Where to Ski in Japan
Where to ski in Japan? The ski season in Japan runs from mid to late December until March, and in some resorts, it can run as late as May. Depending on which ski resort you will visit, it will vary when the best time to go is. It also depends on whether you are looking for the best slopes, powder, or fewer crowds. Japan has a variety of ski resorts with each area having its unique terrain.
Northern Central Hokkaido Area
There are over ninety ski areas located across Hokkaido. The quality of the snow in Northern Central Hokkaido is one of the best, as it may not compare to the snow quantity in Niseko or Hakuba. In this region, destinations for skiing include Asahidake, Kamui, Kurodake, and Furano. Each place has its unique terrain, ranging from slopes and quantity, so some may offer more than others in terms of what conditions you want to ski and stay in.
Like Kurodake, there is no tourist infrastructure and no convenient public transportation, so a rental car will be of more convenience. On the other hand, Furano is a big resort by Japanese standards, providing easy access to both southern and northern ski areas in the region and, Asahidake is for those that are more advanced in skiing or snowboarding and want to ski in layers of powder.
Where to Ski in Niseko Area
Niseko ski resort is located in Hokkaido, one of the most famous known to get constant quality snow, providing deep snow powder. Information about the Niseko ski resort can be easily found with a quick search online. The ski resort is suited for all levels of ability of skiers and boarders. With the consistency of each skiing season, you would be unlucky to strike out here, as even if it is a bad year of snowfall, it is still good by standards of most visitors.
Huge advantages this area has to offer include the best après-ski scene, French for "after ski" with the best nightlife and restaurants, and an abundance of non-ski activities for those who are not there for the skiing activities. Niseko ranks highest for the best quality snow powder, non-ski activities, après-ski scene, and offering a range of accommodation options.
Ski Resorts in Myoko Area
With mellow tree lines and an increased quantity of snow compared to Hakuba, there is the Myoko Ski Resort. Myoko area is made up of several ski resorts that are connected, but the main area is Myoko Akakura, having two resorts that are adjacent to each other. Unlike Niseko, the après scene is much more limited with fewer restaurants and bars, but there are onsens available at certain accommodations. Along with the area being less of tourist infrastructure, it's quiet and beautiful; but through one of the few western accommodations, the lodging will give you instructions in English to get access to Myoko.
Ski Resorts in Hakuba Area
Hakuba is a valley that comprises of ten resorts spread across many villages and small towns. Located in the Japan Alps, Hakuba is known for the steepest big mountain skiing in Japan. Compared to Hokkaido, the snow quality doesn't have the quality like that region, with the powder being a little denser. Mostly visited by a big population of Japanese local skiers, there are more authentic lodgings and experiences.
The resorts accommodate everyone from the novice to expert so there are no worries when it comes to experience. The Happo-One Ski Resort has the longest vertical pitch in all of Japan providing those who are looking for the best steeps. The best skiing conditions all depends on whether or not the snowfall is delivered, as it can be pretty rough during certain times.
Northern Honshu (Tohoku Area)
Honshu is located on Japan's main island and in the upper northern region is Tohoku. Several resorts in the region offer great snow conditions. Unlike other ski resorts, a trip to Tohoku isn't as convenient, requiring more planning and time to the area and between the resorts. Because of the smaller resorts and having minimal terrain, having a rental car or a guide and driver provide more convenience in going to all the different resorts. A few best spots to hit the slopes in the Tohoku Area are Hakkoda, Zao Onsen in Yamagata Prefecture,and Appi Kogen in Iwate Prefecture. As the area may not have as much snow or high-quality snow than other ski resorts in Japan, Tohoku is like being in a private ski mountain.
Private Chauffeurs/Ski Tours
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.
Where to ski in Japan? The ski season in Japan runs from mid to late December until March, and in some resorts, it can run as late as May. Depending on which ski resort you will visit, it will vary when the best time to go is. It also depends on whether you are looking for the best slopes, powder, or fewer crowds. Japan has a variety of ski resorts with each area having its unique terrain.
Northern Central Hokkaido Area
There are over ninety ski areas located across Hokkaido. The quality of the snow in Northern Central Hokkaido is one of the best, as it may not compare to the snow quantity in Niseko or Hakuba. In this region, destinations for skiing include Asahidake, Kamui, Kurodake, and Furano. Each place has its unique terrain, ranging from slopes and quantity, so some may offer more than others in terms of what conditions you want to ski and stay in.
Like Kurodake, there is no tourist infrastructure and no convenient public transportation, so a rental car will be of more convenience. On the other hand, Furano is a big resort by Japanese standards, providing easy access to both southern and northern ski areas in the region and, Asahidake is for those that are more advanced in skiing or snowboarding and want to ski in layers of powder.
Where to Ski in Niseko Area
Niseko ski resort is located in Hokkaido, one of the most famous known to get constant quality snow, providing deep snow powder. Information about the Niseko ski resort can be easily found with a quick search online. The ski resort is suited for all levels of ability of skiers and boarders. With the consistency of each skiing season, you would be unlucky to strike out here, as even if it is a bad year of snowfall, it is still good by standards of most visitors.
Huge advantages this area has to offer include the best après-ski scene, French for "after ski" with the best nightlife and restaurants, and an abundance of non-ski activities for those who are not there for the skiing activities. Niseko ranks highest for the best quality snow powder, non-ski activities, après-ski scene, and offering a range of accommodation options.
Ski Resorts in Myoko Area
With mellow tree lines and an increased quantity of snow compared to Hakuba, there is the Myoko Ski Resort. Myoko area is made up of several ski resorts that are connected, but the main area is Myoko Akakura, having two resorts that are adjacent to each other. Unlike Niseko, the après scene is much more limited with fewer restaurants and bars, but there are onsens available at certain accommodations. Along with the area being less of tourist infrastructure, it's quiet and beautiful; but through one of the few western accommodations, the lodging will give you instructions in English to get access to Myoko.
Ski Resorts in Hakuba Area
Hakuba is a valley that comprises of ten resorts spread across many villages and small towns. Located in the Japan Alps, Hakuba is known for the steepest big mountain skiing in Japan. Compared to Hokkaido, the snow quality doesn't have the quality like that region, with the powder being a little denser. Mostly visited by a big population of Japanese local skiers, there are more authentic lodgings and experiences.
The resorts accommodate everyone from the novice to expert so there are no worries when it comes to experience. The Happo-One Ski Resort has the longest vertical pitch in all of Japan providing those who are looking for the best steeps. The best skiing conditions all depends on whether or not the snowfall is delivered, as it can be pretty rough during certain times.
Northern Honshu (Tohoku Area)
Honshu is located on Japan's main island and in the upper northern region is Tohoku. Several resorts in the region offer great snow conditions. Unlike other ski resorts, a trip to Tohoku isn't as convenient, requiring more planning and time to the area and between the resorts. Because of the smaller resorts and having minimal terrain, having a rental car or a guide and driver provide more convenience in going to all the different resorts. A few best spots to hit the slopes in the Tohoku Area are Hakkoda, Zao Onsen in Yamagata Prefecture,and Appi Kogen in Iwate Prefecture. As the area may not have as much snow or high-quality snow than other ski resorts in Japan, Tohoku is like being in a private ski mountain.
Private Chauffeurs/Ski Tours
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.
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Most Frequently Asked Questions
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How many ski areas are in Japan?Japan has countless skiing resorts, and the major ski areas include Hokkaido, Nagano, Yamagata, and Iwate in the north of Honshu.
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Can I rent ski equipment at the ski center?Ski equipments, including ski clothes, snowboard, and boots, are usually available at the ski center. You may rent or purchase the equipments upon arrival.
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I plan to ski in Hokkaido. How is the weather like?Hokkaido has unpredictable weather in winter, with many snowy days. Heaters are usually available indoor. However, it is important to wear enough clothes when going outside. Make sure your head, neck, and hands are covered. Goggles are recommended. You may also consider bring a couple sweat resistance and breathable suit.
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What are the popular ski resorts in Hokkaido?If you want to ski in Hokkaido, you can consider: Grand Hirafu (Niseko), Furano Ski Resort, Hoshino Resorts Tomamu Area, Kiroro Resort, Annupuri (Niseko), Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort.
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Where can I ski in Nagano?If you want to ski in Nagano, you can consider: Shiga Kogen Ski Resort, Hakuba Happo-one Snow Resort, and Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort.
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Where can I ski in Honshu during winter?The Amori Hokkaoda Ski Area in the northern Honshu, ZAO Onsen Ski Resort in Yamagata, Gassan Ski Resort, APPI Ski Resort in Iwate, and Hachimantai Resort Shimokura Ski Area are popular ski resorts.
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Where is Shiga Kogen Ski Resort located?Shiga Kogen Ski Resort is located in Nagano Japan. Nagano is well known as a ski town, since the hosting of the Winter Olympic in 1998. Shiga Kogen Mountain Resort is divided into four ski areas: the Maruike, Central, Yokoteyama, and Okushiga. With 18 ski centers and more than 70 connected cable car routes, Shiga Kogen is the largest ski resort in Aisa.
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What is the level of difficulty at Shiga Kogen Mountain Resort? Is it suitable for beginners?Shiga Kogen Mountain Resort has four ski areas. The Yokoteyama area is the most difficult and is for intermediate and advanced skiers. Maruike area, on the other hand, has wide trails for beginners.
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Where is Karuizawa Princehotel Snow Resort located?Karuizawa Princehotel Snow Resort is located at Karuizawa in Nagano. It is the most accessible ski center from Tokyo, and you may arrive in 1 hour taking the Shinkansen. For an enjoyable experience for beginners and intermediates, the trails are all well maintained.
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Can I buy or rent ski equipments at the ski center?Karuizawa Prince Hotel Snow Resort provides the newest snowboard and ski boards for rent. Gloves, goggles, and hats can also be purchased in stores.
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Where is Annupuri (Niseko) located?Annupuri (Niseko) is located on the West side of Hokkaido Niseko Village. From easy trails for beginners and children to steeper pistes for intermediate and advanced skiers, Annupuri offers a variety of ski trails suitable for skiers at all level. Annupuri is the best option for family vacation.
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