Whilst Japan may not necessarily be at the forefront of the mind when planning a classic winter ski holiday, this thrilling destination offers a world-class and inimitable ski experience for those in the know. Japan’s topography and unique climatic influences deliver a glorious (and dependable) 15 metres of inviting powder snow on average each season, with a wealth of slopes and superb resorts catering to all abilities. Round off your days with a soothing soak in a traditional onsen, followed by a tasty bowl of steaming ramen, and you’ll soon discover there’s nothing else quite like skiing in the Land of the Rising Sun.
BEST TIME TO SKI IN JAPAN
With snowfall more predictable and consistent than many European ski hotspots, visits to Japan from mid-December right through to the end of February usually offer prime conditions for a skiing holiday. The season continues throughout March in many places, with plenty of clear, sunny days still to be enjoyed – and often fewer crowds.
BEST PLACES TO SKI IN JAPAN
Niseko
Lauded as the powder capital of the world and offering the widest range of top-class ski resorts, Niseko is difficult to beat for those wishing to take to the slopes in Japan. Located on the northern island of Hokkaido, a collection of adjoining resorts in Niseko sprawl out from the summit of Mount Niseko Annapuri, offering slopes to suit all abilities from gentle beginners’ areas to thrilling long, steep runs, terrain parks with jumps and slaloms as well as pristine, off-piste backcountry havens. All of main ski areas can be accessed with the same ‘Niseko United’ ski pass and, whichever area you choose to spend your time, you will be blessed with magical views of volcanic Mount Yotei’s magical cone, as well as 15 metres of consistent powder snow each season.
Furano
Those seeking a more low-key introduction to Hokkaido’s world-class ski scene may wish to consider the central region of Furano. Historically more popular with the domestic market, the two interconnected ski zones here comprise a total of 28 beautiful runs with softer snow than Niseko and a great choice of gentler runs. This, combined with a more sedate après scene, make Furano a particularly popular choice for families. Those seeking a dose of adrenaline can still find their fix in Furano, however, with some thrilling off-piste opportunities awaiting discovery.
Hakuba
Though Hokkaido island receives much of the glory, Honshu should not be overlooked for those seeking fabulous skiing within easy access of some of Japan’s most exciting places to visit. One of the host venues for the 1998 Winter Olympics, the town of Hakuba is encircled by the dramatic peaks of the Japan Alps and boasts some superb resorts offering access to some of the best ski runs on the mainland. Nagano is the closest hub city to the slopes of Hakuba, and is an easy two-hour bullet train (shinkansen) ride from Tokyo.
Shiga Kogen
The other prime venue for skiing on Honshu island is Shiga Kogen. Early snowfalls across this vast region make Shiga Kogen a popular choice for skiiers and snowboarders alike, while the draw of nearby Nagano’s bathing snow monkeys make it hard to resist for first-time visitors to Japan. Those spending time in this region may also wish to pay a visit to Nozawa Onsen, which offers a truly authentic Japanese ski experience as well as a plethora of characterful onsen hot springs. Travel time is just 90 minutes by bullet train from Tokyo followed by a short shuttle bus.
