The Birthplace of Skiing in Japan! This historic ski resort is perfect for beginners.
◆Operating Period: Opening date to be determined to Sunday, March 8, 2026
1.Features of the slopes and courses
2.Date
1.Features of the slopes and courses
Kanayasan Ski Resort is just a 5-minute drive from the Joetsu-Takada Interchange on the Joshinetsu Expressway. It’s located right near the downtown area of Takada, Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture.
In 1911, Major Theodor von Lerch, a military officer of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, first introduced skiing techniques to Japan in a comprehensive manner. The area is also known as the birthplace of skiing in Japan.
Kanaya Mountain Symbol Mark Bronze Statue of Major Reulh
This compact municipal ski slope offers three courses with varying degrees of difficulty to suit all skill levels, including a challenging advanced course with a maximum gradient of 27 degrees (50% intermediate / 50% advanced).
Additionally, there is a free sledding area beside the slopes. Families with children can enjoy it with peace of mind. On weekends, the lively voices of children echo through the area. On clear days, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Takada Plain from near the summit. Be sure to take in the snow-covered townscape as well.
Every Saturday, elementary and junior high school students residing in Joetsu City can ride the lifts for free by presenting their “Joetsu City Children’s Day Passport.” This is also recommended for children practicing skiing or making their skiing debut. Additionally, the “Major Rehrig Festival” will be held on February 7th and 8th to pass on Major Rehrig’s great achievements to future generations. Various events are planned for both days, and food stalls offering local gourmet cuisine are scheduled to be set up. Enjoy the festivities with family and friends.
Relkh Festival – 115th Anniversary of Skiing’s Birth in Japan –
■Date and Time: Saturday, February 7, 2026, 12:00 PM to 7:30 PM; Sunday, February 8, 2026, 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Saturday, 1st: Main Event Highlights:
・Australian Beer & Food Booths
・Stage Events
・Torchlight Skiing
・Music Star Mine Fireworks Display, etc.
Day 2 (Sun) Main Event Schedule:
・Single-pole skiing workshop
・Australian beer & food booths open
2.Date
■Day 2 (Sun) Main Event Schedule:
・Single-pole skiing workshop
・Australian beer & food booths open
■Operating Period: Opening date to be determined to Sunday, March 8, 2026
■Business Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
■Lift Fees: Single Ride Ticket: Adults (High School and Above): ¥210 Children (Junior High School and Below): ¥160 11-Ride Ticket: Adults (High School and Above): ¥2100 Children (Junior High School and Below): ¥1600
※Every Saturday, elementary and junior high school students residing in Joetsu City can ride the lifts for free by presenting their “Joetsu City Children’s Day Passport.”
※Rental services are not available.
Kanayasan Ski Resort
Address:
Tel: 025-525-4295
Access: ＜Car＞ Joetsu-Takada IC on the Joshinetsu Expressway: approx. 5 min. Joetsu IC on the Hokuriku Expressway: approx. 20 min.
URL: https://joetsukankonavi.jp/spot/detail.php?id=23
