Best Japan Ski Resorts & Tips to Plan Your Next Winter Adventure
When it comes to Japan's ski season, it's a blend of great snow, warm hospitality, exquisite cuisine, refreshing hot springs, and rich culture. This unique fusion is what sets Japan apart as an amazing winter sports destination.
Picture this: after an exhilarating day shredding powder on the slopes, you unwind with après-ski drinks. Then, you immerse yourself in the soothing embrace of an Onsen or hot spring.
Following that, you indulge in a steaming bowl of delicious ramen, and the night takes an adventurous turn with some late-night karaoke. It's an ideal winter experience, don't you think? We certainly do!
But knowing where to go, when to go, and what to expect for the Japan ski season can be a bit confusing, so we’ve done the hard work for you. Here's all you need to know for your Japan ski trip!
Shirakawago Winter Light-Up 2025
The dates for the 39th Shirakawago Light Up event have just been announced! You'll want to book your slots as soon as they're open cause they run out quickly!
To avoid overcrowding in the village, only visitors with reservations are allowed in. Here are some of the tours you can expect:
🗓️ Shirakawa-go Light Up Event Dates for 2025:
- 13, 19, 26 January 2025, 5:30pm to 7:30pm
- 2 February 2025, 5:30pm to 7:30pm
Why ski in Japan?
One word: pow. Pow is a short-form slang for powder — and Japan is known to have an abundance of quality pow. It’s said that the snow in Japan contains a mere 8% moisture, making it delightfully light and dry.
The high amounts of snow come from cold winds in Siberia, which carry moisture over the sea of Japan to inland areas. This makes for optimum skiing and snowboarding conditions, giving the sensation of flying or floating through the snow.
Chase snowflakes and revel in Niseko’s snowy charm! Credits: Hamish Duncan on Unsplash
There’s something for everyone: the various ski courses range in difficulty, catering for beginners, intermediate skiers, and advanced pros. Japan is especially known for backcountry or forest skiing too, which are best done with a guide.
Even better, many resorts offer night skiing, allowing one to have the experience of zooming down illuminated slopes.
Fun fact: Skiing is so ingrained into Japanese culture that in certain places like Niigata, the sport is included in the curriculum of high schools!
When to ski in Japan?
Ski resorts usually open their doors in December, with the season lasting all the way to March, April, or May.
This depends on whether the resort has natural or artificial snow (or a combination of both). Resorts that use state-of-the-art artificial snow machines tend to open in mid-November, perfect for those who can’t wait to get started.
Skiing with your loved ones is the best experience! Image credits to Krizelle Zhaye
Opening dates also vary based on location. For example, Hokkaido is at a higher altitude than Tokyo, and will naturally receive snow earlier. As a general rule of thumb, the Japan ski season will peak from mid-January to late February.
This time also coincides with tons of exciting festivals, such as the Sapporo Snow Festival and the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival. Certain resorts, like Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, also have an Ice Village, complete with a church and bar made entirely out of ice. Read all about Japan's winter festivals and activities here!
That being said, the Christmas and New Year’s periods, and the beginning of February typically see the most crowds. Weather-wise, check SnowJapan’s website for daily updates on weather and snow conditions across the country.
How cold is the Japanese ski season?
Image credit: Kiroro Resort on Facebook
No matter where you go for a ski season, temperatures are always going to be chilly! Japan's northernmost island or northern part of the country, like Hokkaido, Yamagata, and Aomori, can drop to a low of -20 up to about +2 or 3 degrees.
Meanwhile, resorts near Nagano and Niigata offer a slightly milder climate, ranging from -10 to +5 degrees. Japan skiing season is famous for its epic snow dumps and icy coolness, making it perfect for your snow gate away, so be sure to pack your arsenal of beanies, gloves, waterproof jackets, and thermals – you'll need 'em!
Where to ski in Japan?
#respectthesend. Image credit: @supermeinc_new on Instagram
You’ll be spoiled for choice with over 500 ski resorts! Most people flock to Hokkaido for some action, but there are also ski resorts that can be easily reached from the tourist hotspots of Tokyo and Osaka.
If you’re keen on a Japan snow season but not sure where to go, don’t worry. We've done the legwork and uncovered the top ski resorts in Japan, so you can spend less time plotting and more time shredding!
Best Ski Resorts in Hokkaido
Niseko Ski Resort
Niseko is probably Hokkaido’s most popular ski destination, boasting four interlinked resorts. The Grand Hirafu is the most popular of the lot, with its own Hirafu Village that’s full of restaurants, bars, shops, and the like. One of the best things to do here is to take a private ski or snowboard lesson, as many instructors are fluent in English.
![[usxanz] Niseko Ski Resort](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/fl_lossy.progressive,q_85/c_fill,w_550,h_356/v1729745916/vy5fpyqokrmk8nwzizuk.jpg)
Hoshino Resorts Tomamu
Hoshino Resorts Tomamu is a fabulous family-friendly resort, offering many gentle slopes that are suitable for children. Advanced skiers can test their skills at the terrain park, whilst the little ones will also love the dedicated kids’ park. Check out the beautiful Ice Village whilst you’re there, which is home to a church, shop, and bar made entirely out of ice.
Rusutsu Ski Resort
Sprawling across three mountains, Rusutsu Ski Resort has a variety of ski courses that are suitable for both expert and beginner skiers. Try out the longest run at 3.5 kilometres long, topped off by an exhilarating backcountry trail. There’s so much to do here: dog sledding, ice fishing, plus even a game arcade and indoor wave pool.
Check out more ski resorts in Hokkaido:
Best Ski Resorts Near Tokyo
Gala Yuzawa
Gala Yuzawa is one of the easiest ski resorts to get to from Tokyo, as it has its own shinkansen station. Explore 17 ski trails across three fields: Gala Yuzawa (the largest of the three), Yuzawa Kogen, and Ichouchi Maruyama. And yes, all three come with scenic views to boot! The trails vary in difficulty; if you prefer a little guidance, sign up for a private ski or snowboard lesson.
Fujiyama Snow Resort
Ski against the magnificent backdrop of Mt. Fuji at Fujiyama Snow Resort, which is located at the second station of Mt. Fuji. It’s the earliest resort to open the ski season, with four different slopes for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy. The resort is easily reached on a day trip from Tokyo, and is located close to Gotemba Premium Shopping Outlets.
Norn Minakami Ski Resort
Norn Minakami Ski Resort is another great family-friendly option, offering ski lessons for children 3 years old and above. The little ones will especially love the Norn Minakami Play Land, which comes complete with trampolines, snowball-making kits and more. That’s not all: the ski resort stays open until 10pm (and 12am on weekends and days before public holidays) for night skiing.
Check out more ski resorts near Tokyo:
Best Ski Resorts Near Osaka
Mt. Rokko Snow Park
First-time skiing? Make Mt. Rokko Snow Park your first stop. Offering gentle, wide, and smooth slopes, the resort is perfect for the whole family. In fact, there’s even a special cordoned-off practice area for beginners to figure the sport out at their own pace. It’s a little tricky to get to Mt. Rokko on your own — we recommend taking a day tour from Osaka to save yourself the planning headache.
Biwako Valley Ski Resort
Biwako Valley Ski Resort combines artificial snow from a world-class snow machine with natural snow to guarantee fantastic ski conditions throughout the season. The resort brings skiing with a view to another level, where you can gaze upon splendid views of Lake Biwa from the Horai Panorama Ski Slope. The resort also has a half-pipe and forest routes, which draw thrillseekers from all over the world.
Hakodateyama Ski Resort
Hakodateyama Ski Resort specialises in being a beginner-friendly ski resort, with most of its ten ski courses targeting beginner skiers. Get your day sorted in a snap with this all-inclusive package that offers round-trip bus transport from Osaka, ski equipment and suit rental, plus a lesson (in English, Chinese, or Cantonese) to sweeten the deal.
Check out more ski resorts near Osaka:
Looking for the best skiing classes?
Are you in search of the finest skiing classes to kickstart your snowy adventure? If you're new to skiing, fear not - we're here to support you every step of the way!
We understand that skiing can seem a tad daunting, especially for first-timers. However, it's an exhilarating experience that should find its place on everyone's bucket list.
Zuppp - skiing through the white snow! Image credits to Grace
For those arriving from tropical countries in Southeast Asia, Africa, or South America, encountering snow for the first time can be a surreal experience. The sensation of stepping onto those pristine white powdery slopes might feel a bit unusual.
But fret not because we've compiled a list of top-notch ski classes with great deals tailored just for you, ensuring that your skiing journey gets off to the perfect start!
1. Kamui Ski Links Small Class Ski Lesson in Asahikawa from Sapporo
If you are a Chinese-speaking visitor, this is perfect for you! This class is organized in a small group session. So, no need to worry about being left out. You can get the best personalised attention.
2. Niigata NASPA Ski Garden Small Class Ski Lesson from Tokyo
This is another Chinese-speaking class suitable for you! The ski classes are led by certified instructors who specialize in teaching beginners. They'll patiently guide you through the basics, helping you gain confidence with each lesson.
3. Sapporo International Ski Resort Private Ski Lesson in Hokkaido
For non-Chinese speakers, this class supports multi-lingual teaching and has a variety of courses of different levels for you to choose from. The instructors will walk you through all safety measures and equipment usage so you can hit the slopes with peace of mind.
4. Hokkaido Sapporo Teine Private Ski Lessons
If you are looking for a private lesson, this class is for you! With the focus being on individual progression, the classes are structured to gradually advance your skills, helping you become a proficient skier in no time.
5. Snowshoeing & Snow Surfing Experience in Gunma
Planning a family ski trip? This class caters to all ages, making it the perfect opportunity for a memorable family adventure. Bond over the joy of learning to ski together.
6. Private Ski Lesson in Furano
These classes take place in some of the most picturesque ski resorts, offering stunning views to enhance your experience. After skiing at night, you can also experience the beautiful Forest Elf Terrace.
7. Noboribetsu Sanlaiva Ski Resort Combo Ticket in Hokkaido
If you're unfamiliar with ski gear, don't worry! The experienced team will provide guidance on choosing the right equipment, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable skiing experience. Enjoy 7 hours of usage for snow shoes, snowboard, ski pole, ski sled, ski clothes, and more. The ski area around the Resort is also conveniently located near various onsen hotels and transport stations.
8. Nagano｜Private Ski Instructor Lessons
The courses are taught by professional coaches with many years of experience so that everyone can learn comprehensively and play with peace of mind.
So, if you're ready to embrace the thrill of skiing and create unforgettable memories in the snow, these ski classes are the perfect starting point. Get ready to carve up the slopes with confidence, and remember, your skiing adventure begins here! 🎿❄️🏔️
Don't miss these winter activities for your Japan itinerary! 🗻
Activities
✨ Hokkaido
✨ Gifu
Shirakawago Light-up Event only happens 6 days in a year, so be sure to book early!
✨ Mt. Fuji
🚌 Ski Resort Transfers⛷️
Looking for other exciting activities while in Japan?
Absolutely, other than skiing in Japan, the nation offers a wide array of other exciting activities.
Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea
It was fun, fun, fun! Image credits to Joyce
If you're a fan of all things Disney, a visit to Tokyo Disneyland and its sister park, Tokyo DisneySea, is a must. From classic Disney rides to unique attractions, parades, and a magical atmosphere, it's a fun-filled adventure for visitors of all ages. Have you ever visited Disneyland during the winter months?
Universal Studios Japan (USJ)
Imagine being in a video game, but everything is huge! Image credits to Pan
Located in Osaka, Universal Studios Japan is famous for its thrilling rides and attractions, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. You can explore the Hogwarts Castle, enjoy butterbeer, and experience the magic of the Harry Potter universe.
Kyoto's Cultural Heritage
Beautifully built shrine, like a real-life anime film. Image credits to Lee
Explore Japanese culture by visiting Kyoto's historic temples, shrines, and traditional tea houses. Don't miss the stunning Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates.
Onsen (Hot Springs) Experience
The best Onsen experience in the one you go after a tiring day. Image credits to Stephen
Relax in one of Japan's many onsen (hot springs) resorts. Beppu, in particular, is famous for its hot springs and "hells" (multi-colored volcanic pools).
Japan offers something for every traveler, whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or pure entertainment. Enjoy your trip!
🍣 Japan Essentials🍣
🚅Trains & Airport Transfers
📌Mobile Data & Metro Passes
Shop the Article
Related Articles
What is Klook?
Klook is a world-leading travel activities and services booking platform, covering over 400 destinations and over 100,000 travel services! Klook’s mission is to empower travelers around the world to discover, book, and experience the best things to do anywhere, anytime - including attractions, activities, car rental, tours, local transfers, wifi, and SIM cards.
✨ Follow us for more deals and inspiration for your upcoming travels
