This blog is brought to you by Hana, our Local Explorer — a travel-savvy voice from our team who specializes in uncovering Japan's seasonal and regional gems.
Winter is just around the corner! One of Japan’s most convenient ski resorts, GALA Yuzawa, will open for the 2025–2026 season on Saturday, December 20, 2025.
Located just about 80 minutes from Tokyo by Shinkansen, it’s the perfect winter getaway — whether you’re planning a ski day trip or your very first snow experience.
Direct Access from the Shinkansen
GALA Yuzawa is the only ski resort in Japan with its own Shinkansen station. Step off the train, and the gondola to the slopes is right in front of you!
No Gear? No Problem!
You can rent everything on-site — from skis and snowboards to jackets, pants, and gloves. Perfect for those who want to travel light.
Day Trip Friendly
Leave Tokyo in the morning, enjoy skiing or snow play, and be back in the city by evening. No car, no hassle.
Fun Even If You Don’t Ski
Try snow sledding, tubing, and other snow activities — ideal for families, couples, or anyone who just wants to enjoy the snow.
Great for First-Timers
Never seen snow before? GALA Yuzawa is one of the easiest and safest places in Japan to enjoy your first real winter wonderland.
Take the Joetsu Shinkansen “Toki” or "Tanigawa" from Tokyo Station or Ueno Station directly to GALA Yuzawa Station.
Travel time: about 80 minutes
Train runs multiple times per day
No transfers needed — the resort is connected to the station building
Once you arrive, you can walk straight to the rental counter, ticket office, and gondola entrance — all under one roof.
Resort Opening Date: December 20, 2025
Please note that you can select dates after December 20 only, as the train service to GALA Yuzawa operates only during the winter season.
Book your Shinkansen tickets* here:
Tokyo ⇄ GALA Yuzawa:
Tokyo → GALA Yuzawa Tickets / GALA Yuzawa → Tokyo Tickets
Ueno ⇄ GALA Yuzawa:
Ueno → GALA Yuzawa Tickets / GALA Yuzawa → Ueno Tickets
*Seats will be arranged one month before your travel date
For more details on lift passes, rentals, lessons, and snow activities, visit the official site:
🌐 GALA Yuzawa Official English Website
Shinkansen-Ticket.com is a Japan-based travel agency specializing in booking Shinkansen and limited express train tickets—including high-demand routes that are often difficult to secure. With nearly a decade of experience, we’ve built a reputation for reliable, flexible, and traveler-friendly service.
We provide both QR code-based tickets for easy station access, ideal for last-minute bookings, and physical paper tickets, which can be delivered to your home abroad, hotel, major post offices, or even a friend’s residence across Japan—perfect for carefully planned itineraries.
Our expertise in Japan’s rail system allows us to offer customized support with a deep understanding of routes, connections, and seating options—including oversized luggage seats, scenic views, and group arrangements.
Trusted by thousands of repeat customers and partnered with numerous hotels and travel agencies, we regularly assist in arranging train tickets for hotel guests and tour clients across Japan.
Hana
The Local Explorer
As a licensed travel services manager with over 10 years of experience in the industry, I’ve spent my career helping international travelers discover the charm of Japan’s regions, seasons, and cultural events.
From lavender fields to autumn leaves, I love showcasing Japan’s natural beauty and local festivals—especially those hidden gems you won’t find in every guidebook. My goal is to inspire your next unforgettable journey.