Cupid Valley, one of the ski resorts operated by Smile Resort under Hospitality Operations Co., Ltd., opens for the 2025-2026 season on Saturday, December 27, 2025.
Renewed Second Quad Lift - Japan's Fastest at 5m/Second
Cupid Valley features 12 courses with a maximum run of 4,000m and is renowned for its exceptional snow quality. With abundant snowfall and high elevation, visitors can enjoy premium powder snow throughout the season. The second quad lift, which was closed last season for renovations, has been extended to 1,425m and reopens this winter. This renewal significantly improves overall convenience across the resort. The relocated boarding area provides much smoother access to the upper slopes, and the number of accessible courses has doubled from 4 to 8. Total skiing distance has also expanded dramatically from approximately 4,500m to 7,600m. Operating at Japan's fastest class speed of 5m per second, the new lift enhances circulation and delivers a comfortable skiing experience where guests can enjoy the slopes to their heart's content. With the addition of a new lift storage facility for improved safety, Cupid Valley welcomes everyone as a "new Cupid Valley."
Advanced Tree Run Area Returns with New Lift
With the renewal of the second quad lift, Cupid Valley brings back its long-awaited advanced tree run area this season. The extended new lift provides improved access to the upper slopes. This ungroomed deep powder area utilizing natural terrain offers new appeal to advanced skiers seeking exploratory runs.
Premium Snow Quality and Natural Hot Springs
Cupid Valley is a ski resort where visitors can fully enjoy the abundant snowfall and quality powder unique to heavy snow regions. The snow quality, considered among the best in Niigata Prefecture, helps skiers improve quickly. The adjacent Smile Kids Park features a snow escalator, and sleds and play equipment within the area are free to use, allowing families to enjoy snow play empty-handed. After a full day of skiing, visitors can relax at Yukidaruma Onsen Kubikino, a natural hot spring with flowing source water at the foot of Mount Hishigatake. The greenish natural hot spring gently soothes post-skiing fatigue, offering a refreshing experience for both body and mind.
This Season's Campaigns and Events
Opening Appreciation Days December 27 (Sat) to December 28 (Sun)
Operations begin at 10:00 AM on December 27 (Sat)
- Half-price 1-day lift tickets
Pork Soup Service December 28 (Sun)
Scheduled to start at 11:00 AM
Ski Day January 12 (Mon/Holiday)
- First 100 customers who purchase 1-day or 5-hour lift tickets receive a discount coupon for their next visit
Old Style Day February 15 (Sun)
- First 100 visitors in old-style ski gear receive a free 1-day lift ticket
Candle Road & Mountain Snow Festival February 28 (Sat)
- Fireworks, candles, food stalls, and more
Lerch's Ski School March 1 (Sun)
- Free 2-hour morning lesson for elementary school students trying skiing for the first time (first 10 participants)
S-1 Grand Prix March 15 (Sun)
- Sled championship to determine the fastest on the slopes (first 50 participants)
Lift Rates and Operating Period
Operating Period: December 27, 2025 (Sat) to March 22, 2026 (Sun)
Operating Hours: 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Operations begin at 10:00 AM on December 27 (Sat)
Night Skiing Period: January 2, 2026 (Fri) to February 22, 2026 (Sun)
Saturdays, days before holidays, and special days
Night Skiing Hours: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Lift Rates:
- 1-Day Ticket: Adults ¥5,600 / Junior & Senior High ¥4,200 / Elementary ¥3,200
- Night Ticket: ¥2,000
About Cupid Valley
Facility Name: Cupid Valley
Location: 4820 Sugawa, Yasuzuka-ku, Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture 942-0534
Phone: 025-593-2041
Access:
- By Car: Approx. 60km from Kanetsu Expressway Muikamachi IC / Approx. 33km from Hokuriku Expressway Kakizaki IC or Joetsu IC
- By Train: Approx. 20 minutes by taxi or shuttle bus from Hokuhoku Line Mushigawa-Osugi Station
Slopes: Summit 920m / Base 430m / Maximum Run 4,000m / 12 Courses / 3 Lifts
Course Levels: Beginner 35% / Intermediate 40% / Advanced 25%
Official Website: https://www.yukidaruma-kogen.com/winter.html
