JAPAN SKI RESORTS

The Japan Ski Resorts’ Guide to unleash the Powder Paradise

Abundance of Snow
- Japan is renowned for its incredible snow quality, known as "Japow" (Japanese powder). The country receives heavy snowfall, especially in regions like Hokkaido and the Japan Alps, creating excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding.
Varied Terrain
- It offers diverse terrains suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. You can find gentle slopes for beginners, challenging runs for experts, and backcountry areas for powder enthusiasts. The country's volcanic landscape provides unique opportunities for off-piste skiing.
Resort Infrastructure
- Plenty of developed ski resorts with modern facilities, efficient lift systems, and quality rental gear. Many resorts also offer English-speaking staff, making it easier for international visitors to navigate and enjoy their skiing or snowboarding experience.
Onsen (Hot Springs)
- After a day on the slopes, you can indulge in traditional Japanese onsen, hot springs renowned for their therapeutic properties is a great way to unwind and soothe your muscles.
Cultural Experience
- Skiing or snowboarding in Japan allows you to immerse yourself in the country's unique culture. You can savor delicious Japanese cuisine, explore local traditions, and enjoy the hospitality of the Japanese.
Crowds
Japan's popularity as a ski and snowboard destination means that some resorts can become crowded, particularly during peak seasons like weekends and holidays. Lift lines may be longer, and popular areas might have more people on the slopes.
Language Barrier
While many ski resorts in Japan cater to international visitors, some smaller or more remote areas may have limited English-speaking staff. Communicating with locals and getting information or assistance can be a challenge if you don't speak Japanese.
Costs
Skiing and snowboarding in Japan can be costly, especially when compared to other destinations in Asia. Lift tickets, accommodations, equipment rentals, and dining expenses can add up quickly, particularly in popular resort areas.
Weather Variability
While Japan is known for its abundant snow, weather conditions can be unpredictable. There might be periods of heavy snowfall, but also times when conditions are less ideal. It's essential to monitor weather forecasts and choose the right time to visit.
Accessibility
Although Japan has a well-connected transportation network, some ski resorts can be challenging to reach, especially those in remote areas. It may require multiple transfers or long journeys to reach certain destinations.

Where should I go for skiing & snowboarding in Japan Ski Resorts?

There are 2 main areas i.e. Honshu (本州) & Hokkaido (北海道) for skiing & snowboarding in Japan, 17 resorts are highlighted below:

Most resorts below are located in Nagano (長野市) and Niigata (新潟).
*(approx. driving hours from Tokyo International Airport - Haneda)
- Appi Kogen Ski Resort, Iwate 安比高原スキー場 *(7 hrs)
- Akakura Onsen Ski Resort, Niigata 赤倉温泉スキー場 *(4 hrs)
- Gala, Niigata ガーラ湯沢スキー場 *(3 hrs)
- Hakuba Ski Resorts, Nagano 白馬 *(4 hrs)
- Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort, Niigata 上越国際スキー場 *(3 hrs)
- Karuizawa Ski Resort, Nagano 軽井沢 *(2.5 hrs)
- Madarao Ski Resort, Nagano 班尾高原スキー場 *(4 hrs)
- Manza Ski Resort 万座温泉スキー場 *(4 hr)
- Naeba Ski Resort, Niigata 苗場スキー場 *(3 hrs)
- Nozawa Ski Resort, Nagano 野沢温泉スキー場 *(4 hr)
- Shigakogen Ski Resort, Nagano 志賀高原スキー場 *(4 hrs)
- Zao Ski Resort, Yamagata 蔵王温泉スキー場 *(5 hrs)
*(Approx. driving hours from New Chitose Airport)
- Furano Ski Resort 富良野 *(2 hrs)
- Kiroro Ski Resort キロロ *(1.5 hrs)
- Hirafu Ski Resort 二世古 *(2 hrs)
- Tomamu Ski Resort 星野 *(1.5 hrs)
- Rusutsu Ski Resort 留寿都 *(1.5 hrs)
While both Niigata and Nagano in central Japan (Honshu) and Hokkaido in northern Japan offer excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities, there are some notable differences between the regions:
Snow Quality
- Hokkaido is known for its light, dry, and abundant snowfall, often referred to as "Japow" (Japanese powder). The snow in Hokkaido is often considered to be some of the best in the world for skiing and snowboarding. Niigata and Nagano also receive ample snowfall, but the snow may be slightly heavier and wetter compared to Hokkaido.
Terrain
- Hokkaido tends to have more expansive and open terrain, with wide slopes, vast powder fields, and tree runs. The resorts in Hokkaido offer a variety of off-piste and backcountry opportunities. On the other hand, Niigata and Nagano have a mix of both open slopes and tree runs, but the terrain is generally more varied and can include steeper slopes and challenging terrain.
Resort Infrastructure
- Hokkaido is known for its modern and well-developed ski resorts with comprehensive facilities and amenities catering to international visitors. Many resorts in Hokkaido have English-speaking staff, international dining options, and a vibrant après-ski scene. Niigata and Nagano also have well-established resorts with good facilities, but they may have a more traditional Japanese atmosphere.
Crowds
- Hokkaido's popularity among international and domestic tourists has increased in recent years, particularly in popular resorts such as Niseko. Consequently, some areas of Hokkaido can be more crowded during peak winter season. Niigata and Nagano, while still attracting visitors, generally have a more relaxed and less crowded atmosphere.
Accessibility
- Niigata and Nagano are more accessible from Tokyo and other major cities in central Japan, making them popular choices for day trips or weekend getaways. Hokkaido, being located further north, requires a longer travel time from Tokyo and often involves taking a domestic flight or a bullet train combined with a ferry or local transport.

Transportation to Japan Ski Resorts

Japan's extensive train network, including the Shinkansen (bullet train), provides the ease of access to many Japan ski resorts. Some resorts have train stations nearby or offer shuttle services from the nearest train station to the ski resort.
Many Japan ski resorts operate shuttle buses from major cities or transportation hubs to the ski resort. These buses often have designated stops at popular hotels or transportation terminals.
Renting a car in Japan is another option, especially for those who prefer flexibility and independence for their travel plans. Most major ski resorts have parking facilities available for guests, while it is very easy to drive in Japan although it might be a bit daunting for people who come from countries with left-hand traffic. Below are some popular car rental companies in Japan:
Taxis and Uber are available in Japan and can be used to reach ski resorts, although they are more expensive compared to other transportation options.

FAQs for Japan Ski Resorts

The best time to visit Japan ski resorts largely depends on your preferences and the specific region you plan to visit. Generally, the ski season in Japan runs from December to early April, with some resorts opening as early as November and others staying open until May. However, the optimal time to visit can vary depending on factors such as snow conditions, crowd levels, and your preferred skiing or snowboarding experience. Here are a few considerations for each period within the ski season:
December to January
- This period is typically characterized by colder temperatures and excellent snow quality, particularly in the northern regions like Hokkaido. However, it's also the peak season, so popular resorts may be crowded.
February
- February is still a popular time to visit, with good snow conditions and slightly milder temperatures compared to December and January. It can be a great time to avoid some of the peak-season crowds.
March to April
- Towards the end of the ski season, you may find fewer crowds, longer daylight hours, and relatively warmer weather. Although the snow quality may not be as nice as other seasons, but the cost of air flights and hotels can be lower.
eHere are some tips to help you find reliable local forecasts and conditions for Japan ski resorts:
Resort Websites and Social Media
- Visit the official websites and social media accounts of the ski resorts you're interested in. They often provide up-to-date information about current snow conditions, weather forecasts, and any special events or promotions.
Weather Forecast Websites
- Check trusted weather forecast websites that provide detailed forecasts for specific regions in Japan, such as Snow-forecast.com, SnowJapan.com, or Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA). These websites often provide snowfall predictions, temperature information, and wind conditions.
Snow Reports and Webcams
- Look for snow reports and webcams on resort websites or independent snow-reporting websites. These reports typically provide firsthand information about snow depths, recent snowfall, and current conditions. Webcams allow you to visually assess the slope conditions in real-time.
Local Ski and Snowboard Forums
- Join online forums and communities where skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts discuss their experiences in Japan. These forums often have dedicated sections for specific ski resorts, where members share information, photos, and current conditions.
Websites/ Mobile Apps
- There are several mobile apps available that provide real-time snow reports, weather forecasts, and trail maps for ski resorts in Japan. Some popular apps include SnowJapan, Ski Japan, YAMAP and Yukiyama.
Local Tourism Information Centers
- If you're already in Japan, consider visiting local tourism information centers near the ski resorts. They can provide updated information, brochures, and recommendations based on the current conditions.
Remember that weather forecasting is not always 100% accurate, so it's essential to stay flexible and keep an eye on multiple sources for a more comprehensive understanding of the conditions. Additionally, local ski resort staff and instructors can often provide valuable insights and recommendations based on their experience and knowledge of the area.
Top 10 resorts with the longest trails:
Shiga Kogen (Nagano)
- Shiga Kogen is one of Japan's largest ski areas, known for its extensive trail network. The resort has multiple interconnected mountains, offering a combined trail length of over 80 kilometers.
Nozawa Onsen (Nagano)
- Nozawa Onsen boasts a diverse range of trails with a total length of around 50 kilometers. It's a popular resort known for its traditional Japanese village and abundant snowfall.
Happo-One (Hakuba, Nagano)
- Happo-One in the Hakuba Valley is home to the famous Kurobishi course, which is approximately 8 kilometers long. The resort has a total trail length of around 40 kilometers.
Niseko United (Hokkaido)
- Niseko United is a collection of four interconnected resorts: Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village, and Annupuri. Together, they offer a combined trail length of over 40 kilometers.
Hakuba 47 (Hakuba, Nagano)
- Hakuba 47 is part of the Hakuba Valley ski area and features a variety of trails, including the R-8 course, which is around 6 kilometers long. The resort has a total trail length of approximately 30 kilometers.
Furano Ski Resort (Hokkaido)
- Furano Ski Resort is known for its wide, groomed trails and offers a total length of around 25 kilometers. It's a popular destination for both skiing and snowboarding.
Kiroro (Hokkaido)
- Kiroro Ski Resort features a range of trails with a total length of approximately 21 kilometers. It's known for its consistent snowfall and beautiful powder conditions.
Rusutsu Resort (Hokkaido)
- Rusutsu Resort offers a diverse range of trails, including the popular West Mountain course, which is around 3.5 kilometers long. The resort has a total trail length of about 20 kilometers.
Myoko Akakura (Niigata)
- Myoko Akakura is a collection of ski resorts in the Myoko Kogen area, including Akakura Onsen Ski Resort and Akakura Kanko Resort. Combined, they offer a total trail length of around 20 kilometers.
Zao Onsen (Yamagata)
- Zao Onsen is known for its stunning "snow monsters" (frozen trees covered in ice and snow) and offers a total trail length of about 18 kilometers.
Top 10 largest ski resorts in Japan:
Shiga Kogen (Nagano)
- Shiga Kogen is one of Japan's largest ski areas, encompassing a vast area of interconnected mountains. It offers a combined skiable terrain of over 600 hectares.
Niseko United (Hokkaido)
- Niseko United is a collection of four interconnected resorts: Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village, and Annupuri. Together, they provide a combined skiable terrain of over 600 hectares.
Hakuba Valley (Nagano)
- Hakuba Valley is a collection of multiple ski resorts in the Hakuba area, including Happo-One, Hakuba Goryu, Hakuba 47, and more. Combined, they offer a skiable terrain of around 960 hectares.
Myoko Kogen (Niigata)
- Myoko Kogen consists of several interconnected resorts, including Akakura Onsen Ski Resort, Akakura Kanko Resort, and others. The combined skiable terrain in the Myoko Kogen area is approximately 890 hectares.
Zao Onsen (Yamagata)
- Zao Onsen is known for its impressive skiable terrain, including the famous "Juhyo" or "snow monsters." The resort offers a skiable area of around 800 hectares.
Appi Kogen (Iwate)
- Appi Kogen is a large ski resort in the Tohoku region of Japan, offering a skiable terrain of approximately 745 hectares. It features a wide range of runs suitable for various skill levels.
Furano Ski Resort (Hokkaido)
- Furano Ski Resort is known for its wide slopes and varied terrain. It provides a skiable area of around 360 hectares, making it one of the larger resorts in Japan.
Gala Yuzawa (Niigata)
- Gala Yuzawa is a unique resort that's easily accessible from Tokyo. It offers a skiable area of about 300 hectares and is known for its convenient bullet train access.
Naeba (Niigata)
- Naeba is a popular ski resort located in Niigata Prefecture. It has a skiable terrain of approximately 280 hectares and is known for hosting international ski events.
Tomamu (Hokkaido)
- Tomamu Ski Resort is situated in central Hokkaido and provides a skiable area of around 280 hectares. It offers a variety of terrain and has modern resort facilities.
3 closest Ski Resorts from Tokyo
Gala Yuzawa
- Gala Yuzawa is the most accessible ski resort from Tokyo, located in Niigata Prefecture. It's directly connected to Echigo-Yuzawa Station by the Joetsu Shinkansen (bullet train), making it possible to reach the resort in around 75 minutes from Tokyo Station. Gala Yuzawa offers a variety of slopes and facilities suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
Fujiten Snow Resort
- Fujiten Snow Resort is located in Yamanashi Prefecture, relatively close to Tokyo. It's about a two-hour drive from central Tokyo, making it a convenient option for a day trip. While it may not be as large as other resorts, it offers a range of slopes and amenities for skiing and snowboarding.
Kusatsu Kokusai Ski Resort
- Kusatsu Kokusai Ski Resort is situated in Gunma Prefecture, approximately three hours away from Tokyo by car or public transportation. It's a larger resort with various runs catering to different skill levels. Kusatsu Kokusai is known for its good snow quality and hot springs (onsen) in the nearby Kusatsu Onsen town, making it a popular destination for winter sports and relaxation.
The three closest ski resorts to Sapporo, the largest city in Hokkaido, Japan, are:
Sapporo Teine
- Sapporo Teine is the closest ski resort to the city, located just outside of Sapporo. It consists of two interconnected areas: Teine Olympia and Teine Highland. Teine Olympia offers a variety of runs suitable for all skill levels, while Teine Highland is known for its challenging terrain and off-piste opportunities. The resort can be reached by public transportation, with buses available from Sapporo Station.
Kiroro Resort
- Kiroro Resort is located in Akaigawa, approximately 45 kilometers west of Sapporo. It takes about 90 minutes by car or bus to reach the resort from central Sapporo. Kiroro is renowned for its abundant snowfall and offers a range of slopes for all abilities, including groomed runs and ungroomed powder areas. The resort provides various facilities, including rental services and accommodation options.
Kokusai Ski Resort
- Kokusai Ski Resort is situated in the town of Kimobetsu, about 65 kilometers southwest of Sapporo. It takes approximately 90 minutes by car or bus to reach the resort from central Sapporo. Kokusai is known for its wide slopes, long runs, and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The resort offers diverse terrain suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
Below are 10 featured ski resorts that offer you more than just skiing and snowboarding in Japan.
Niseko (Hokkaido)
- Niseko is renowned for its excellent powder snow and vibrant international atmosphere. Besides skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy activities such as snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and snow tubing. The area is also known for its hot springs (onsen), where you can relax and rejuvenate after a day on the slopes. Niseko Village and Hirafu Village offer a wide range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
Hakuba (Nagano)
- Hakuba Valley hosted the Winter Olympics in 1998 and is a popular ski destination. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can try activities like snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and scenic helicopter tours. One of the highlights is the Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you can observe wild snow monkeys bathing in hot springs. Hakuba Village provides a lively après-ski scene with numerous restaurants, bars, and shops.
Shiga Kogen (Nagano)
- Shiga Kogen is one of Japan's largest ski areas and offers a variety of winter activities. Apart from skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy snowshoeing, snow trekking, and wildlife spotting. Shiga Kogen is known for its hot springs, and many resorts have onsen facilities where you can relax. The area is part of Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, offering beautiful natural surroundings.
Nozawa Onsen (Nagano)
- Nozawa Onsen is a charming ski resort famous for its traditional hot spring town. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can visit the public hot springs and experience the local onsen culture. The resort also hosts the Dosojin Fire Festival, a unique cultural event held annually in January, featuring spectacular fire displays and festivities.
Furano (Hokkaido)
- Furano is a picturesque ski resort with stunning landscapes and excellent snow conditions. Besides skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. The resort also offers night skiing and snow tubing. The nearby town of Furano is known for its lavender fields and is a popular destination during the summer months.
Zao Onsen (Yamagata)
- Zao Onsen is famous for its "snow monsters" or "ice trees," which are created by heavy snowfall and freezing winds. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can take a ropeway ride to witness these unique natural formations. Zao Onsen also offers hot springs and a charming village atmosphere.
Appi Kogen (Iwate)
- Appi Kogen is a family-friendly ski resort that offers a variety of activities. Besides skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy snowshoeing, snow tubing, and ice skating. The resort has an indoor pool, hot springs, and wellness facilities for relaxation.
Myoko Kogen (Niigata)
- Myoko Kogen is a collection of interconnected resorts known for its abundant snowfall. Apart from skiing and snowboarding, you can try snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and winter trekking. The area also offers hot springs and a relaxed atmosphere.
Tomamu (Hokkaido)
- Tomamu is a modern ski resort with a range of activities. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice village experiences. The resort features an ice and snow village with ice slides, ice bars, and an ice chapel.
Yuzawa (Niigata)
- Yuzawa is a popular ski destination due to its proximity to Tokyo. Besides skiing and snowboarding, you can try snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and snow rafting. The town has numerous hot springs where you can unwind and enjoy the therapeutic waters.