Yokokura Ski Center is attached to the Zao Ropeway station. In addition to serving as a one-stop shop for ski and snowboard rentals, Yokokura also runs the service counter for Zao Utopia Ski School. The shop offers half-day, one-day and two-day rentals of equipment. Depending on your needs, you can rent just a board or skis/poles or a full kit, which includes snow pants and a jacket. Please note that you won’t be able to rent gloves, hats, helmets or goggles here, although they are available to purchase.

Visitors hoping to learn how to ski or snowboard for the first time can also sign up for a ski or snowboard lesson here. Group lessons and private lessons are available in both half-day and full-day formats. If you’ll need an English-speaking instructor, it’s probably best to make a reservation well in advance.