The scenery from the connecting lift between the former Nekoma Ski Resort and Alts Bandai was absolutely wonderful. It's recommended for everyone, but the slope after getting off the lift at the former Nekoma Ski Resort is not suitable for beginners. The snow quality is excellent, with powder snow. However, be prepared for a wait of over 40 minutes for the lift at the bottom of the former Nekoma Ski Resort.
Date of visit January 2024
阿綸
Male・Taiwan・Solo trip
Amazing
Early bird ski pass prices are seriously recommended!
Despite the generally poor snow conditions in 2026, the snow quality in the Nekoma North area was surprisingly good. There weren't many people in this area either. The fan-shaped run configuration eventually leads back to the center of the North area. However, this area is only suitable for intermediate to advanced skiers. Beginners are better off practicing in the South area. For skiing in other areas, it is recommended to ski on the black line only if you can, because the downhill run connecting to the lifts in the North area often only has the black line open. For accommodation, I recommend Lake Resort in Ribandai. It has a free shuttle bus, which is very convenient. Regarding transportation, there is a chance that the JR Ban'e West Line will be delayed. If you plan to transfer to the main line in Koriyama, it is recommended not to rush the time.
The scenery from the connecting lift between the former Nekoma Ski Resort and Alts Bandai was absolutely wonderful. It's recommended for everyone, but the slope after getting off the lift at the former Nekoma Ski Resort is not suitable for beginners. The snow quality is excellent, with powder snow. However, be prepared for a wait of over 40 minutes for the lift at the bottom of the former Nekoma Ski Resort.
Date of visit January 2024
阿綸
Male・Taiwan・Solo trip
Amazing
Early bird ski pass prices are seriously recommended!
Despite the generally poor snow conditions in 2026, the snow quality in the Nekoma North area was surprisingly good. There weren't many people in this area either. The fan-shaped run configuration eventually leads back to the center of the North area. However, this area is only suitable for intermediate to advanced skiers. Beginners are better off practicing in the South area. For skiing in other areas, it is recommended to ski on the black line only if you can, because the downhill run connecting to the lifts in the North area often only has the black line open. For accommodation, I recommend Lake Resort in Ribandai. It has a free shuttle bus, which is very convenient. Regarding transportation, there is a chance that the JR Ban'e West Line will be delayed. If you plan to transfer to the main line in Koriyama, it is recommended not to rush the time.
How can I access Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain from Tokyo or major airports?
To access Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain (formerly Alts Bandai & Nekoma Ski Resort) from Tokyo Station, take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Koriyama Station (approx. 1 hour 20 mins), and then board a shuttle bus (some buses are exclusive to Hoshino Resorts staying guests, please verify). By car, access the South Area via the Ban-etsu Expressway Bandai Kawahigashi IC, or the North Area via Inawashiro Bandai Kogen IC.
Are "Alts Bandai" and "Nekoma" the same ski resort?
At Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain (formerly Alts Bandai & Nekoma Ski Resort), while they used to operate separately on opposite sides of Mount Bandai (Alts Bandai on the Omote-Bandai side and Nekoma Ski Resort on the Ura-Bandai side), they have now been linked by a summit-connecting pair lift. Together, they have been reborn as "Nekoma Mountain," one of Japan's largest massive resorts.
What are the differences between the North and South areas?
At Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain (formerly Alts Bandai & Nekoma Ski Resort), the South Area (formerly Alts Bandai) offers breathtaking long course runs overlooking Mount Bandai and Lake Inawashiro and extensive facilities. The North Area (formerly Nekoma Ski Resort) features north-facing slopes resulting in "Micro Fine Snow" offering highly-rated conditions typically lasting till Golden Week.
Is there a multilingual ski school with instructors who speak English or Chinese at Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain?
Yes, at Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain (formerly Alts Bandai & Nekoma Ski Resort), the resort operates a ski school providing skill-level-based lessons. As a highly international resort managed by Hoshino Resorts, foreign language support is robust, with a multilingual ski school available. Online pre-booking is recommended.
Are there beginner and family-focused areas at Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain?
Yes, at Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain (formerly Alts Bandai & Nekoma Ski Resort), it is highly recommended for families. The main base in the South Area features an extensive kids' park equipped with snow escalators where children can safely enjoy sledding and playing in the snow.
Is there a snow park at Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain?
At Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain (formerly Alts Bandai & Nekoma Ski Resort), it houses the world-class "Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Snow Park" which even hosts domestic tournaments. It features progressive park environments catering to riders from complete beginners to elite experts (Global Park).
Are there ski-in/ski-out hotels at Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain?
Yes, at Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain (formerly Alts Bandai & Nekoma Ski Resort), the "Hoshino Resorts Bandaisan Onsen Hotel" connects directly to the South Area base, providing excellent ski-in/ski-out accessibility. You can also enjoy hot springs and Aizu cultural experience programs.
When is the best time to visit Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain?
At Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain (formerly Alts Bandai & Nekoma Ski Resort), January to March is the best season. The South Area offers scenic long runs, while the North Area provides superb Micro Fine all natural snow. The North Area's favorable north-facing slopes ensure the snow stays good well into Golden Week.
Is there anything I should consider before planning a trip to Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain?
At Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain (formerly Alts Bandai & Nekoma Ski Resort), while the North and South areas are connected by a summit lift, it may be suspended during severe weather. Pre-booking lift tickets and rentals available online is strongly recommended to skip queues. Booking an inclusive accommodation plan with Hoshino Resorts offers great value.
Ski resort details
Features and details of Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain (formerly Alts Bandai & Nekoma Ski Resort)
Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain (formerly Alts Bandai & Nekoma Ski Resort) is one of Japan's largest ski areas, spanning both the northern and southern slopes of the mountain.
The South Area (formerly Alts Bandai) offers open runs with stunning views of Mt. Bandai and Lake Inawashiro.
The North Area (formerly Nekoma Ski Resort) boasts light, superb powder snow, a high elevation, and north-facing slopes, providing a long season of around five months into spring.
The diverse terrain across the north and south sides offers a variety of ways to enjoy skiing, and this season, the long-awaited tree run zone has opened, making the experience even more thrilling.
Middle/High school students: JPY 4,000 / Usage period: 12:00pm-3:30pm
Adult
AUD 50.66
Child
AUD 21.84
Senior
AUD 46.29
Remarks on lift tickets
Children: Ages 6-12 / Adults: Ages 19-59 / Seniors: Ages 60 and above (ID required) / Middle/High school students: Ages 13-18 (ID required) / Preschoolers: Free *A separate JPY 500 deposit for the IC card will be charged and refunded upon return.
Gloves, goggles, and hats are new and can be taken home.
Adult
AUD 104.81
Child
AUD 104.81
All-inclusive set: snowboard, boots, wear (jacket & pants), gloves, goggles, hat (additional charge per day from the second day onward)
Gloves, goggles, and hats are new and can be taken home.
Adult
AUD 83.85
Child
AUD 49.78
Snowboard set: snowboard, boots (4 hours)
Adult
AUD 42.80
Child
AUD 27.95
Snowboard set: snowboard, boots (1 day)
Adult
AUD 48.04
Child
AUD 30.57
Snowboard set: snowboard, boots (additional charge per day from the second day onward)
Adult
AUD 41.05
Child
AUD 27.08
Snowboard (4 hours)
80-164cm
Adult
AUD 30.57
Child
AUD 20.96
Snowboard (1 day)
80-164cm
Adult
AUD 34.06
Child
AUD 22.71
Snowboard (additional charge per day from the second day onward)
80-164cm
Adult
AUD 26.20
Child
AUD 19.21
Snowboard boots (4 hours)
15.5-31.5cm
Adult
AUD 23.58
Child
AUD 15.72
Snowboard boots (1 day)
15.5-31.5cm
Adult
AUD 26.20
Child
AUD 18.34
Snowboard boots (additional charge per day from the second day onward)
15.5-31.5cm
Adult
AUD 15.72
Child
AUD 11.35
Remarks on snowboard rentals
Children: Ages 0-12 / Adults: Ages 13 and above
Other rental items
Ski wear set: jacket & pants (4 hours)
90cm-4L
Adult
AUD 40.18
Child
AUD 26.20
Ski wear set: jacket & pants (1 day)
90cm-4L
Adult
AUD 43.67
Child
AUD 28.82
Ski wear set: jacket & pants (additional charge per day from the second day onward)
90cm-4L
Adult
AUD 36.68
Child
AUD 25.33
Ski wear single item: jacket or pants (4 hours)
90cm-4L
Adult
AUD 26.20
Child
AUD 15.72
Ski wear single item: jacket or pants (1 day)
90cm-4L
Adult
AUD 30.57
Child
AUD 20.96
Ski wear single item: jacket or pants (additional charge per day from the second day onward)
90cm-4L
Adult
AUD 25.33
Child
AUD 12.23
Snow boots (1 day)
15cm-27cm
Adult
AUD 10.48
Child
AUD 10.48
Snow boots (additional charge per day from the second day onward)
15cm-27cm
Adult
AUD 10.48
Child
AUD 10.48
Helmet (4 hours)
Adult
AUD 8.73
Child
AUD 8.73
Helmet (1 day)
Adult
AUD 10.48
Child
AUD 10.48
Helmet (additional charge per day from the second day onward)
Adult
AUD 7.86
Child
AUD 7.86
Sled (1 day)
Free exchanges for different types of sleds
Adult
AUD 9.61
Child
AUD 9.61
Strider (1 day)
For children only
Child
AUD 9.61
Snow tubing (Two sessions: Morning and Afternoon)
North Area only
Rental hours: 8:30am-12:00pm, 12:30pm-3:30pm (two sessions)
Adult
AUD 9.61
Child
AUD 9.61
Snowscoot (4 hours)
South Area only
Adult
AUD 30.57
Snowscoot (1 day)
South Area only
Adult
AUD 41.05
Snowscoot (additional charge per day from the second day onward)
South Area only
Adult
AUD 20.09
Set: Snowscoot & boots (4 hours)
South Area only
Adult
AUD 42.80
Set: Snowscoot & boots (1 day)
South Area only
Adult
AUD 48.04
Set: Snowscoot & boots (additional charge per day from the second day onward)
South Area only
Adult
AUD 41.05
[Note] short skis, carving skis, sleds, individual ski wear etc.
No data
Lessons
Ski lessons
Kids' Lesson: Ski Levels 1-3 (Japanese)
For ages 3 and above
105min
AUD 37.56~
Adult Lesson: Ski Levels 1-3 (Japanese)
For ages 13 (middle school students) and above
105min
AUD 37.56~
Private Ski Lesson (Japanese)
For ages 3 and above
105min
AUD 132.76~
Remarks on ski lessons
The displayed prices are for online reservations / Prices vary depending on the season and time. Please check the official website for details. / Gear rental (skis, boots, poles) is free during the lesson. If you wish to continue using the gear after the lesson, it is available for an additional JPY 3,000 for the entire day.
Snowboard lessons
Kids' Snowboard Lesson: Levels 1 & 2 (Japanese)
For ages 3 and above
105min
AUD 37.56~
Adult Snowboard Lesson: Levels 1 & 2 (Japanese)
For ages 13 (middle school students) and above
105min
AUD 37.56~
Private Snowboard Lesson (Japanese)
For ages 3 and above
105min
AUD 119.66~
Remarks on snowboard lessons
The displayed prices are for online reservations / Prices vary depending on the season and time. Please check the official website for details. / Gear rental (snowboard, boots) is free during the lesson. If you wish to continue using the gear after the lesson, it is available for an additional JPY 3,000 for the entire day.