slopes uncrowded and more enjoyable for intermediate and advanced riders.
Does Togakushi Ski Resort have backcountry or off-piste options?
Backcountry skiing is not permitted at Togakushi, and sidecountry options are limited. Advanced skiers seeking off-piste terrain may prefer other nearby resorts.
What facilities are available at Togakushi Ski Resort?
The resort has a rental shop for both skis and snowboards located behind the main building. There is a ski school across from the main building, though instruction is only available in Japanese. A kids’ activity area is also available nearby. There is also child-care services available at certain times.
What are the ticket prices for Togakushi Ski Resort?
Day-pass prices: Adults JPY 5000, Children JPY 3000, Seniors (50+) JPY 4500. Half-day passes: Adults JPY 4000, Children JPY 2500, Seniors JPY 3500.
Please note that these prices change by year, and may not reflect the upcoming season's prices.
Where can I stay near Togakushi Ski Resort?
Nearby accommodations include family-run ski lodges, shukubo (pilgrim lodgings), and traditional ryokan guesthouses. Visitors can also stay in Nagano City and commute via bus or taxi, or our private charter services and tours at Snow Monkey Resorts. For full listings, see our Togakushi Area hotel page.
How do I get to Togakushi Ski Resort from Tokyo?
Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano Station (around 1.5 hours), then a local bus or taxi or our private charter services and tours at Snow Monkey Resorts to Togakushi Ski Resort. The journey by bus takes just over an hour.
Are there guided tours or charters available to Togakushi Ski Resort?
Yes. Snow Monkey Resorts offers private charters and group tours from nearby ski resorts including Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, and Shiga Kogen, making it easy to visit Togakushi as a day trip or for multiple days.
Why choose Snow Monkey Resorts for Togakushi Ski Resort?
Snow Monkey Resorts provides expert guides, English-speaking support, and curated tours or charters. Visitors can enjoy stress-free travel, insider knowledge, and assistance in combining Togakushi Ski Resort with other regional attractions like shrines, ninja heritage, and nature walks.
What is the best time to ski at Togakushi Ski Resort?
The resort is open from mid-December to late March or early April. Weekdays are quieter, and the back black runs offer excellent powder conditions after fresh snowfall.