While Japan’s countless ski resorts are a haven for skiers and snowboarders, there might not be a lot to do for those who prefer to stay off the slopes. That’s where the new Snow Garden at Ishiuchi Maruyama Ski Resort in Niigata comes in.
The new complex is open until Sunday April 2 and features transparent dome tents where you can enjoy food, drinks and activities.
If you want to take in the fresh air, there are also terrace seats with small tables facing the snowy landscape of the ski resort.
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The cosy tents are equipped with tables, chairs and rugs, so you can take your shoes off and relax. You can order takeaway lunch from the nearby Austrian Snow House, where you can tuck into hearty bites including roast beef or pulled pork sandwiches and even pancakes. If you want to check out some other snowy activities, snowshoeing and sledding are both available near the garden.
The Snow Garden is open from 10am to 4pm daily and you can book the private tents for 60 minutes at a time. To get to the garden, you'll need to take the Sunrise Express gondola up to the top of the mountain. From there, you’ll see signs leading you to the Snow Garden area. Advance bookings cost ¥3,600 per adult (including tent use and gondola ride), ¥2,300 for children six to 12 years of age, ¥1,500 for children four to five years of age, and free for children under three years of age.
To book a spot, visit the website.
This article was published on February 21 2022 and updated on February 27 2023.
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