Budoh gets more snow than the other ski areas in Kaetsu (north Niigata), so when the other areas might be struggling to open (like Mikawa), Budoh is likely to be up and running. Budoh also faces away from the prevailing winter winds, so when Wakabuna (and maybe the others) are blown out, you can enjoy calm conditions. The food in the dining room is good and inexpensive. They have a Japanese-pickles all-you-can-eat bar of homemade tsukemono (Japanese pickles)
This is a great place to come to if you are in the Niigata area or west coast area of Yamagata. On weekdays, you might have the whole place to yourself. There are no "play areas" with jumps etc. for boarders or trick skiers, but for the intermediate skier, it's got plenty to keep you amused. It's on the backside of the mountains that face the Japan Sea, so when Mikawa, Ninox, Tainai and Wakabuna (other Kaetsu areas) are blown
Not very big, but long enough courses to keep strong intermediates and advanced skiers happy for a half day. Not a place for the real beginners. Friendly staff, but very few amenities.
If you happen to be in the area, definately a place to swing in and try