Discover Japan’s finest ski destinations

With Japan reopening in time for this winter’s ski season, the question we often get asked is ‘Where do I go for the best skiing in Japan?’

The answer really depends on what else you’re after from your Japanese vacation, with something like over 450 different ski areas across the nation, Japan’s alps have something for every powder hound.

Here are our Top 5 ski destinations in Japan

1. Hakuba Valley

Located in northwestern Nagano on the main island of Honshu, Hakuba Valley is a picture-perfect ski destination with some of the best ski slopes in Japan. Ski out directly from your luxury villa or chalet accommodation and marvel at the break taking snow-capped mountain views.

Host to the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, the main and largest ski area is Happo-one offering world class facilities and abundant snowfall. With 10 different Snow Resorts offering gentle groomed runs to 8km long cruising courses, Hakuba Valley offers something for everyone.  

We recommend staying at: One of the stunning properties that are part of the Hakuba Hotel Group. The ROKA Penthouse and apartments have some of the best views in the valley while the Phoniex One Chalet will have you positioned on one of the most envious ski-in and ski-out locations on the mountain.

2. Niseko

What could be finer than a ski holiday in arguable the most famous of Japan’s ski destinations Niseko. Located on the northern island prefecture of Hokkaido, a two hour drive from Sapporo, it is comprised or 4 interlinked ski resorts.

Renowned for the best power snow throughout winter, Niesko is famous for its wide-open powder bowls, tree runs and views of Mt Yotei. It’s also where you will find a plethora of the ritziest hotels, top Michelin star restaurants and exceptional bars and eateries.

We recommend staying at: Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve if it’s the full five-star luxury hotel experience you are after. Here you will find indulgent pampering in some of the best Onsen (hot springs).

3. Rusutsu

Located in Hokkaido Japan a 90-minute drive from Sapporo is Rusutsu, home to 3 peaks and 37 ski runs connected by gondolas and lifts, ranging from gentle wide slopes to some of the most challenging runs that will satisfy even the most advanced skier.

Here you will find some of the deepest and driest power in the world alongside the only professionally guided Heli-skiing in Japan.  Take a Heli-ski tour from the top of Mr. Shiribetsu where an experienced guide will have you carving up the mountain on your snowboard or skis.

Other winter activities you will find on Rusutsu include snowmobile rides, snow rafting, dog sledding, horse riding, ice fishing and helicopter scenic sightseeing flights. Plenty to do for all the family.

We recommend staying at: The Westin Rusutsu Resort with those ‘heavenly beds’ which are just what you will need after an action-packed day on the mountain.

4. Furano

Furano Japan is a fantastic all-rounder destination with ski and snowboard terrain for all ability levels. Located in central Hokkaido wonderful central location has seen it affectionally dubbed the “bellybutton of Hokkaido”.

Its central location makes Furano a perfect destination for advanced power hounds looking to access nearby backcountry areas such as Furano-dake and Tokachidake. Furano receives 9 metres of snow per season on average. Its light, fluffy, good quality powder is just delightful, and the snow can often be knee and waist deep with the added bonus of more blue sky days than many other ski locations.

We recommend staying at: One of the two 4 star properties either the New Furano Prince Hotel or La Vista Furano Hot Springs Hotel.

5. Nozawa Onsen Village

This charming and traditional hot springs village is located just one hours drive Nagano City at the foot of the Kenashi-yama Mountain. If you after snow but a richer cultural and historical experience, then this is the destination for you.

Take a deep soak in the Onsen (Japanese hot springs) which date back to the 8^th centaury. Explore traditional architecture, temples, shrines, and experience the Dosoujinn Fire Festival which happens in early January.

The ski resort has over fifty kilometres of trails spanning across three main areas offering plenty of terrain to explore. There are plenty of family friendly wide-open pistes, difficult mogul runs and a great terrain park with jumps, rails and pipe to get the adrenalin pumping.

We recommend staying at: Ryokan Sakaya one of the many boutique Japanese Inns. Accommodation in Nozawa is more traditional in its Japanese style which is part of the charm.

Getting you there

Ask the Apex Travel team about designing your Japanese ski trip. We know all the best places to stay for the ultimate snowboarding and skiing experience. Click on Contact Us below to submit your enquiry.