The Echigo-Yuzawa area of Niigata Prefecture is one of the snowiest places in Japan; in summer it transforms into a vast mountain resort. It’s the perfect, natural setting to enjoy a refreshing summer vacation.
At three of the main area ski resorts are summer-specific facilities: Yuzawa Kogen Panorama Park, GALA Summer Park and The Veranda at Ishiuchi Maruyama. Experience a variety of activities, and some outstanding scenery. Enjoy your very own summer in Echigo- Yuzawa!
In summer, the white runs of the winter ski areas are replaced with deep green mountains and fields. Here you’ll find a wide range of activities to enjoy: action sports that make use of the ski slopes, viewing the scenery accessible by the area’s gondolas and ski lifts, restaurants serving gourmet meals, and much more.
Exiting the world’s largest ropeway—capable of carrying 166 people—you’ll come to a spacious, open terrace with amazing views of the majestic mountains all around. Enjoy hiking and other activities that make use of the mountain terrain, savor delicious local cuisine, take in the Alpine Botanical Garden featuring rare mountain blossoms, and more.
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About 8 min on foot from Echigo-Yuzawa Station
Some of the fun outdoor activities in the great Echigo-Yuzawa outdoors include the Summer Bobsled 706, which runs down one of the ski slopes; the Zipline Adventure; Mountaincarts; and the Gorone no Hara field athletics area.
The Rock Garden recreates the natural Alpine environment found at an altitude of 2,500 meters; here you’ll find more than 200 species of rare high-mountain plants. Also recommended is a stroll on the boardwalk circling Ayamegaike Pond, and the beautiful scenery reflected on the water surface.
Pass through a tunnel and into a cavern, where you’ll discover shining stones glittering in the darkness. Then the unearthed gems can be arranged into necklaces or placed in decorated boxes. This is an indoor event, so it’s a great choice even when it’s raining.
GALA Summer Park provides a range of attractions for everyone from children to adults. Experience exhilarating outdoor activities with panoramic views of the Tanigawa mountain range, including the Mountaincart, which you steer and brake on the way down from the top of the mountain.
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About 10 min by shuttle bus from the East exit of Echigo-Yuzawa Station (Free of charge)
Originating in Europe, the Mountaincart provides a thrilling experience as you drive and brake on the way down from the top of the hill. Get ready for speeds up to 50 kph!
At the Bungee Trampoline, you not only jump on a trampoline but also fly higher due to bungee cords attached to your harness. Enjoy a sense of weightlessness as you fly up into the sky; suitable for everyone from four years old to adults.
The Spa GALA no Yu offers not only an onsen (hot spring), but a glass-enclosed fitness pool with outstanding views, an open-air jacuzzi and a children’s pool. All indoor, so you can enjoy even on rainy days.
A ride on this ski resort’s comfortable, state-of-the-art gondola takes about seven minutes to rise up to the observation area. Here is the perfect spot for an elegant experience, such as enjoying lunch or teatime at the café, with scenes of tranquil rural landscapes and impressive mountain ranges lying all around below.
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About 10 min by bus from Echigo-Yuzawa Station
The observation area here is one of the largest in the area, with a panoramic view of Minami-Uonuma city. Explore and enjoy the Dome Tent for a taste of glamping, and the distinctive lineup of teepees at the Field Lounge.
Enjoy the unforgettable views only available at Ishiuchi Maruyama ski area, such as the sight of the twilight and sunset, and the night view of Minami-Uonuma city. Only open for a limited period in summer, so be sure to check the website before visiting!
A new addition to the café’s menu is a drink inspired by the colorful gradations of the twilight sky. The bitter, rich flavor of espresso is combined with the refreshing acidity of orange to create a fruit-flavored coffee beverage ideal for summer.
While enjoying everything Echigo-Yuzawa’s ski areas have to offer in summer, be sure to take a few side trips to take in other regional attractions. There’s amazing scenery and a rich history here in Japan’s Snow Country. Even inside Echigo-Yuzawa Station are a number of shops selling Niigata confectioneries and other famous products, making it an ideal place for some shopping.
* A free shuttle bus is available in the summer months from Echigo-Yuzawa Station and GALA Summer Park.
* A free shuttle bus runs between Yuzawa Kogen Panorama Park and The Veranda at Ishiuchi Maruyama on weekends, holidays and other specified days.
