Have you ever skied or snowboarded in Japan? In fact, communities living in high snowfall areas in Japan have been using skiing as a means of transportation for hundreds of years. However, it is said that modern skiing was not introduced to Japan until 1911, when an officer from the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Major Theodor Adler von Lerch , came to Niigata Prefecture to teach the Japanese army mountain warfare techniques and skiing techniques. That year , Japan’s first private ski resort, Zao Onsen Ski Resort (Yamagata Prefecture), was officially opened.
By 2023, Japan is expected to have nearly 500 ski resorts. Skiing and snowboarding holidays in Japan are popular not only among locals but also among foreign tourists, especially for the super powder snow conditions, which have earned it the nickname “Japow” (short for Japan Powder Snow).
When it comes to winter vacations in Japan, the first place that comes to mind is usually Hokkaido, located in the northernmost part of Japan, and Niseko is the most popular one. It is famous for its legendary high-quality powder snow and vast ski areas, attracting ski enthusiasts from all over the world to experience the unforgettable and unique charm of Japow.
In addition to the excellent snow quality, Niseko’s après-ski entertainment is also exciting. There are many restaurants, bars, and hot springs to relax in. The whole atmosphere is lively and comfortable, and you can also overlook Mount Yotei, known as the “Mount Fuji of Hokkaido”, which is a beautiful view. Niseko is also very friendly to foreigners. Restaurant menus and various services are available in foreign languages, which has successfully made it a ski resort loved by international tourists.
However, there are many great skiing spots not only in Hokkaido, but also all over Japan. The world-class ski resorts throughout the country not only have first-class snow quality, new facilities, beautiful scenery, but also can have fun and have fun. Want to know where else is worth going? This time, from north to south, we have sorted out five ski resorts worth visiting besides Hokkaido:
The first place to visit is Appi Kogen , located in Iwate Prefecture, one of the northernmost prefectures in Honshu, Japan. There are a variety of ski slopes here, from wide and well-maintained long slopes to challenging wild snow areas. It is one of the representative ski resorts in the Tohoku region, and it also has a complete range of accommodation, restaurants, and other modern facilities.
Because it is located in the north and at a high altitude, the snowfall in Appi Plateau is amazing. Not only is the powder snow extremely beautiful, but the skiing conditions are also excellent. Whether you are a skilled veteran or a family, it is very suitable to come here to ski. In addition to skiing, you can also enjoy other interesting winter activities such as snow hiking, snowmobiling, snow rafting, etc.
The ski season at Appi Kogen usually runs from early December to early May, but it will still be adjusted depending on the snow conditions.
Appi Kogen ski season: Early December to early May (depending on snow conditions) Transportation: Take the Tohoku Shinkansen or Akita Shinkansen from Tokyo Station , which will take about 2 hours and 10 minutes to reach Morioka Station. Then take a bus to Appi Kogen in about 60 minutes.
The next stop is also in the Tohoku region, the Zao Onsen Ski Resort in Yamagata Prefecture . There is a special and dreamy winter landscape here – the snow monster, which is a must-see highlight for skiers and tourists.
The beautiful sight of the snow monsters lit up at night | Photo: Yamagata Prefectural Office
The snow monsters are trees covered with thick snow, which is quite spectacular. The snow monsters are at their most spectacular from early to mid-February every year, and some areas are lit up at night, creating a super special atmosphere.
Zao Onsen Ski Resort is perfect for travelers who want to experience “traditional Japanese style + modern ski facilities + beautiful scenery”. As the name suggests, this is a hot spring area with abundant healing hot spring resources. After a day of skiing, you can immediately relax in the hot springs, and you can also stay in a Japanese inn and enjoy delicious food and warm hospitality.
The ski season at Zao Ski Resort usually runs from mid-December to early May, but it still depends on the actual snow conditions.
Zao Onsen Ski Resort Ski Season: Mid-December to early May (depending on snow conditions) Transportation: Take the Yamagata Shinkansen from Tokyo Station for about 2 hours and 45 minutes to Yamagata Station, then take a bus for about 40 minutes to reach Zao Onsen Ski Resort.
Next, we went to Niigata Prefecture, where there is the only ski resort directly connected to the Shinkansen station: GALA Yuzawa Ski Resort . You can get there in 75 minutes by taking the fastest Shinkansen from Tokyo. For people in the metropolitan area, it is the best choice for a casual winter trip. The ski resort has 16 ski slopes of varying difficulty.
Because of its convenient transportation, GALA Yuzawa Ski Resort is very suitable for people who just want to play for a few hours and experience skiing or snowboarding. The ski resort also provides a wide range of rental equipment, so you don’t need to bring your own equipment, and you can come empty-handed without worrying about bringing extra clothes. GALA Yuzawa Ski Resort also updates the latest styles of skis and snowboards every year, and the maintenance is also very good, so it is safe to use.
GALA Yuzawa also offers foreign language courses, including English and Chinese. If you just want to play in the snow and don’t want to ski, it doesn’t matter. There are also many snow activities such as sledding, snowmobile sledding experience, snow hiking, moon bikes, parent-child snow play areas, etc.
The ski season at GALA Yuzawa Ski Resort usually runs from mid-December to early May, but will be adjusted depending on snow conditions.
GALA Yuzawa Ski Resort is located in Yuzawa Town. Nearby Echigo Yuzawa also offers delicious sake , relaxing hot springs, and endless snow-capped mountains.
GALA Yuzawa Snow Resort Ski Season: Mid-December to early May (depending on snow conditions) Transportation: Take the Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo Station for about 75 minutes to JR GALA Yuzawa Station.
Shiga Kogen is located in the heart of the Joshinetsu Plateau National Park, surrounded by mountains in Nagano Prefecture . It is Japan’s largest ski resort area, consisting of a whole interconnected ski resort with more than 40 cable cars and about 80 ski slopes. It was one of the venues for the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics. From well-prepared ski slopes to natural cross-country ski areas, the ski slopes are rich and diverse, suitable for all levels of skiing.
Shiga Kogen is also the highest ski resort in Japan, with the highest point reaching 2,307 meters. Due to the high terrain and heavy snowfall, the powder snow here is of excellent quality. The spectacular alpine scenery, varied terrain, and excellent snow conditions make Shiga Kogen a popular choice for ski enthusiasts in Japan and abroad. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, there is also an observation deck where you can overlook the snowy mountain scenery, play sledding, participate in the Snow Monster Parade, and more.
The ski season in Shiga Kogen starts in mid-November and lasts until early May, but it will be adjusted according to actual snow conditions.
Shiga Kogen ski season: mid-November to early May (depending on snow conditions) Transportation: Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station for about 90 minutes, then take a bus to Shiga Kogen for about 70 minutes.
Take a side trip to see the snow monkeys | Photo by Carissa Loh
Many people who visit Shiga Kogen will also arrange to see the snow monkeys in Jigokudani Monkey Park. Located at an altitude of 850 meters, it is one of the few places in the world where you can see wild snow monkeys bathing in natural hot springs up close. It takes about 20 minutes to take the express bus from Shiga Kogen to the bus stop of the Snow Monkey Park, and then walk for about 35 minutes through the forest to reach the park.
To learn more about winter activities in Shiga Kogen, check out this online tour video from last winter.
Finally, we arrived at Dynaland in Gifu Prefecture in central Japan . Although Dynaland is not as well-known internationally as the previous ski resorts, it is family-friendly, warm, and has ski slopes that are very suitable for beginners. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Dynaland also offers snow hiking, sledding, and a snow play area designed specifically for children and families, so that everyone can have fun playing in the snow.
Whether you want to introduce your kids to the joys of skiing or are looking for a relaxing winter getaway, Dynaland combines family-friendly facilities and a variety of activities for a great family trip to the Midlands.
Dynaland’s ski season usually runs from mid-December to early April, but this may change depending on snow conditions.
Dynaland ski season: mid-December to early April (depending on snow conditions) Transportation: Take a shuttle bus from Hikino Kogen Bus Station to Dynaland. It takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes to take a bus from Nagoya Station to Hikino Kogen Bus Station, and it also takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes to take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagoya Station.
Extra: Hakuba Valley | Nagano Prefecture
Hakuba is home to many of Japan’s highest peaks｜Photo: photoAC
Finally, I would like to recommend the sixth ski resort: Hakuba Valley in Nagano Prefecture. Located at the foot of one of the tallest mountains in Japan, Hakuba Valley consists of 10 ski resorts and is often referred to as “Hakuba” . With its beautiful powder snow, it has always been a popular destination for winter tourism. Since the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, which hosted some events here, Hakuba’s international reputation has increased significantly, making it a favorite of foreign skiers.
Hakuba is also very convenient for transportation. During the winter, there are direct buses from Shinjuku and Narita Airport. There are many international tourists here, so many local stores provide English services. The international atmosphere, English-speaking staff and English signs make it easy and comfortable for foreign tourists to have fun in Hakuba.
Photo: photoAC
Hakuba Valley has a variety of terrains to suit skiers of all levels. From gentle slopes for beginners to off-piste and non-standardized trails for advanced skiers, Hakuba guarantees you a diverse and exciting skiing experience!
The ski season in HAKUBA VALLEY usually lasts from early December to early May, but it varies depending on snow conditions.
Hakuba Ski Season: Early December to early May (depending on snow conditions) Transportation: Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station for about 90 minutes, then take a bus to Hakuba for about 60 minutes.
JAPAN RAIL CLUB December limited winter delicacy—Merry Christmas “Tachibana”!
After seeing so many great skiing destinations outside of Hokkaido, it’s time to dress warmly and head to Japan’s ski resorts for a winter adventure! Speaking of “dress warmly”, here’s a winter-exclusive citrus + seafood dessert combo that will remind you of the atmosphere of winter in Japan.
JAPAN RAIL CLUB ‘s December OMIYAGE dessert gift box launches Christmas “Orange” happiness ! After enjoying the thrill of skiing, awaken your taste buds with the refreshing taste of winter citrus such as yuzu and mandarin orange . This gift box is only available in December. Join JAPAN RAIL CLUB’s dessert subscription plan now and give the delicious Japanese winter to your loved ones! Enter the limited-time discount code “CITRUSOFF12” to enjoy the subscription discount! I wish you all a refreshing and happy ski season!
Carissa Loh
An avid traveller fond of solo adventures, Carissa (@ciramissa) has ventured to Japan 50+ times and explored all its 47 prefectures, yet she never runs out of reasons to return. An engineering major, her decade of experience in the tourism industry was inspired by volunteering for the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake and Tsunami. While the nature-rich Eastern Japan has become her most-visited destination, she also delights in discovering charming, lesser-known towns across the country.
A railway enthusiast and hiking aficionado, Carissa dreams of riding all of Japan’s sightseeing train and climbing all its 100 Famous Mountains. Sounds like a lofty goal? Check back in 50 years.
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