Last Updated on January 6, 2021 by Dawn Head
Skiing in Japan – If you want to experience some of the best snow and winter action in the world, you should really get out there and ski Japan.
Japan is a mountainous nation with tons of opportunities for skiing aficionados. Whether you love shredding up the hills or ripping through the powder, Japan has something for you.
Guide To Skiing In Japan
Is It Expensive To Ski In Japan?
It’s not more expensive to ski Japan as opposed to skiing in other countries. The pricing is basically the same as it would be in the United States or Europe.
You’ll need to either rent or bring your own gear and buy lift passes. Many places will allow you to rent equipment on-site, and rentals will generally run you about $70 for a full day.
This price includes poles, skis, and boots. Similarly, you’ll pay roughly $70 for an all-day lift pass.
Japan’s mountains are no joke, so novice skiers will want to get at least a few lessons before they hit the slopes. Depending on where you go, lessons will cost between $50 to $100.
Where Can You Go Skiing In Japan
There are plenty of places to find epic skiing in the country. Most of them are in close proximity to resorts or other accommodations.
Ski in Myoko
Myoko is a medium-sized city that caters to high-end tourists.
The slopes in Myoko are considered to be a little more technical than in other areas, so it’s a good spot for more advanced skiers to test their skills in Japan.
Furano Skiing
During the spring and summer months, Furano is awash in lavender and beautiful flowers.
In the winter, it’s one of the premier spots to visit a posh Japanese resort and get some quality skiing in. Skiers of all levels will enjoy their time in Furano. Also, the views from this lovely Japanese city are astounding.
Skiing in Asahidake
Asahidake is famous for its mammoth peak, Mount Asahi. The volcanic activity in Asahidake makes it an ideal spot for those looking to head out and hit the slopes.
There are plenty of different trails and peaks in Asahidake for all levels of skiers.
When Can You Ski In Japan?
Ski season in Japan runs between November and May, depending on the region.
Each place is different, and the quality of the snow will depend on the altitude and latitude of the city. If you’re planning on heading to Japan for some skiing, check the resort and location before you make reservations and buy airfare.
Where Is The Best Powder Skiing In Japan?
Japan skiing powder is some of the best. There are two destinations where you will be in powdery heaven and really enjoy Japanese powder skiing.
Visit one of these two places, and you’re bound to have a fantastic time on your Japanese vacation.
Hakuba Valley
Skiing in the Hakuba Valley area is the best place to find excellent power in Japan. It’s located high up in the Japanese Alps and boasts tons of winter sport activities. With panaromamic views of the Northern Alps, there are slopes for beginners as well as experienced skiers. There are a variety of courses and runs for everyone, including families.
A beginner slope to ski is Panorama with a maximum 18 degree slope gradient. The course is 850m.
Intermediate skiers should ski Grand Prix. It’s Goryu’s largest run. They offer mogul and powder runs. The max slope gradient is 21 degrees on average.
You can ski, snowboard, snowshoe, or hike in Hakuba. It’s a nature lover’s paradise.
It’s also relatively close to get to, as it’s near the large city of Nagano.
We recommend the Karuizawa Prince Hotel East. It’s in the Kitasaku District and is near the slopes. It offers ski in/ski out access.
Visit Hakuba, and you will not be disappointed.
Niseko
Another fabulous place to ski in powdery glory is Niseko. This town is located on Hokkaido Island and is full of incredible slopes for every fitness level. Snowboarding in Japan is also popular.
Visiting Niseko Japan for skiing is also a great place to check out some of Japan’s legendary hot springs. You can get the best of both worlds, fire, and ice, in Niseko.
What Months Can You Ski In Japan?
You can technically ski in Japan between November and May, but peak season is between December and April.
In some places in Japan, ski season ends in March, so always check before you schedule your vacation.
Since snowfall and temperature varies so much in Japan, you’re best looking into particular areas. If you want to avoid the bulk of the tourists, travel on the fringes of the season.
November and April or May see far fewer tourists than December and February.
Prices might be lower during those months as well, and you could even buy some cheaper ski equipment while visiting the country. Whenever you’re considering traveling overseas, it’s important to book several months in advance.
As you get closer to your vacation date, prices will skyrocket. Use an app like Hopper or Google Flights to check the status of your tickets and book when the price dips.
When Is the Best Time to Ski in Japan?
If you are looking for powder snow, travel to Japan between January and February. Hakuba is ideal in late winter, although the resorts will be packed at that time of year.
March tends to be sunnier, and the temperatures are a little bit lower. If you’re craving a more comfortable skiing experience, early spring might be best for you.
Realistically, the best time to ski in Japan comes down to what matters most to you.
If you want to avoid the crowds, travel at the beginning or at the end of the season for the least crowded resorts and queues.
Traveling off-season will also save you some money on airline tickets and hotel fare.
Generally, resorts will raise their rates during the peak season and drop them when the tourists trickle off. If you’re strategic, you might be able to get some really amazing deals.
If great snow and cold conditions are essential to you, and if you have a short vacation where you can’t afford to miss a day out on the slopes, travel during the busy season.
The deep heart of winter is the best time for true snow lovers to visit the island nation of Japan. Japan is one of the best places in the world to find some incredible skiing.
Next time you want to take an excellent wintertime trip think outside the box. Forget Aspen or Switzerland and think about skiing in Japan. With the many Japanese ski resorts, you can enjoy the gently sloping peaks and Japan snow instead.
Related content: Perfect Locations For A Nature Inspired Vacation