Japan’s world-class skiing landscapes and iconic powder snow make it a magical winter wonderland! The country’s perfectly dry and deep powder snow is often referred to as “JaPow,” short for “Japan Powder,” which is a major draw for many skiers worldwide. The arctic wind from Siberia that blows over the Sea of Japan builds up moisture and forms piles of white snow deposited on Japan’s coveted slopes and islands. Although the snow can be waist-deep, it is exceptionally light, containing only around 8% moisture. More than 500 ski resorts are spread across the country, ranging from colossal ski areas with sundry trails to smaller resorts in hot spring towns with one-lift slopes.
In this article, we will walk you through some of the best ski destinations and everything you need to know about skiing in Japan. This will also include shared skiing experiences from an exclusive interview with Trip101 CEO, Kei Shibata. Keep reading to learn about skiing in Japan!
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 14, 2024.
Winter wonderlands in Japan
Hokkaido region
1. Get a taste of the champagne powder in Niseko
Niseko is argued to be the best and most popular ski destination in Japan. It comprises four interlinked ski resorts for you to explore. Grand Hirafu is the largest, with more than a dozen lifts and a vast town area around its main base. The other ski resorts are Hanazono, Niseko Village, and An’nupuri. The Niseko All Mountain Pass grants full access to these four zones and also includes an area shuttle for hassle-free transfers.
This ski area is suitable for English-speaking visitors, thanks to its accessibility and hospitable instructors. Besides ski runs, the resort boasts spectacular backcountry terrains that can be experienced through guided and helicopter tours.
How to get there: From the New Chitose airport, ride the train to Kuchan Station, where you can find shuttles to most hotels. A complimentary shuttle service for Niseko All Mountain Pass holders operates around Hirafu, Niseko Village, and Annupuri resorts.
Find below some of our top recommendations to stay when in Niseko for skiing.
Niseko
Address: Niseko, Hokkaido, Japan
Website: Niseko
Opening months: December to April
Price: From 6700 JPY (47.87 USD) (Niseko All Mountain Pass); from 4500 JPY (32.15 USD) (ski rental); from 9000 JPY (64.30 USD) (ski lessons for 2 hours); from 10000 JPY (71.45 USD) (transfers)
AYA Niseko
Address: 1-4-4-5 Niseko Hirafu
505.92 km (314.4 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the property is well maintain and cleanHost:
the stuffs are also helpfulall staffs are very helpful and friendlywe all love this place friendly staff great place very clean and neatRead more reviewsLocation:
very nice location as welli do like this hotel in terms of location and property condition
Hotel Resort Inn Niseko
Address: Satomi 151-2
497.72 km (309.3 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
2. Escape the crowds in Rusutsu
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Situated close to Niseko, this expansive ski resort is a perfect destination for skiers who want to escape the bustling crowds of holidaymakers in the world-famous Niseko without compromising the beauty of the surroundings.
Rusutsu covers three mountains and is blessed with heavy snowfall. This ski resort hosts 4 main hotels, 37 runs, and 19 lifts, as well as small pensions in the nearby town center. It also offers well-groomed trails, off-piste sites, tree-lined ravines, and powder bowl access.
How to get there: The drive takes about 90 minutes whether you are coming from New Chitose Airport or Sapporo. Free shuttle buses and multiple bus companies operate back and forth between both Sapporo and the airport and the resort.
Find our recommendations below on where to stay in Rusutsu if you’re on a skiing trip.
Rusutsu
Address: 13 Izumikawa, Rusutsu-mura, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido, Japan
Website: Rusutsu
Opening months: Late November to early April
Price: From 11500 JPY (82.16 USD) (all-access ski-lift pass); from 9000 JPY (64.30 USD (transfers); from 6200 JPY (44.30 USD) (ski rental)
Rusutsu Pension Clydesdale
Address: Izumikawa 55-15
495.56 km (308.0 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
WaPura Rusutsu
Address: 159-104, Izumikawa
495.27 km (307.8 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
Kalamunda House Rusutsu
Address: 35-111 Izumikawa
495.42 km (307.9 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
3. Immerse in cultural experiences at Furano Ski Resort
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you are looking for a traditional spot to immerse yourself in cultural experiences, Furano Ski Resort is the way to go! Compared to other ski resorts that are highly contemporized and foreign-catering, this place aims to provide more authentic local experiences. You can even try delicious local cuisine at the Japanese restaurants in Furano town.
This world-class ski area comprises two interconnected zones with 23 long and fast runs that qualify for the World Cup. The ski resort is also adjoined with a Family Snowland where you can enjoy snow rafting and snowmobiling.
How to get there: Once you arrive at New Chitose Airport, take a train to JR Sapporo Station going to Furano. Then, hail a cab to take you to Furrano Ski Resort. Asahikawa Airport is also less than an hour away, and Sapporo buses stop at the ski area’s base and Furano Station.
Check out our picks on accommodations for your ski trip to Furano.
Furano Ski Resort
Address: Nakagoryo, Furano, Hokkaido, Japan
Website: Furano Ski Resort
Opening months: Later November to early May
Price: From 5300 JPY (37.87 USD) (All Mountain lift pass); from 9000 JPY (64.30 USD) (transfers); from 5800 JPY (41.44 USD) (ski rental); from 6000 JPY (42.87 USD) (ski lessons for 2 hours)
Furano Prince Hotel / Snow Resorts
Address: 18-6 Kitanominecho, Furano, Furano, Japan, 076-0034
581.94 km (361.6 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
Parkside Chalet Furano
Address: 北の峰町21-32 Parkside Chalet Furano
582.48 km (362.0 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
Honshu island
Nagano Prefecture
1. Glide like an Olympian in Hakuba Valley
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Hakuba Valley earned worldwide recognition for being host to many events during the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics. Most facilities and infrastructure used during the Olympics remain operational and available to all visitors, including Hakuba Ski Jumping Stadium featuring an exciting ski jumping hill.
Perched atop the Japanese Alps, this expansive valley makes a stunning destination for sightseeing and provides a healing experience with the hot springs in the town. It boasts multiple ski resorts, and you can choose from combination tickets to visit as many of them as you please. Happoone is the largest and arguably the most popular resort in Hakuba, featuring 20 lifts.
How to get there: Hakuba is accessible via Shinkansen and bus from Tokyo. Take the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano, and then hop on an express bus from Nagano to reach Hakuba and directly access multiple ski resorts.
Don’t forget to browse through the ski resorts listed below for stay options in Hakuba Valley.
Hakuba Valley
Address: 5723 Hokujo, Hakuba, Kitaazumi, Nagano, Japan
Website: Hakuba Valley
Price: From 7600 JPY (54.30 USD) (multi-resort lift pass); from 19100 JPY (136.46 USD) (shared transfers); from 4500 JPY (32.15 USD) (ski rental); from 7000 (ski lessons for 2 hours)
Happo One Holiday House
Address: 3966-1 Hokujo, Hakuba-Mura Kitaazumi-Gun,
290.64 km (180.6 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
Hotel Goryukan
Address: Hokujo 3353
290.63 km (180.6 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
Canopy Lodge - Boutique Lodge at Hakuba Cortina
Address: Chikuni 12860-4
282.36 km (175.5 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
2. Spend at least two days in Shiga Kogen
Japan’s most extensive combined ski area, Shiga Kogen comprises 18 ski resorts and soars at 4396.33 feet (1340 meters) to 7568.90 feet (2307 meters). A single lift ticket can be used to access the whole area, including all 48 lifts, gondolas, and ropeways. Alongside Hakuba Valley, this ski destination was also a venue for several events during the 1998 Winter Olympics.
Moreover, Shiga Kogen has a long ski season, usually from mid-November until the end of May. You will need at least two days to cover the entire ski area. Do remember to avail yourself of the free shuttle bus to travel across the different resorts.
How to get there: From Tokyo, Shiga Kogen is directly accessible by Shinkansen and bus. From Yudanaka Station, all bus routes include a stop at the Shiga Kogen Yamanoeki bus stop.
If you’re looking for suitable accommodation, find below our picks for ski resorts in Shiga Kogen.
Shiga Kogen
Address: Yamanouchi, Nagano, Japan
Website: Shiga Kogen
Opening months: Mid November to late May
Price: From 4,600 JPY (32.87 USD) (ski-lift pass); from 13,900 JPY (99.31 USD) (transfers)
Aspen Shiga
Address: Hirao 7148-8
246.07 km (152.9 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
Villa Alpen
Address: Hirao 7148
247.35 km (153.7 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
3. Indulge in some laid-back skiing in Nozawa Onsen
Nozawa Onsen was formerly a hot spring town before it was converted into a ski resort, so you can expect a plethora of onsens, with over a dozen free ones for you to soak in. You can also find budget hotels and traditional inns here.
It is one of the oldest ski destinations in Japan, dating all the way back to the eighth century, but it is far from being outdated. This ski area boasts 18 high-speed lifts, 3 gondolas, and long, fast runs, with terrains for skiers of all difficulty levels.
This old hot spring village is steeped in traditional Japanese charm, but it welcomes foreign visitors at the same time. It is much smaller and less crowded than other renowned ski resorts in Japan, allowing you to enjoy a more laid-back experience.
How to get there: You can ride a Shinkansen to Iiyama Station from Tokyo. Upon alighting, you can board a shuttle bus bound for Nozawa Onsen.
Scroll down for ski resort options in Nozawa Onsen!
Nozawa Onsen
Address: 7653 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano, Japan
Website: Nozawa Onsen
Opening months: Late November to early May
Price: From 3800 JPY (27.15 USD) (ski-lift pass); from 10900 JPY (77.88 USD) (transfers); from 4500 JPY (32.15 USD) (ski rental); from 24,000 JPY (171.47 USD) (ski lessons for 2 hours)
Lodge Nakajima
Address: Toyosato 7797-4
233.47 km (145.1 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
Kawahiro
Address: Ooaza Toyosato 7819
233.36 km (145.1 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
Niigata Prefecture
1. Enjoy skiing close to Tokyo in Yuzawa Onsen
Great value for the price, with discounted tickets and convenient shuttle service.
Oversized indoor hot springs, open-air baths, and spacious rooms popular among loyal customers.
Conveniently located within a 10-minute walk from the train station, near ski gondola and botanical garden.
Excellent dinner and breakfast offerings, though some guests desired more variety and temperature consistency.
Yuzawa Onsen is one of the most easily accessible ski areas from Tokyo, allowing you to immediately embark on your skiing adventures less than two hours from the capital. This family-friendly ski destination features 20 ski resorts for all ages and experience levels. There are also 22 ski runs. If you’re looking for an extra thrill, choose the one with a vertical drop of almost 0.5 miles (0.80 kilometers).
You will find many ski-in and ski-out accommodations and several gear rental shops here. You can also make your little ones happy by letting them take part in Spongebob-themed classes for children. Moreover, this ski area offers a long ski season, running from November through March.
How to get there: It only takes a one-way trip to get to Yuzawa from Tokyo. Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo and get off at Echigo-Yuzawa station.
To make it easier, we’ve listed a few accommodation recommendations below for your skiing trip to Yuzawa Onsen.
Yuzawa Onsen
Address: Yuzawa, Niigata, Japan
Website: Yuzawa Onsen
Price: from 1500 JPY (10.72 USD) (nighter ski-lift pass) to 6000 JPY (42.87 USD) (full-day ski-lift pass)
Yuzawa Toei Hotel
Address: Yuzawa 3459
209.72 km (130.4 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
NASPA New Otani
Address: Yuzawa 2117-9
210.25 km (130.7 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
Yuzawa New Otani
Address: Yuzawa 330
209.7 km (130.3 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
Gunma Prefecture
1. Ski at your own pace in Minakami
Reasonable pricing for the location and amenities offered.
Spacious common area, Japanese bath (ofuro), and access to nature activities.
Conveniently located near Tanigawa Ropeway and hiking trails, with a beautiful river nearby.
Delicious and hearty breakfast and dinner, accommodating special dietary needs.
Less than an hour from Yuzawa in Niigata and just an hour away from Tokyo via train, Minakami is suitable for skiers who dream of having an off-beat Japanese ski adventure without being far from the capital. This massive ski area comprises nine snow resorts, including Tenjindaira Ski Resort and Minakami Kogen Resort 200.
When visiting the Minakami area, be sure to drop by the remarkable Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku. It is one of the country’s largest outdoor hot springs, perfect for capping off your day after hitting the snowy slopes.
How to get there: Ride a Shinkansen to Jomo Kogen Station from Tokyo. Once you arrive, take a bus going to Minakami Station and alight at the station or any of your drop-off points in Minakami.
Below are a couple of ski accommodations for you to check out!
Minakami
Address: Minakami, Gunma, Japan
Price: From 4500 JPY (32.15 USD) (full-day lift pass); from 4500 JPY (32.15 USD) to 7000 JPY (50.01 USD) (ski rental); from 30000 JPY (211.14) (half-day ski lessons)
Tenjin Lodge
Address: Yubiso 220-4
209.24 km (130.1 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
Minakami Kogen Hotel 200
Address: Fujiwara 6152-1
201.52 km (125.3 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
Pension Old String
Address: Fujiwara 4985-25
202.5 km (125.9 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
Tohuku region
1. Witness "snow monsters" at Zao Onsen Ski Resort
Recognized as one of the oldest ski resorts in Japan, Zao Onsen Ski Resort exudes a classical and nostalgic charm. A long ropeway leads to the peak of Mt. Zao in case you want to marvel at the spectacular sight from the hills. Nocturnals who prefer night skiing are only allowed to ski at the lower elevations of the resort.
During winter, the thick piles of snow embrace the evergreen trees, creating a breathtaking scenery of soaring “snow monsters” through the skyline. These ice trees illuminate at night with glowing lights, creating a picturesque view to admire as you sip your tea on a cozy cafe seat.
How to get there: Ride a Shinkansen from Tokyo to Yamagata, and then catch the bus to Zao Onsen once you arrive in Yamagata.
For stays, find below our accommodation choices for your trip to Zao Onsen Ski Resort.
Zao Onsen Ski Resort
Address: 708-1 Zao Onsen, Yamagata-City, Yamagata, Japan
Website: Zao Onsen Ski Resort
Opening months: Early December to early May
Price: From 2600 JPY (18.58 USD) (nighter ski-lift pass) to 6300 JPY (45.01 USD) (full-day ski-lift pass); 3500 JPY (25.01 USD) (Snow Monster Illumination roundtrip admission ticket)
Zao Shiki no Hotel
Address: Zao Onsen 1272
17.35 km (10.8 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
Zao Onsen Omiya Ryokan
Address: Zaoonsen 46
16.4 km (10.2 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
Meitoya So
Address: Zao Onsen48
16.5 km (10.3 mi) from Rissyakuji Temple (Yamadera)
The best time to ski in Japan
The ski season in Japan is usually from mid-December until early April. This is when the country’s snow condition is in its full glory. However, it still depends on the opening times and locations of the resorts. The snow season typically begins earlier in Hokkaido and Nagano since the first one is positioned in the northern part of Japan, while the Nagano mountains are perched at higher altitudes.
The peak season is from January to February. Many skiers flock to Japan’s ski resorts from late December and late January to mid-February to spend the winter holidays. If you are eyeing good deals to go easy on your pockets, the best time to visit would be mid-December, March, and April.
Brief cost breakdown
The truth about skiing in Japan is that it can cost a lot of money, but the good news is that you can save on expenses with proper planning and budgeting. Skiing in Japan can be relatively affordable if you opt for budget accommodations and book flights and ski access early to avail yourself of discounted rates.
Here is an approximate cost breakdown for skiing in Japan:
Note: The rates may vary depending on your choices and spending habits. These are the approximate rates per day (except for the JR Pass).
Japan Rail (JR) 7-day Pass: 29,650 JPY (211.84 USD) (for ordinary car)
It is best to avail yourself of the JR Pass since this is the most convenient transportation mode to reach most ski resorts in Japan.
Ski-lift tickets: 3,500 JPY (25.01 USD) to 5,000 JPY (35.72 USD)
The cost of lift tickets varies depending on the ski resort. The all-inclusive passes are priced higher, while nighter passes are more affordable.
Full-set rental: 3,000 JPY (21.43 USD) to 5,000 JPY (35.72 USD)
Meal expenses: from 300 JPY (2.14 USD) for three convenience store meals
If you are tight on budget, you can opt for cheaper snack options in the convenience stores, such as Japanese riceballs (onigiri) that typically starts at 100 JPY (0.71 USD). A bowl of ramen costs around 600 JPY (4.29 USD) to 1200 JPY (8.57 USD).
Tasting sushi and Wagyu beef in Japan is almost an unmissable experience. A sushi meal will cost anywhere from 2,000 JPY (14.29 USD) to 10,000 JPY (71.45 USD) per person. Meanwhile, Wagyu meals usually range from 2,000 JPY (14.29 USD) to 4,000 JPY (28.58 USD) per meal per person.
Accommodation: from 2,000 JPY (14.29 USD) per night per person (for hostels)
The rates depend on the type of accommodation you book. Hostels and dormitories offer cost-effective options, while high-end ryokans and hotels are more expensive, especially if meals and transfers are included. These high-end accommodations can cost up to 30,000 JPY (214.34 USD).
Bus fares: around 200 JPY (1.43 USD) per trip
After riding the Shinkansen and arriving at the destination, you will usually need to ride a bus or shuttle to reach the ski resort. Most ski accommodations and resorts offer free shuttle services for added convenience.
TOTAL ESTIMATED COST: 36,650 JPY (261.85 USD)
Family-friendly ski experiences
Families who plan to go on a ski adventure for the winter holidays will be delighted to know that there are many family-friendly resorts and experiences in store for them! Many ski resorts in Japan come with mixed-level ski slopes for all ages, such as Shiga Kogen, Niseko, and Sahoro. A range of child-friendly services, including daycare and ski and snowboard lessons in English, are also available.
Tomamu features Club Med Tomamu where kids are taken care of and can enjoy various fun-filled activities curated for all age groups - from infants and toddlers to teens of 17. Meanwhile, Myoko Kogen provides group snowsports lessons in English, kids’ programs, and childcare.
Things to know about ski equipment and services
Ski equipment and gear rentals
The good news is that every ski resort in Japan has rental outlets, so you won’t have to worry about bringing your personal gear and equipment and paying for excess baggage! These rental outlets are equipped with everything from affordable paraphernalia to luxury brands. The outlets can usually be found near the main lifts and gondolas at the foot of the mountain or tucked away in the local villages near the slopes.
Tip: It is still safe if you carry ski accessories and clothes that come in accurate sizes since these are usually subject to availability. For your reference, ski boot sizes from 22 cm - 34 cm are generally available.
Ski lessons for beginners and guided skiing
Most ski resorts in Japan offer ski lessons for novice skiers, with both one-on-one and group options. Foreign tourists can book a friendly English-speaking instructor for a barrier-free learning experience. Ski lesson packages are also tailored for kids in select resorts, including Tomamu and Sahoro., for children aged four and above. Choose from a wide range of programs, from beginner to advanced skill levels, by enrolling in international snowsports schools, such as Evergreen International Ski School in Hakuba.
On the other hand, guided skiing is recommended to ensure safety for those who plan to go off-piste or backcountry. Some of the best spots for these skiing adventures are Niseko and Nozawa Onsen.
Transporting and stowing your ski gear
If you are a skier who prefers lugging personal gear and equipment, you will be pleased to know that baggage and delivery services are reasonably priced in Japan. Yamato Transport’s Takuhaibin offers door-to-door delivery services nationwide for your convenience.
Storage spaces for ski and snowboarding luggage are available in the Shinkansen bullet train carriage if you want to stow them while traveling. There are also luggage counters in train stations to safeguard your gear for up to 15 days.
Snowboarding in Japan
Skiing in Japan is one thing, but let us delve further into snowboarding! Although often used interchangeably, skiing and snowboarding are two distinct snowsports that require different skills and balance. The most visible difference is that skiing uses a pair of skis, while snowboarding uses a single board to explore the slopes.
Tenjindaira Ski Resort and Kiroro Ski Resort are some of Japan’s best snowboarding spots. The first boasts steep backcountry terrains, while the second features guided off-piste areas. You can enjoy a snowboarding adventure in Japan between the months of November and April, depending on which resort you choose.
Après ski
Après ski is a French term that directly translates to “after skiing.” Basically, these are the post-ski activities and things skiers do once they finish an adventure-packed day on the slopes. Keep the excitement going by reveling in Japan’s vibrant entertainment, dining, and nightlife scenes before finally capping off your day in your cozy accommodations.
Every ski region in Japan oozes a distinct après ski character. In Hokkaido, après ski comes in the forms of lively clubs, local gastropubs, live music, and upscale restaurants. You can sample regional craft beers in Niseko to complete your trip!
Meanwhile, in the Nagano prefecture in Honshu, the vibe is more traditional and ethnic. Explore the quaint Hakuba Village to catch a glimpse of the local lifestyle. You can also take a relaxing dip in the natural hot springs of Nozawa Onsen to soothe your body and mind.
Our CEO, Kei Shibata, shares his skiing experience
Trip101’s CEO, Kei Shibata, holds a deep passion for skiing and has been enjoying this activity since childhood. And here, he shares his personal experience of skiing in Japan. Read on if you want to pick up some useful tips as well as recommendations for lesser-known skiing destinations!
Q. How were you introduced to skiing?
I was introduced to skiing during my childhood as one of my sporting activities. It quickly became a passion of mine. I started participating in competitive alpine skiing when I was in junior high. Throughout my academic years, I joined the ski teams in high school and later in college at Keio University. I ended up skiing competitively in both alpine and Nordic cross-country disciplines for a span of eight years. Growing up in Tokyo, it was a truly unique and special experience!
Q. How do you choose skiing resorts or accommodations for a skiing trip?
When selecting skiing resorts or places to stay for a skiing trip, my primary consideration is the snow conditions, especially since I have been snowboarding frequently in recent years. I particularly enjoy snowboarding in powder snow, as it adds to the excitement and fun of the experience.
Q. Which is your favorite skiing destination in Japan?
Japan offers several fantastic skiing destinations, but some of my favorites include Niseko, Rusutsu, Hakuba, and Hakkoda. These places rarely disappoint in terms of snow quality. I also have a fondness for Nozawa, as it’s a charming snow village that holds a special appeal for me.
Q. What are the best months to ski in Japan?
The best months for skiing in Japan are generally January and February. Late December and early March can also offer favorable skiing conditions in certain areas. However, it’s advisable to avoid the Christmas and New Year as well as the Lunar New Year seasons, especially when visiting popular international resorts like Niseko or Hakuba. During these times, the queues for lifts can be quite overwhelming.
Q. Could you share your favorite skiing anecdote?
Recently, I have developed a deep interest in backcountry snowboarding, which has opened up an entirely new world of experiences for me. I now participate in group excursions led by tour guides, where we hike up snow-covered mountains rather than sticking to regular ski areas. Descending through untouched, deep, virgin powder snow on my snowboard has become incredibly addictive and exhilarating for me.
Q. What tips do you have for beginners interested in skiing?
For beginners, my advice would be to take lessons to learn the fundamentals and techniques of skiing (or snowboarding). This will help you build a strong foundation and enhance your overall skiing experience. Additionally, don’t forget to make time to enjoy après-ski activities and visit local onsens (hot springs) to relax and rejuvenate after a day on the slopes.
Japanese cultural experiences
If you are interested in immersing yourself in local and traditional experiences, Nozawa Onsen, Myoko Kogen, Minakami, and Zao Onsen ski resorts will suit your needs. Alternatively, Niseko and Hakuba are famous among foreigners for their welcoming hospitality.
Hokkaido
After spending a day on the snowy slopes, you can indulge in a variety of cultural experiences in Hokkaido. Try wearing a traditional kimono while sauntering around Sapporo. A rickshaw tour in Otaru will transport you back in time as you discover the old trading center of Hokkaido.
Nagano and Niigata
Soak your cares away in the hot springs in Nagano to make up for all the time your body spent in frigid temperatures. Nagano is also known for its buckwheat soba noodles, so be sure to get a taste of this dish while here. Wrap up your day with Japanese rice wine (saké) in one of the breweries in Niigata.
Tohoku
Tohoku boasts many cultural workshops for a productive day, including Kokeshi doll-making and bamboo chopstick-crafting in Miyagi prefecture. The region also does not lack in onsens to soothe your senses.
Ski on powder!
For ski enthusiasts, nothing compares to gliding through challenging terrains and tree-lined slopes on a fine winter day. Japan, with its exceptionally light and powdery snow, offers an excellent opportunity for skiers to immerse in a wonderful wintertime adventure. What are you waiting for? Brave the impressive downhill runs and ski on the powdery snow of this country! Feel free to use this article as a guide to kickstart your skiing adventure in Japan.
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