When people think of skiing in Japan, most immediately picture the fluffy snow of Hokkaido or the snow-capped mountains near Tokyo. However, Osaka offers its own unique and enchanting skiing experience. Famous for its rich culture and delicious food, Osaka is also conveniently located near several top-quality ski resorts. During the winter season, these resorts are blanketed in snow, making them a paradise for ski enthusiasts.
Whether you’re traveling from Tokyo via bullet train or heading down from Hokkaido, Osaka provides a fantastic opportunity to experience Japan’s diverse skiing destinations. The ski resorts near Osaka cater to skiers of all levels, from beginners to experts, with modern facilities and professional instructors to ensure both safety and enjoyment.
Recommended 3-Day Osaka Ski Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Acclimation
To make the most of your trip, choose a flight that'll arrive in Osaka by the afternoon. After checking into your hotel, we recommend exploring the city first. Osaka’s vibrant charms will surely give you an energy boost, and a stroll around town will help you adapt to the local climate. Don't forget to end your first day in Osaka with a delicious meal.
For a hassle-free day of adventure, check out the Osaka Amazing Pass. Not only will you get unlimited subway, tramway, and bus trips, you'll also have access to about 40 of Osaka's most popular attractions!
Day 2: Mt. Rokko Snow Park
On your second day, head to Mt. Rokko Snow Park to kick off your ski trip. This resort has slopes for all levels, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skier. You can rent your ski gear on-site and take lessons from professional instructors. After you've conquered the slopes, pop by a nearby hot spring resort to unwind and experience traditional Japanese onsen culture.
Day 3: Adventure at Mt. Ikoma
Mt. Ikoma Ski Resort is relatively close to Osaka city. It's perfect for skiers looking for adventure, offering not only great skiing experience but also natural scenic views of Mt. Ikoma. Afterwards, you can head back to Osaka to explore the city’s bustling shopping districts or sample on some delicious street food for lunch.
With this 3-day Osaka ski trip, you’ll experience the excitement of skiing along with Japan’s rich culture and cuisine. Whether you’re a ski enthusiast or a traveller seeking a new winter experience, a visit to the ski resorts near Osaka will make for unforgettable adventure.
Best Ski Resorts Near Osaka
As winter approaches, many adventure seekers are on the lookout for new skiing destinations. Ski resorts near Osaka are becoming a popular choice, offering a perfect balance of accessibility and great ski conditions. Here are some of the best ski resorts near Osaka:
Ski resort | Location | Elevation | Features | Season | Ticket Price | Distance from Osaka | Driving time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mt. Rokko Snow Park | Mt. Rokko, near Kobe City | 931 meters | Family-friendly, beginner slopes, night skiing, scenic views | December - March | About 4,000 JYP (day pass) | About 30km | 40-50 minutes |
Mt. Ikoma Ski Resort | Mt. Ikoma, Nara prefecture | 642 meters | Family-friendly, beginner slopes, scenic views | December - February | About 3,000 JYP (day pass) | About 20km | 30-40 minutes |
Biwako Valley Ski Resort | Mt. Hira, Shiga prefecture | 1,100 meters | Suitable for all levels, variety of slopes, views of Lake Biwa | December - late March | About 4,500 JYP (day pass) | About 70km | 1.5 hours |
Hakuba Ski Resort | Hakuba, Nagano prefecture | 1,831 meters | International-class ski resort, large ski areas, ideal for advanced skiers | December - April | About 5,000-7,000 JPY (day pass) | About 350km | 4-5 hours |
Accommodation Near Osaka Ski Resorts
A great ski trip is not just about the resorts and the snow. It also includes a comfortable place to rest after a day whizzing down the slopes. Whether you're looking for a peaceful natural setting or want to experience traditional Japanese accommodation, these accommodation options near Osaka will have you covered. Here are some of out top recommendations for accommodation options near Osaka ski resorts:
1. Arima Onsen Taketoritei Maruyama
Arima Onsen Taketoritei Maruyama is a well-known ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) that's just a 10 minute walk away from Arima Onsen, a famous hot spring area near Kobe. The hotel offers a blend of traditional Japanese hospitality and modern amenities, making it a popular choice for visitors seeking relaxation and an authentic onsen experience. Here, you can opt for the open-air hot springs or the private indoor hot springs.
2. Tocen Goshoboh
Established in the 12th century, this historical ryokan has been beloved by famous Japanese writers, and is known for its serene atmosphere and high-quality onsen facilities. Tocen Goshoboh boasts several onsen baths, including both indoor and outdoor options. The rooms feature traditional Japanese design, with tatami flooring and futon bedding. Some rooms may also come with a private onsen bath!
3. Hotel Hanakoyado
Hotel Hanakoyado features both indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, allowing guests to relax in the mineral-rich waters. The outdoor baths often provide beautiful views of the surrounding nature, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere. It's also located just a 6-minute walk from Arima Onsen Station.
Getting to Osaka’s Ski Resorts
For ski enthusiasts who are planning a trip to Osaka’s nearby ski resorts, it’s important to know how to get there. Here are the transportation options to consider:
From Osaka to Ski Resorts
The ski resorts near Osaka, such as Mt. Rokko and Mt. Ikoma, are located just outside the city. From central Osaka, visitors can take public transportation or drive to these resorts. For example, to reach Mt. Rokko Ski Resort, you can take a train to Kobe and then transfer to a bus that goes directly to the ski resort. The entire journey takes about an hour.
If you prefer driving, it typically takes around one hour to reach most ski resorts from Osaka. Driving gives you the flexibility to enjoy the countryside views along the way, and many ski resorts offer parking facilities.
For farther ski resorts, such as Hakuba in Nagano Prefecture, you might want to consider taking the bullet train or long-distance bus. While the travel time is longer, these options provide access to some of Japan’s most famous ski resorts, perfect for those seeking more challenging slopes.
🔍 More Ski Inspiration 🔍
What is Klook?
Klook is a world-leading travel and experiences platform, with over half a million offerings in over 2,700 destinations! Browse our growing collection of travel activities and services in 15 languages, and complete bookings seamlessly with 40 currencies and over 40 payment methods.
We're here to bring the world closer together through experiences. Whether it's something new in your neighborhood or an adventure abroad, with Klook you're always connected to a world of things to do and places to see.
Discover the latest travel deals and promotions
Select your country to unlock limited-time travel promos👇
Hello, I'm from Singapore 🇸🇬
Kamusta, I'm from the Philippines 🇵🇭
Hello, I'm from Malaysia 🇲🇾
G'Day, I'm from Australia 🇦🇺
Hello, I'm from the United States 🇺🇸
Namaste, I'm from India 🇮🇳
Hello, I'm from the United Kingdom 🇬🇧
Marhaba, I'm from the Middle East
