Zao Ski Resort Guide
Zao, Japan
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| Recommended For | Expert Skiers, Intermediates, Beginners, Snowfall and Apres-Ski! |
|---|---|
| Total Piste Length | 43km 27 miles |
| Highest Lift | 1,661m 5,449ft |
| Resort Height | 780m 2,559ft |
| Nearest Airport | Sendai |
Zao
Zao Ski Resort offers a stunning winter landscape with diverse terrain. It’s renowned for its unique snow quality and beautiful scenery.
Summary
Zao is a popular ski destination located in Japan, known for its impressive snowfalls and picturesque views. The resort features a variety of runs suitable for all skill levels, making it perfect for families and seasoned skiers alike.
The ski area of Zao is at an altitude of 780m 2,559ft , with 43km 27 miles of marked runs.
Zao is one of the larger Ski Resorts in Japan and has direct access to 43km 27 miles of downhill skiing, with 60 marked pistes, served by a total of 42 ski lifts.
Notable Ski Runs
The longest possible descent in Zao is 6km 4 miles long.
Partner Offers
Snow and Weather
Zao is known for its reliable snow conditions, typically featuring a snow depth of around 1.5 to 3 meters during peak season. For the latest snow reports and conditions, check J2Ski for up-to-date information.
When will it snow in Zao?
The next notable snow forecast is 3cm 1in , expected on 18 February.
See our long-range Snow Forecast for the latest update.
Snow this week
| We | Th | Fr | Sa | Su | Mo | Tu |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Snow to resort | Snow to resort |
Ski Area Stats
Zao Ski Area
| Black Pistes Expert Trails | 5 | 2km 1 miles |
|---|---|---|
| Red Pistes Intermediate Runs | 22 | 16km 10 miles |
| Blue Pistes Easy Trails | 33 | 25km 16 miles |
| Downhill Total Length | 43km 27 miles | |
| Ski Lifts Number of Lifts | 42 | |
Zao Altitudes
| Highest Lift | 1,661m 5,449ft |
|---|---|
| Lowest Piste | 780m 2,559ft |
| Resort Altitude (Zao) | 780m 2,559ft |
| Max Vertical | 881m 2,890ft |
Ratings & Suitability
| Expert Skiers | |
|---|---|
| Intermediate Skiers | |
| Beginners | |
| Snow | |
| Apres-Ski |
Skiing
Zao boasts over 25 kilometers of ski runs, with elevations reaching 1,700 meters. Notable pistes include the Zao Onsen and the Karamatsu, complemented by lifts such as the Zao Ropeway and the Karamatsu Pair Lift, ensuring easy access to the slopes.
There are a variety of pistes to suit all levels of skier ability, from Beginner to Expert.
Ski Lessons in Zao
To choose a Ski School, and book Group Ski Lessons or a Private Instructor, see Zao Ski Schools and Zao Ski Instructors.
Snowboarding
Snowboarders will enjoy Zao's terrain parks, including the Zao Snow Park, which features jumps and rails suitable for all levels. The variety of runs and parks makes it an excellent choice for snowboard enthusiasts.
Location and Map
Where is Zao?
This ski resort is in Nagaoka Shi, Niigata, Japan.
Map
Tap 
for Full-Screen, or see J2Ski's Resort map, showing Hotels and Ski Shops.
How to get there
By Air
The nearest airport to Zao is Sendai, 128 minutes drive away.
Zao Ski Resort is accessible via major transport hubs like Sendai Airport, which is about 90 minutes away by bus. The resort is also reachable by train, with Yamagata Station being the closest major rail link.
Infrastructure
Ski Lift Capacity
The 42 ski lifts are able to uplift 54,084 skiers and snowboarders every hour.
Season Dates
When is Zao open?
We don't currently have confirmed season dates, but hope to soon.
Usual opening is early December, and usual closing is Late April.
NOTE:- Ski area, lift and piste opening is subject to Current Snow Conditions.
Aprés Ski
After a day on the slopes, unwind at popular spots like the Zao Onsen Hot Springs or enjoy a drink at the Zao Ski Center Bar. Dining options include local restaurants serving delicious Japanese cuisine.
