Gransnow Okuibuki
Kansai's Largest Ski Resort
About This Resort
Gransnow Okuibuki is a ski resort in Maibara, Shiga Prefecture, Japan.
The mountain has 14 runs and 9 lifts. It drops 550 metres from top to base, and the longest run measures 2.5 km.
That makes Gransnow Okuibuki the largest of the 5 ski areas in Shiga Prefecture with a published run count.
The resort has a terrain park. It is known for its powder. Snowmaking covers the base runs when natural cover is thin.
This far south the season is short, roughly late December to early March.
Location
Prefecture: Shiga
Address: Maibara, Shiga, Japan
Postal Code: 521-0301
Spoken Languages: Japanese
Season Information
Season: November 13, 2026 - April 11, 2027
Closed for Season
Note: Season dates are predictions and may change. Early and late season (November/December and April/May) may have limited snow coverage. Please check current conditions before planning your trip.
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Sign InFrequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Gransnow Okuibuki from Kyoto or Osaka?
About 90 minutes by car from Kyoto, Osaka, or Nagoya via Meishin Expressway (Maibara IC). By train, Shinkansen to Maibara Station then taxi or shuttle (40 min). Resort runs shuttle buses on peak days.
Why is Okuibuki called 'Kansai's largest'?
14 courses across 9 lifts, including Japan's fastest high-speed lift. More vertical drop and variety than other Kansai resorts. Natural powder snow from the Japan Sea side. Many visitors come from Kyoto, Osaka, and Nagoya.
Is Okuibuki family-friendly?
Very. One of Japan's largest kids parks with snow play areas. Beginner courses are well-groomed. Modern center house with restaurants and facilities. Lessons available for children. Free parking on weekdays.
How much does a Gransnow Okuibuki lift ticket cost?
Adult one-day passes are roughly ¥6,000–7,000 in peak season, with cheaper half-day, afternoon and early/late-season rates. Weekday parking is free; weekends and holidays carry a parking fee. Children, students and seniors get standard discounts. Online advance tickets are often a few hundred yen cheaper than at the window.
When does Okuibuki's ski season run?
Late November to mid-April most years. Okuibuki is one of the earliest-opening resorts in Western Japan thanks to its high snowfall and snowmaking. The peak season (best snow, full lift count) is January and February. Spring skiing into early April is normally only on the upper runs, as the lower slopes soften. Check the website for current opening dates each year.
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