How to choose a ski equipment rental store in Echigo Yuzawa? Learn about Chinese service, discount tickets, and direct rental from the ski resort!
First time skiing in Echigo Yuzawa, not sure where to rent ski gear? This article will help you sort out the equipment rental shops in Echigo Yuzawa, categorized by needs (Chinese service, cheap price, direct rental at the ski resort, whether there are discount tickets, etc.), so you can understand how to choose Yuzawa rental!
1. Rental stores with Chinese services (suitable for beginners and Chinese communication needs)
advantage ❤️: Can communicate in Chinese, some have shortcomings in pick-up and drop-off services ⚠️: Prices are usually higher and you may have to queue during popular hours
Qingda Rental Store - The oldest Chinese store, located on the hot spring street - Provides ski equipment rental and pick-up service - Suitable for those staying in the hot spring street
Snowduck
- Cantonese and Mandarin services available - Step On binding system available (suitable for advanced snowboarders)
- Located at the East Exit of Yuzawa Station
Snow Goods Selection (managed by iski)
- A Chinese service rental shop that is only available at Ishiuchi Maruyama - It is limited to use at Ishiuchi Maruyama and is only suitable for those who plan to go to Ishiuchi Maruyama
- Located on the hot spring street
Sakura Snow Gear (Ski addict)
- The location is very close to the station: just to the left of the west exit of Yuzawa Station
Snow Rental
- Affordable price, suitable for budget travelers- Located at the foot of Iwhara Ski Resort
2. Other popular stores (usually with more favorable prices and discounted tickets)
advantage ❤️: Reasonable price, often with discounts on ski tickets ⚠️: Most of them are run by Japanese, no Chinese or English services, protective gear rental may not be provided
Boo Sport
- Popular Japanese rental shop, providing Burton equipment - There are two branches (hot spring street, Kagura entrance)
- You can buy discount tickets for multiple ski resorts, which is a great value for money
Angel Grandia Rental Shop - A rental shop attached to the hotel with affordable prices - The first choice for skiers staying at Angel Grandia Hotel
Benri Ski Rentals
- Far from the station, but the rental price is cheap - Suitable for travelers who want to drive or stay nearby
3. Rent at the ski resort (most convenient but slightly more expensive)
advantage ❤️: The equipment is new, no need to carry, and you can return the defect directly after sliding ⚠️: Snow goggles, gloves, and protective gear need to be purchased separately, and the price is relatively high
GALA Yuzawa → Fisher exclusive equipment rental shop, snowboards of excellent quality
Iwahara/Joetsu International → Operated by Salomon, if you like Salomon equipment, you can try it
Maiko Ski Resort → Free replacement of snowboards during rental period
Ishiuchi Maruyama
→ Rent famous brands such as Burton, Rossignol, etc.
4. Rental of B&B/Hotel Facilities
advantage ❤️: You can rent without leaving home, which is convenient for guests. Disadvantages ⚠️: Most of the equipment is old, not suitable for advanced players
Many homestays and hot spring hotels offer simple equipment rentals, which is a good choice for travelers who only plan to ski for one day or want convenience.
📌 Aodoulang small reminder:
If this is your first time skiing and you are worried about language communication, you can give priority to Chinese rental shops; if you are a veteran who wants to save money and can speak a little Japanese or English, other popular shops or direct rentals from the ski resort are also good options.
The equipment level, hygiene and maintenance conditions of different rental shops may vary greatly. It is recommended to make reservations for rental in advance during peak seasons (especially at the end of the year and the Spring Festival) to avoid waiting on site. If you need to rent snow goggles, gloves, and protective gear, it is recommended to ask in advance whether they are provided.
In addition, only some of the more popular rental stores are listed above. There are many rental stores that are not listed yet. Travelers who need them can check it out by themselves. There are also detailed service contents of each store, please consult each store~
