A Ski Resort with a Long History
The history of skiing in Kusatsu dates back to 1914, when a ski club was established and helped support the development of skiing culture in Japan during its early years.
The ski area was opened to the general public in 1935. After World War II, in 1948, the resort installed Japan’s first commercially operated ski lift for private business. These milestones give the resort an important place in the history of skiing in Japan.
In April 2018, the former Kusatsu International Ski Resort was renamed Kusatsu Onsen Ski Resort. The new name emphasizes its close connection with the hot spring town and reflects its development as a resort combining sightseeing, hot springs, and outdoor recreation.
Winter at Kusatsu Onsen Ski Resort
A Variety of Slopes for Beginners and Experienced Skiers
The ski area includes several slopes, such as Tenguyama, Onariyama, and Aobayama. Quad and pair lifts provide convenient access to the different areas.
Approximately half of the courses are designed for beginners, making the resort suitable for first-time skiers and families. Visitors who are new to skiing can enjoy the snow at a comfortable pace, while more experienced skiers can explore the longer and more varied courses.
The 3.2-kilometer Shakunage Course is one of the resort’s longer runs. Another highlight is the 2.0-kilometer R292 Course, which uses a section of National Route 292 that is closed to vehicles during winter, creating a unique skiing environment.
Night Skiing and Comfortable Resort Facilities
Night skiing is available on selected dates at the Tenguyama slope, offering the chance to glide through the snow after dark in a completely different atmosphere.
The resort also has restaurants and rest areas where visitors can warm up and enjoy a meal. Facilities such as Tenguyama Rest House and Crystal Ten provide convenient places to take a break between activities.
With parking for approximately 2,000 vehicles, the resort is also convenient for visitors traveling by car.
The Luxury of Combining Skiing with a Hot Spring
One of the greatest advantages of Kusatsu Onsen Ski Resort is the ability to combine a day of skiing with a relaxing hot spring bath.
After spending hours outdoors in the snow, visitors can head back toward Kusatsu Onsen and warm themselves in the famous mineral-rich waters. The enormous Sainokawara Open-Air Bath, known for its expansive natural setting and open-air atmosphere, is only about an eight-minute walk from the ski resort.
For travelers who want to combine sightseeing and skiing, or for skiers who want to relax in a traditional Japanese hot spring after a day on the slopes, this combination is one of the special pleasures of Kusatsu.
Tenguyama Play Zone — Summer and Green-Season Adventures
When the snow disappears, the ski slopes take on a completely different character. From spring through autumn, the area becomes the Tenguyama Play Zone.
At elevations of approximately 1,250–1,370 meters, the highland environment offers cool mountain air and beautiful scenery. A wide range of activities allows both children and adults to enjoy the resort during the warmer months.
BanZIP TENGU
BanZIP TENGU opened in April 2019 and quickly became one of the area’s signature attractions.
Starting from an elevation of approximately 1,370 meters, participants glide along a 500-meter-long zipline with a vertical difference of approximately 108 meters. Speeds can reach around 70 km/h.
As you fly above the mountain landscape, you can look out over the forests and mountains around Kusatsu and, depending on conditions, see the hot spring town below. It is an exhilarating experience that combines speed, altitude, and spectacular scenery.
SKY-SWING
SKY-SWING is a giant swing approximately 10 meters high. From the elevated starting point, riders swing outward with the sensation of launching into the open sky.
The feeling of floating above the mountain slopes, combined with the expansive panoramic view, makes this one of the most memorable attractions in the Tenguyama Play Zone.
Mountain Carts, Trampolines, and Mini Golf
Mountain carts allow visitors to ride specially designed carts down the grassy slopes. The activity is particularly popular with children and can be enjoyed together with parents or other family members.
The play zone also features trampolines and mini golf, providing easygoing ways to enjoy the outdoors without requiring advanced skills.
Easy BBQ and Camping in the Highlands
Visitors can enjoy a convenient hands-free barbecue experience at an elevation of approximately 1,250 meters. Equipment and preparation are simplified, allowing guests to enjoy an outdoor meal without having to worry about tasks such as starting the fire or cleaning up afterward.
The surrounding mountain scenery provides a beautiful backdrop for a relaxed meal with family and friends.
Camping is also available, with designated sites using part of the former ski slopes as well as areas for overnight stays in vehicles. Conditions and availability should be confirmed in advance before planning an overnight stay.
Ride to the Mountain Top on the Pulse Gondola Tengu
In December 2023, the Pulse Gondola Tengu was introduced, making it easier for families with young children and visitors who are sightseeing rather than skiing to reach the upper mountain area.
At the top, the Crystal Ten restaurant provides a place to relax while enjoying the highland scenery. On clear days, visitors can see across the surrounding mountain ranges, creating an impressive panoramic view.
Access
By Car
From the Shibukawa-Ikaho Interchange on the Kan-Etsu Expressway, the resort is approximately 60 kilometers away via National Routes 353, 145, and 292.
From the Usui-Karuizawa Interchange on the Joshin-Etsu Expressway, the distance is approximately 55 kilometers.
National Route 292 also offers an unusual roadside experience. Some sections feature a special musical road surface that plays the traditional Kusatsu folk song, “Kusatsu-bushi,” as vehicles drive over it at the appropriate speed.
By Public Transportation
From Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi Station on the JR Agatsuma Line, take a local bus for approximately 25–30 minutes and get off at the Kusatsu Onsen Bus Terminal.
During busy periods, a free shuttle bus may also operate between the town and the ski resort.
Safety Measures and the Resort Today
In January 2018, the eruption of Mount Kusatsu-Shirane’s Moto-Shirane volcano caused significant damage in the surrounding area. Following the eruption, safety measures were strengthened, operating areas were reviewed, and new courses and facilities were developed as the resort continued its operations.
Today, the resort’s operations focus primarily on the Tenguyama, Onariyama, and Aobayama areas, with safety measures incorporated into the management of the ski resort and its activities.
Hot Springs, Nature, and Adventure in One Resort
Kusatsu Onsen Ski Resort is much more than a place to ski. It is an all-season destination where visitors can combine mountain scenery, hot spring culture, winter sports, and outdoor activities.
In winter, snow-covered slopes and powder snow create a classic mountain resort experience. In spring, summer, and autumn, the green highlands become a playground filled with activities, panoramic views, and opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
And after an active day, the famous waters of Kusatsu Onsen are just minutes away.
Whether you want to add an outdoor adventure to a hot spring trip, enjoy nature with your family, or experience the changing scenery of the mountains throughout the year, Kusatsu Onsen Ski Resort offers a distinctive way to discover the highlands of Gunma.