Cupid Valley is a ski area located in the Yasuzuka neighbourhood of Joetsu City in Niigata Prefecture.
It is on the northern slopes of Mt Higashitake, about halfway between the central city areas of Joetsu and Tokamachi. It is also around halfway between the popular Myoko and Yuzawa and Minamiuonuma regions. The area is known as Yukidaruma Kogen (loose translation as 'Snowman Highland'). The Japan Sea can be seen from the north-facing slopes on a clear day, with layers of rice fields in the foreground.
There are two quad lifts (1,600m and 1,000m) and one pair lift (500m) at Cupid Valley. The Number 2 quad lift will be extended by 600m in time for the 2025-2026 winter season (see the dotted line on the course map below to see the planned extension). That lift will be closed for the entire 2024-2025 season in preparation of the new lift. In the meantime, various CAT Tours are scheduled in that section of the mountain this season.
Note that ski area statistics (below) represent the temporary status for the 2024-2025 season, taking into account the closed Number 2 lift. Details will change again in 2025.
This ski area is one of two operating within Joetsu City. The other is the small but historic Kanayasan.
Cupid Valley opened in 1990.
Between early January and early March 2025, various CAT tours are scheduled in sections of the ski area beyond the lifts that are operating this season.
The schedule is for tours is every Saturday, with special tours for 'inbound' visitors on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
The Smile Kids Park is located by the Number 1 quad lift. Entry is 500 yen or free with a valid ski lift ticket on weekends.
Plastic skis, sledges, buckets are available to rent.
Ski and snowboard lessons are available at Cupid Valley.
Ski and snowboard equipment rental is available.
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Cupid Valley is normally open during the daytime from 8:30am until 4:30pm.
Night skiing is 4:30pm until 8:00pm on Fridays, Saturdays and nights before holidays in January, February and March 2025. (Exception: 22nd February 2025).
OFFICIAL WEBSITE
Sugawa
Yasuzuka-ku
Joetsu-shi
Niigata-ken
942-0534