The Best Season for Skiing in Japan
The best time to go skiing in Japan depends on which ski field you will visit. The ski season runs from late December to March, and as late as May in certain areas. January to February is generally the best time to go skiing in Hakuba as this is when the region receives its best powder snow. Most visitors are pleasantly surprised by the lack of queues for lifts, despite it being the busiest time on the slopes.
According to snow reports of Niseko, the most popular times to visit is January and February. However, mid-February through the end of March, the area offers an excellent base of snow along with more sunny days, which is more ideal for families as prices drop, but skiing and nightlife are still plentiful.
Naeba (Niigata Prefecture): December to March next year
Gala Yuzawa Snow Resort: December to May next year
Hoshino Resorts Alts Bandai: December to March next year
Hoshino Resorts Nekoma: November to May next year
Listel Inawashiro Bandai: December to March next year
Karuizawa (Nagano Prefecture): November to March next year
APPI Ski Resort: December to March next year
Hakuba Happo-one (Nagano Prefecture): December to April next year
Hakuba 47(Nagano Prefecture): December to May next year
Iwatake in Hakuba (Nagano Prefecture): December to March next year
Shiga Kogen Ski Area: December to March next year
Zao Onsen Ski Resort: December to March next year
Annupuri (Niseko): November to May next year
Village (Niseko): December to April next year
Grand Hirafu (Niseko): November to May next year
Hanazono (Niseko): December to March next year
The best time to go skiing in Japan depends on which ski field you will visit. The ski season runs from late December to March, and as late as May in certain areas. January to February is generally the best time to go skiing in Hakuba as this is when the region receives its best powder snow. Most visitors are pleasantly surprised by the lack of queues for lifts, despite it being the busiest time on the slopes.
According to snow reports of Niseko, the most popular times to visit is January and February. However, mid-February through the end of March, the area offers an excellent base of snow along with more sunny days, which is more ideal for families as prices drop, but skiing and nightlife are still plentiful.
Ski Season in Japan
Kagura (Niigata Prefecture): November to May next yearNaeba (Niigata Prefecture): December to March next year
Gala Yuzawa Snow Resort: December to May next year
Hoshino Resorts Alts Bandai: December to March next year
Hoshino Resorts Nekoma: November to May next year
Listel Inawashiro Bandai: December to March next year
Karuizawa (Nagano Prefecture): November to March next year
APPI Ski Resort: December to March next year
Hakuba Happo-one (Nagano Prefecture): December to April next year
Hakuba 47(Nagano Prefecture): December to May next year
Iwatake in Hakuba (Nagano Prefecture): December to March next year
Shiga Kogen Ski Area: December to March next year
Zao Onsen Ski Resort: December to March next year
Annupuri (Niseko): November to May next year
Village (Niseko): December to April next year
Grand Hirafu (Niseko): November to May next year
Hanazono (Niseko): December to March next year
When to Ski in Japan
As a reliable Japan Travel Agency, we provide ski tours and Chauffeur services for travelers from overseas. Whether you are looking for a ski tour or a private transfer, you can easily find the most suitable one at an affordable price. Contact our representatives to book our Japan ski tours and Japan private chauffeur today.Related Articles You May Like
Most Frequently Asked Questions
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Do ski resorts open in October and November in Japan?October and November are usually the beginning of the skiing season, and not many resorts are open to the public yet. If you want to early practice before the skiing season, you can pay attention the opening times for Snowtown Yeti, Sayama (an indoor ski area), and Karuizawa Princehotel Snow Resort. These resorts generally open early. Snowtown Yeti, for example, opened on 6 Oct in 2017.
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Is December an ideal time to ski in Japan?Yes, most ski resorts are open by early December. Whether you plan for a day trip to ski or an extended stay at a ski resorts, there are plenty of options you can choose from.
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Will there be a lot of visitors in late December?Due to Christmas and New Year in December, large ski resorts such as Niseko in Hokkaido are usually fully booked. If you plan to stay at a ski resort toward the end of the year for the holidays, it is highly recommended to reserve in advance.
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I plan to visit Japan in March for skiing. Are there any ski resorts available?The weather starts to get warm in March, thus quality of the snow goes down. However, resorts located at high altitude, with thick snow, and low temperature are rarely impacted. Thus, you can consider Gala Yuzawa Snow Resort, Hoshino Resorts, Nekoma, Annupuri.
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Can I ski during spring time?As temperature warms up, ski resorts start to close in March, and latest by April and May. There are resorts open in spring for guests who want to avoid the peak skiing season. Skiing in spring is the best option for those prefer more spaces.
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I want to experience the professional ski trails in Japan. When is the best time to visit?We would recommend visiting in January and February. Though rooms tend to be fully booking and ski trails are crowded, you can experience the unique skiing atmosphere in Japan.
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What time do the ski resorts open in Nagano?Nagano ski resorts usually open from December to March. For the specific opening time at each resort, please refer to their official website.
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What time do the ski resorts open in Hokkaido?Hokkaido ski resorts usually open from December to April. For the specific opening time at each resort, please refer to their official website.
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