Nagano is an inland city on the island of Honshu and features various terrains and landscapes, including mountains and farmlands. Though the city became famous for hosting the Winter Olympic Games in 1998, you don’t need to be a professional athlete to enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding here. The powder-like consistency of the snow is perfect for sliding down various slopes such as those in Hakuba Valley and Shiga Kogen. Between ski adventures, guests can relax and admire the scenery while on snowshoe hikes. If you’re preparing to visit for the 2024-2025 ski season, book your accommodation early as the properties (especially ski-in and ski-out) sell out quickly! For great spots to ski and convenient accommodations close to the slopes, scroll down for the best ski resorts in Nagano, Japan.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to ski slopes and equipment. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 29, 2025.
Top ski resorts
| Ski Resort | Skill Level Suitability | No. Of Lifts | Season Opening Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hakuba Happo-One | 30% beginner; 50% intermediate; 20% advanced | 22 | December 3, 2024 - May 6, 2025 |
| Hakuba 47 | 30% beginner; 40% intermediate; 30% advanced | 6 | December 6, 2024 - May 6, 2025 |
| Tsugaike Kogen Ski Resort | 50% beginner, 30% intermediate, 20% advanced | 18 | November 30, 2024 - To be announced |
| Nozawa Onsen | 40% beginner; 30% intermediate; 30% advanced | 22 | November 30, 2024 - May 6, 2025 |
| Shiga Kogen | 50% beginner; 30% intermediate; 12% advanced | 41 | November 30, 2024 - May 6, 2025 |
| Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort | 58% beginner; 21% intermediate; 21% advanced | 9 | November 1, 2024 - May 31, 2025 |
| Madarao Mountain Resort | 30% beginner; 35% intermediate; 35 % advanced | 10 | December 14, 2024 - March 30, 2025 |
| Togakushi Ski Resort | 25% beginner; 40% intermediate; 35% advanced | 7 | December 14, 2024 - April 31, 2025 |
1. Hakuba Valley
Hakuba Valley consists of many major ski areas, including Happo-One and Hakuba 47. Season opening dates and other slope information vary.
Resort information:
Happo-One:
- Season opening date: December 3, 2024 - May 6, 2025
- Nearest international airport: Haneda Airport (4-hour drive)
- Suitable for: 30% beginner; 50% intermediate; 20% advanced
- Lift details: 22 ski lifts
- Off-piste/backcountry: Yes (off-piste trails and backcountry access)
- Ski lessons: Available
- Ski equipment rental: Available
- Family-friendly: Yes
- Official website: Hakuba Happo-One
Hakuba 47:
- Season opening date: December 6, 2024 - May 6, 2025
- Nearest international airport: Haneda Airport (4-hour drive)
- Suitable for: 30% beginner; 40% intermediate; 30% advanced
- Lift details: 6 lifts
- Off-piste/backcountry: Yes (off-piste trails and backcountry access)
- Ski lessons: Available
- Ski equipment rental: Available
- Family-friendly: Yes
- Official website: Hakuba 47
Tsugaike Kogen Ski Resort:
- Season opening date: November 30, 2024 - To be announced
- Nearest international airport: Haneda Airport (4.3-hour drive)
- Suitable for: 50% beginner, 30% intermediate, 20% advanced
- Lift details: 18 lifts
- Off-piste/backcountry: Yes (off-piste and backcountry)
- Ski lessons: Available
- Ski equipment rental: Available
- Family-friendly: Yes
- Official website: Tsugaike Kogen Ski Resort
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
Hotel Abest Hakuba Resort
- Ski-in ski-out: Yes (Hakuba Goryu)
- Nearest lift: Toomi Sky Four Lift (100 meters (328.08 feet))
- Onsen: Yes
- Ski storage: Yes
Travelers who choose to stay here can take their pick from the Western- and Japanese-style rooms offered at the property. Regardless of the type of accommodations you choose, you will be able to enjoy ski-to-door access. This resort also has a ski school if you want to sign up for lessons. Meanwhile, more experienced skiers who have their own equipment can avail of the ski storage facility to keep their gear safe.
Aside from the ski slopes, families and groups are sure to also enjoy the bathing facilities. The sento is a nice way to wash up after hitting the slopes, while the onsen is perfect for soothing your muscles.
Hotel Abest Hakuba Resort
Address: Kamishiro 22199
31.26 km (19.5 mi) from Zenkō-ji
Mountain Side Hakuba (from USD 277)
- Ski-in ski-out: Yes (Happo-One)
- Nearest lift: Kokusai 1 (30 meters (98.43 feet))
- Onsen: No
- Ski storage: Yes
Beginners at skiing will want to book at this resort to have a wonderful winter holiday in Japan as this property has a ski school. Ski equipment is also available for rent on site. If you want to purchase your own equipment, there’s a ski and snowboard shop nearby. Meanwhile, guests who bring their own gear can store them at the resort at no additional cost.
The ski lifts of Hakuba Happo-One Snow Resort are also easily accessible from the property. The resort has an on-site restaurant should you get hungry.
Mountain Side Hakuba
Address: Hokujo 4313-1
31.88 km (19.9 mi) from Zenkō-ji
Fuku Chalet (from USD 637)
- Ski-in ski-out: Yes (Happo-One)
- Nearest lift: Happo-One lift and gondola (10-minute walk)
- Onsen: No (off-site only)
- Ski storage: No
Even when you’re inside Fuku Chalet, you’re never far from the slopes - you can comfortably enjoy a view of Happo-One from the windows! The hosts recommend bringing your own vehicle or a rental for convenience, but they also offer pick-up and drop-off services.
Hakuba, Nagano-ken, Japan
31.47 km (19.6 mi) from Zenkō-jiSuperhost
Accommodates: 5
2. Nozawa Onsen
Resort information:
- Season opening date: November 30, 2024 - May 6, 2025
- Nearest international airport: Haneda Airport (4-hour drive)
- Suitable for: 40% beginner; 30% intermediate; 30% advanced
- Lift details: 22 ski lifts
- Off-piste/backcountry: Yes (off-piste trails and backcountry access)
- Ski lessons: Available
- Ski equipment rental: Available
- Family-friendly: Yes
- Official website: Nozawa Onsen
Yoji Nozawa House (from USD 4279)
- Ski-in ski-out: No
- Distance to ski area: Approximately 900 meters (2952.76 feet) to Nozawa Onsen
- Nearest lift: Shinyu Pair Lift (90 meters (295.28 feet))
- Onsen: No
- Ski storage: Not specified
Make your group ski trip more comfortable by booking your stay at Yoji Nozawa, only steps away from the Shinyu Pair Lift at Nozawa Onsen. With four bedrooms, you’ll have plenty of room to stretch out and sleep comfortably at the end of a long day on the slopes. Other convenient features include a big kitchen, two living rooms, and a drying room.
Nozawaonsen, Nagano-ken, Japan
37.32 km (23.2 mi) from Zenkō-jiAccommodates: 10
Kaiya Nozawa Lodge (from USD 550)
- Ski-in ski-out: No
- Distance to ski area: 50 meters (164.04 feet)
- Nearest lift: Not specified
- Onsen: No (off-site only)
- Ski storage: Not specified
Hosted by Mark and Yoshiko, Kaiya Nozawa Lodge is a popular choice for foreigners looking to ski at Nozawa Onsen - a bilingual staff will even be there to greet you upon arrival! Other handy services include hiring your ski equipment and arranging transportation if you need assistance. The nearest onsen is 100 meters (328.08 feet) away, so after you enjoy a nice long soak, you can easily walk back to the comfort of your tatami-style room.
Shimotakai County, Japan, Japan
36.81 km (22.9 mi) from Zenkō-jiAccommodates: 2
Casa38 (from USD 4770)
- Ski-in ski-out: Yes (Nozawa Onsen)
- Nearest lift: Karasawa lift station (6-minute walk)
- Onsen: No (off-site only)
- Ski storage: Yes
Casa38 is great for large groups or big families planning a ski holiday. This home can comfortably sleep seven in two tatami-style rooms and one bedroom with a sofa bed and two single beds. Ski storage is available so you can ensure your gear gets dry and ready for another day on the slopes.
Nozawaonsen, Nagano, Japan
36.51 km (22.7 mi) from Zenkō-jiAccommodates: 7
Hotel Andermatt (from USD 151)
- Ski-in ski-out: Yes (Echo Valley ski area)
- Nearest lift: Echo Valley Triple Ski Lift 1 (250 meters (820.21 feet))
- Onsen: Yes
- Ski storage: Yes
Skiing enthusiasts will not find anything wanting when they stay on this property as it has ski-to-door access. The lift to Echo Valley ski area is a short walk away from the hotel. There’s a ski pass vendor here so you can streamline your holiday. If you don’t know how to ski but want to learn, fear not, because the property has a ski school. Ski equipment can be rented here as well.
Be sure to end your day with a scrub and wash in the sento then sliding in the onsen for a warm, rejuvenating soak.
Hotel Andermatt
Address: Daimon 3518-2546
60.31 km (37.5 mi) from Zenkō-ji
3. Shiga Kogen
Shiga Kogen encompasses multiple ski areas, including Okushigakogen, Yakebitaiyama, Kumanoyu, and more.
Resort information:
- Season opening date: November 30, 2024 - May 6, 2025
- Nearest international airport: Haneda Airport (4-hour drive)
- Suitable for: 50% beginner; 30% intermediate; 12% advanced
- Lift details: 41 ski lifts, 6 gondolas
- Off-piste/backcountry: Yes (off-piste trails and backcountry packages)
- Ski lessons: Available
- Ski equipment rental: Available
- Family-friendly: Yes
- Official website: Shiga Kogen
Five Peaks Jigokudani (from USD 630)
- Ski-in ski-out: No
- Distance to ski area: 20-minute drive to Shiga Kogen
- Nearest lift: Not specified
- Onsen: No (off-site only)
- Ski storage: No
If you and your buddies are skiing in Shiga Kogen this winter season, this might be the place for you, especially if you want some distance from the foot traffic at the resort. There are six bedrooms in total, some being tatami-style. Shiga Kogen is within easy driving distance, and there’s plenty of parking on-site for your vehicle.
Yamanouchi, Nagano, Japan
23.99 km (15.0 mi) from Zenkō-jiAccommodates: 10
Top guest reviews
Host:
daniel was very responsivehost was extremely friendly and responsive to questionshosts are kind and responsive to any questions and troubles i haddaniel is extremely responsive almost always answers questions within an hourdaniel is a great host with plenty of recommendations for local activities and restaurantsLocation:
a great location for visiting the snow monkeys and shiga kogen areawill definitely repeat this place when we come to this area againgreat host close to monkey park freeway entrance and great restaurantsvery well equipped and csozy placea wonderful place for our family to stayCleanliness:
the house is fully equipped and cleanRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
all the rooms were cleaned well and the wood deck was amazing
Shigakogen Prince Hotel (from USD 161)
- Ski-in ski-out: Yes (Shiga Kogen Yakebitaiyama ski area)
- Nearest lift: Ichinose Yamanokami 2 (150 meters (492.13 feet))
- Onsen: Yes
- Ski storage: Yes
By offering ski-in ski-out access, guests can easily jump onto the slopes at almost any time. The closest ski lift is just a 2-minute walk from the lobby, ensuring you won’t need to lug your equipment far either. Newbies trying out skiing for the first time can join the First Track session for 2000 JPY (12.78 USD), or book private night sessions for 100,000 JPY (638.94 USD).
When you’re done for the day, safely stow your gear in the storage amenities, then relax and soothe your scrapes and bruises with a long soak in the open air onsen. There’s also a souvenir shop where you can grab extra cold-weather gear as well as gifts.
Shigakogen Prince Hotel This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: Shigakogen Yakebitai
30.77 km (19.2 mi) from Zenkō-ji
Hotel Grand Phenix Okushiga (from USD 394)
- Ski-in ski-out: Yes (Okushiga Kogen ski area)
- Nearest lift: Okushigakogen High-speed Pair 2 (50 meters (164.04 feet))
- Onsen: Yes
- Ski storage: Yes
This establishment offers ski-in/ski-out access and is situated near the ski lifts of Shiga Kogen Ski Resort. The property offers ski equipment for rent and also offers skiing lessons for those who want to pick up the sport.
Once you’re done hitting the slopes, you can stash your gear at the ski storage facility. Feel free to take a dip in the open air spa or indoor sento to relax after spending the day in the snow. Shopaholics, meanwhile, should check out the sports outlet store on the property.
Hotel Grand Phenix Okushiga
Address: Okushiga Kogen
33.19 km (20.7 mi) from Zenkō-ji
4. Karuizawa Prince Snow Resorts
Resort information:
- Season opening date: November 1, 2024 - May 31, 2025
- Nearest international airport: Haneda Airport (2.5-hour drive)
- Suitable for: 58% beginner; 21% intermediate; 21% advanced
- Lift details: 9 lifts
- Off-piste/backcountry: No
- Ski lessons: Available
- Ski equipment rental: Available
- Family-friendly: Yes
- Official website: Karuizawa Prince Snow Resorts
Karuizawa Prince Hotel West (from USD 258)
A variety of dining options, including a good pizza, and close proximity to restaurants.
Reasonable pricing for spacious rooms and serene location.
Conveniently located near premium outlet and train station, surrounded by nature.
Large onsen, family-friendly facilities, shuttle services, and in-house convenience store.
- Ski-in ski-out: Yes (Karuizawa Prince Snow Resort)
- Nearest lift: Usagiyama Lift (300 meters (984.25 feet))
- Onsen: Yes
- Ski storage: Yes
As part of the expansive Prince Karuizawa mountain resort complex, this hotel welcomes guests for a fun winter getaway on the ski slopes of Mount Yagasaki. Watch as the snow falls on the mountain, then grab your gear from the storage and ride the lift for a day of skiing. If you’re a novice, you can book a lesson or two for the necessary skills and boost of confidence. They also offer ski rentals if you’re interested but don’t have the necessary equipment.
Once you’re done for the day, head over to the signature Momiji Hot Spring for a soothing bath that’s sure to warm you up.
Karuizawa Prince Hotel West
Address: Karuizawa 1016-87
53.83 km (33.5 mi) from Zenkō-ji
Three-bedroom home in Karuizawa (from USD 868)
- Ski-in ski-out: No
- Distance to ski area: 4 kilometers (2.49 miles) to Karuizawa Prince Ski Resort
- Nearest lift: Not specified
- Onsen: No
- Ski storage: No
This spacious and sleek three-bedroom home is equipped with floor heating and an indoor fireplace so you’re sure to be nice and cozy even in the dead of winter. For those planning a longer ski trip, laundry facilities and a fully equipped kitchen are also available. Karuizawa Prince Ski Resort is a 15-minute drive away, so you can bring your vehicle or rent one for easier access to slopes. The home offers free parking for your convenience.
Karuizawa, Nagano-ken, Japan
51.56 km (32.1 mi) from Zenkō-jiAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Host:
the host was wonderfulakira is one of the best hosts we've ever encounteredhe is a fabulous host that take extremely good and thoughtful care of ushowever he proves himself to be better than a super host his place is beautifully decoratedakira-san was an amazing host during our stay in karuizawaLocation:
the place itself is beautiful well appointed and in a perfect location between karuizawa and naka-karuizawaRead more reviewsCleanliness:
it’s a very quiet and clean housethe house is great spacious clean and everything in good conditionsthe house is sparkling clean fully equipped and exceeded our expectation
5. Madarao Mountain Resort
Resort information:
- Season opening date: December 14, 2024 - March 30, 2025
- Nearest international airport: Haneda International Airport (3.7-hour drive)
- Suitable for: 30% beginner; 35% intermediate; 35% advanced
- Lift details: 10 lifts
- Off-piste/backcountry: Yes (backcountry with local guide)
- Ski lessons: Available
- Ski equipment rental: Available
- Family-friendly: Yes
- Official website: Madarao Mountain Resort
Mimo's Cottage (from USD 281)
- Ski-in ski-out: Yes (Tangram Ski Circus)
- Nearest lift: 6th lift Tangram Ski Circus (5-minute walk)
- Onsen: No
- Ski storage: No
Formerly a ceramics workshop, Mimo’s Cottage has been transformed into a warm home where you can find respite after a long day of being strapped to your skis. There are three bedrooms available, two with single beds and one tatami room with a floor mattress. The rooms are spacious, too, so you can stretch out comfortably.
Tangram Ski Circus, part of Madarao Kogen Ski Area, is within walking distance, so you can be out the door and zipping down the mountain within minutes!
Shinano, Nagano, Japan
21.69 km (13.5 mi) from Zenkō-jiAccommodates: 7
Cozy private lodge room (from USD 312)
- Ski-in ski-out: Yes (Madarao/Tangram Ski Resort)
- Nearest lift: Not specified
- Onsen: No
- Ski storage: Yes
While this may be a private room instead of an entire lodge, you can’t pass up on the convenient offerings. The couple who run this accommodation can provide private ski and snowboarding lessons and also serve as backcountry guides for your ski adventures! Common areas feature a massage chair, a drying room for ski clothes and gear, and a playroom with games and books.
Nagano, Japan
23.83 km (14.9 mi) from Zenkō-jiAccommodates: 2
6. Togakushi Ski Resort
Resort information:
- Season opening date: December 14, 2024 - April 31, 2025
- Nearest international airport: Haneda Airport (4-hour drive)
- Suitable for: 25% beginner; 40% intermediate; 35% advanced
- Lift details: 7 lifts
- Off-piste/backcountry: No
- Ski lessons: Available
- Ski equipment rental: Available
- Family-friendly: Yes
- Official website: Togakushi Ski Resort
Ski chalet ideal for families (from USD 289)
- Ski-in ski-out: No
- Distance to ski area: 15-minute drive to Togakushi Ski Area
- Nearest lift: Not specified
- Onsen: No
- Ski storage: No
This spacious ski chalet can sleep six guests in two bedrooms (one queen bedroom and another with two bunk beds), making it ideal for families. Toiletries and other handy amenities are included. Many ski resorts are in the vicinity, including Togakushi (15 minutes) and Iizuna (10 minutes).
Nagano, Japan
6.73 km (4.2 mi) from Zenkō-jiAccommodates: 6
Have a snowy adventure in Nagano
Nagano may have hosted the Winter Olympics, but you don’t need to be a professional athlete to enjoy the snow-centered activities. Plan a ski trip to any of these incredible ski resorts and book your hotel or vacation rental for the ultimate winter holiday!
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