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Resort Comparison

Appi Kogen vs Lotte Arai Resort

Appi Kogen excels for families prioritizing beginner terrain and walkability. Appi Kogen offers better value, while Lotte Arai Resort caters to those seeking a premium experience.

The Verdict

Appi Kogen leads with 3 wins
Best for Families
Appi Kogen

Ski school from age 3

Best Snowfall
Lotte Arai Resort

235.5" average season

Best Terrain
Lotte Arai Resort

3,117' of vertical

Best Value
Appi Kogen

$60 day pass

Easiest Access
Appi Kogen

Most accessible

Best Village Vibe
Lotte Arai Resort

World-class village experience

Appi Kogen
Iwate, Japan
$$Independent
Lotte Arai Resort
Niigata, Japan
$$$Independent

Family

Ski School Age
3+
3+
Full-Day Program
Beginner Terrain
8.5
7.5
Walkability
9.0
9.0
Village Vibe
8.5
9.0

Mountain

Vertical
2,789'
3,117'
Skiable Area
620 ac
560 ac
Green Runs
30%
15%
Trails
21
14
Lifts
18
5

Getting There

Airport
HNA
NRT
Drive Time
1.5h
4h
Road Ease
7.5
6.5

Cost

Passes
Independent
Independent
Day Pass
$60
$70
Cost Tier
Moderate
Premium

Village

Dining
Good
Excellent
Grocery
Spa
Pool
Add a third resort to compare

Snowfall Comparison

Live conditions

Appi Kogen

106.6"

avg season

2024-25 season

100.8" total

95%

Lotte Arai Resort

235.5"

avg season

2024-25 season

273.3" total

116%

Season Accumulation (10-Year Average)

OctNovDecJanFebMarApr
236"118"0"
Appi Kogen
Lotte Arai Resort

Key Insights

Appi Kogen excels for families prioritizing beginner terrain and walkability. Appi Kogen offers better value, while Lotte Arai Resort caters to those seeking a premium experience.

Key Differences

  • Appi Kogen's beginner terrain score (8.5) exceeds Lotte Arai Resort's (7.5), making it better for families prioritizing beginner runs
  • Appi Kogen is moderately priced while Lotte Arai Resort falls in the premium category
  • Appi Kogen has more beginner/intermediate terrain (75% green and blue), while Lotte Arai Resort skews more advanced (40% black and double black)

Best For

Appi Kogen

  • Parents with young children (ski school from age 3)
  • Budget-conscious families
  • Parents wanting full-day ski school programs

Lotte Arai Resort

  • Parents with young children (ski school from age 3)
  • Parents wanting full-day ski school programs

More Comparisons

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Explore More

Regions

Colorado
Utah
British Columbia

Best For

Best for Beginners
Most Walkable
Best for Toddlers

Guides

First Family Ski Trip Guide
Best Time to Go Skiing