- Life & Culture
Japan Ski Season 2025-26: Top Resorts & Winter Sports
If you love skiing, snowboarding and winter sports in general, skiing in Japan is probably already near the top of your bucket list.
With over 500 ski resorts in Japan. That’s more than any other country in the world; it’s no surprise, considering nearly 70% of the country is mountainous terrain.
During the Japanese ski season, you’ll enjoy world-renowned powder, breathtaking views, and tree lines that make experiences on the slopes unforgettable, whether you’re into skiing or snowboarding.
After a day in the snow, unwind in the traditional Japanese Onsen, relaxing hot springs. Then refuel with some of the incredible food Japan is famous for.
Thinking about working in Japan? You’ll find some great information in this post that covers the best skiing in Japan, top resorts and other winter sports to try during the 2025-26 season, including cultural experiences tied to the legacy of the Japan Winter Olympics.
Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about skiing and snowboarding in Japan, and the best time to visit.
Snow Conditions in Japan
Japan gets some of the most snow in the world because of its location. It’s famous for having some of the deepest, driest, lightest, loveliest powder snow on the planet.
You don’t need to worry about lack of snow when snowboarding or skiing in Japan. The country gets some of the most snow in the world.
With frequent downfalls of ideal powder during the Japanese ski season, it’s the place to be if you love riding deep, snowy lines.
As cold winds travel across the Sea of Japan from Siberia to Japan, they collect an incredible amount of moisture, which is then released on the Japanese islands as a blanket of magical powdery snow. This natural formation has helped transform Japan into a world-renowned destination for winter sports.
But it’s not just backcountry enthusiasts who are drawn to its slopes. Japan is home to hundreds of remarkable resorts, with perfectly maintained pistes and first-class facilities.
These factors have also played a role in Japan’s impressive track record in international winter sports events, including the Winter Olympics. In fact, Japan has hosted the games twice, first in Sapporo in 1972 and later in Nagano in 1998. Each time showcasing traditions, hospitality and winter sport excellence.
Best Time To Ski In Japan
The ski season in Japan runs from mid-December to early April. There are some resorts where it lasts longer than this, though. If you are going exclusively for Japan’s powder, or ‘Japow’, January is the best time to go.
Christmas and New Year are times to avoid. Just like in the West, these times are very popular in Japan for skiing and snowboarding. Especially with lots of Chinese tourists visiting the Japanese ski slopes for the Chinese New Year.
The prices of resorts are usually more expensive around these times, and the slopes will be busier too.
If you aren’t too fussed about the deep powder, and you want to spend a little less, the late season in early spring is a great time to visit. The late-season runs from the end of March to the end of April.
Accommodation is typically more affordable around this time, and you’ll enjoy more sun and warmer temperatures. But, the snow won’t be quite as good!
Where To Go Snowboarding & Skiing In Japan
Where is the best skiing in Japan? There are two very popular areas in the country for skiing or Snowboarding.
Hakuba is on the southern main island of Japan, just a 4-hour drive away from Tokyo. Hakuba Happoone Winter Resort was actually a host to the 1998 Winter Olympics, and some facilities are still in use. This is definitely worth checking out if you’re in the area!
Other popular resorts, including Niseko, Rusutsu, and Furano, are situated on the Northern island of Hokkaido.
Don’t forget about the smaller resorts. While they might not get as much attention, they offer quieter slopes, fewer crowds, and the chance to discover hidden gems and ski runs that you’ll love.
Best Ski Resorts In Japan
As you now know, Japan is famous for deep powder snow and amazing tree lines. We’ve put together a list of the best ski resorts in Japan based on:
- Best overall experience
- Best powder skiing
- Best tree lines.
Read these to find out about some of the best skiing in Japan.
Best Overall Japanese Ski Resorts, Pros and Cons
1. Niseko, Ski Resort
Website: https://www.niseko.ne.jp/en/niseko/
Location: Abuta District, Hokkaido
Niseko is one of the famous ski resorts in Japan due to its incredible consistently deep powder and a large ski area that expands on and off the piste. The resort caters very well to English-speaking tourists too, making it ideal for family holidays. Parents can take advantage of reliable childcare services and book lessons with ski/snowboard instructors before hitting the slopes.
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Niseko Resort offers a wide variety of activities, from shopping to restaurants and exciting nightlife, designed to have something for everyone!
But it’s important to consider that when choosing a resort, due to its popularity, Niseko can get very crowded during the peak Japanese ski season, with long queues for the ski lifts!
2. Nozowa Onsen Ski Resort, Honshu
Website: https://nozawa-onsen.com/
Location: Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Honshu
Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort is often considered the birthplace of skiing in Japan. Skiing was first introduced to the area in 1912 by an Austrian man named Theodor Edler Von Lerch. He was visiting the country to help and study the Japanese army.
Since then, it has become a thriving ski resort. It’s a beautiful place to visit, full of traditional Japanese architecture and culture. The nightlife is quite good too.
With lots of snow and a range of impressive terrain, Nozawa Onsen is another one of the most popular ski resorts in Japan.
It’s quite a big resort for Japan, with 50km of slopes to keep you entertained, and it’s close to a few other good resorts, including Togari Onsen and Madarao Tangram, which you can check out whilst you’re in the area.
3. Furano Ski Resort
Website: https://www.princehotels.com/en/ski/furano/resort.html
Location: Nakagoryo, Furano, Hokkaido.
The Furano ski resort is a lovely, authentic Japanese ski resort in Hokkaido. With lots of on-piste riding, the ski resort is ideal for beginners all the way through to advanced skiers and snowboarders.
Whilst many ski resorts in Japan struggle to keep the interest of advanced skiers and snowboarders, Furano has enough exciting runs and features to keep you occupied for a good couple of weeks.
In addition to excellent skiing, the resort has a wide variety of Japanese restaurants. While it may not get as much snowfall as some other areas, it’s commonly waist–deep, and you’re more likely to experience clearer skies and better weather conditions.
Best Japanese Ski Resorts For Powder Snow
1. Tanigawadake Tenjindaira Ski Resort, Honshu
Website: https://www.tanigawadake-rw.com/tenjindaira/en/
Location: Mt Tanigawa
Known as Tenjin by the locals, this ski resort is famous because of the exceptional amount of snowfall it receives. With a mixture of steep and mellow terrain, uncrowded slopes and beautiful powder, Tenjin is an ideal location for advanced riders.
But it’s important to note, it isn’t the place to go for cultural experiences or apres-ski entertainment. It’s best suited if you want to visit advanced skiing and snowboarding runs, relax with a traditional Japanese onsen, and wind down with a chilled beer at your accommodation.
Be aware that conditions can be very harsh in the peak winter months, so proper preparation is essential. If you’re flexible with dates, it has one of the longest Ski seasons, running from mid-December to early April, offering plenty of opportunities to catch ideal conditions.
2. Kurodake Ski Resort, Hokkaido
Website: https://www.rinyu.co.jp/kurodake/
Location: Daisetsuzan National Park, Hokkaido
Located in the Daisetsuzan National Park, Kuradokake is another amazing spot for big mountains and fluffy powder snow. In fact, Daisetsuzan roughly translates to “big snowy mountains”.
If you love technical powder slopes, Kurodake may just be your ideal destination. With challenging slopes and often harsh weather conditions, Kurodake is one for advanced skiers only.
Just like many other advanced resorts, there isn’t much to do apart from skiing and snowboarding.
3. Minowa Ski Resort, Honshu
Website: https://snow.tohokukanko.jp/en/resorts/detail_minowa.html
Location: Mt Bandai Area, Tohoku Region, Honshu
Minowa is incredible for tree skiing, and it’s not very crowded either. Meaning there are lots of opportunities to be the first to ride the fresh powder. Located at a high altitude, there’s usually lots of great snow, and to make it even better, there’s a ski-in-out hotel that makes life comfortable.
There are lots of other resorts in the area too, so you can explore them as well if you have access to a vehicle or good transportation.
Again, this ski resort is more suited to advanced skiers rather than beginners or intermediates. English-speaking staff and ski instructors for children are quite uncommon, so it may not be the best choice for families or those new to the resort.
Best Japanese Ski Resorts For Tree Skiing
1. Rusutsu Ski Resort
Website: https://rusutsu.com/en/
Location: Rusutsu, Abuta District, Hokkaido
Rusutsu ski resort is home to spectacular powder snow, and some of the best tree skiing in the world. Off-piste and tree skiing is actually allowed too, which is great.
The lift infrastructure is ideal, and you can access many of the tree lines straight off the lifts without much effort. As well as great powder and tree skiing, the Rusutsu resort is great for skiers of all abilities.
There are plenty of on-piste runs and activities at the resort to keep you entertained.
2. Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort
Website: https://www.hgp.co.jp/cortina/ski/
Location: Otari, Kitaazumi District
The relaxed off-piste policy at Cortina is ideal for tree skiing. Home to steep runs with deep powder, you’ll experience some of the best tree riding in the world at this resort. There’s a ski-in-ski-out hotel here, too, which makes getting in and out more enjoyable.
With affordable prices, it’s great if you’re looking to spend a few days up the mountain. Complete with an excellent onsen and an outdoor section that gives a beautiful view of the ski resort.
It’s better suited if you’re looking to relax, as the actual size of the resort is fairly small and there’s not much in the way of nightlife. You’re better off visiting the larger resorts if you’re keen to experience more Japanese nightlife culture.
3. Aomori Spring Ski Resort
Website: https://aomorispring.com/
Location: Aomori, Nishitsugaru District
If you’re looking for amazing fresh powder runs in between the trees, Aomori Spring Resort is the place to visit. The snow is deep, and the runs are pretty steep. There are lots of tree lines to be had straight off the lifts or with short and long hikes.
The resort isn’t very crowded either. Meaning, you’re pretty much guaranteed to find and ride fresh lines. The area is beautiful, and you can book accommodation at the ski-in-ski-out Rockwood hotel if you’re staying in the area for a few nights.
On a nice day, you can even see the ocean from the resort, which is nice.
Aomori Spring is perfect if you’re looking for a smaller, more relaxed atmosphere with great tree lines. But due to this, there isn’t much in the way of nightlife, restaurants, or shops.
More Tips For Snowboarding & Skiing In Japan
Here are a few more tips for snowboarding and skiing in Japan to help you have a great time whilst you’re on the slopes.
Hire A Guide For A Day
If you want to make the most of your time skiing or snowboarding in Japan, it’s a great idea to hire a guide to give you an overview of the area. They’ll be able to show you the best spots and runs, as well as advice to keep you safe.
This way, you’ll make sure you don’t waste any time, when you could be riding the best powder line of your life on a different part of the mountain!
Book Your Japanese Ski Trip In Advance
Ski package deals are not as prevalent in the UK as those to closer locations in Europe. You’re unlikely to find a great, cheap last-minute deal for skiing in Japan.
Your best bet is to plan in advance to make the most of your trip. Take advantage of the early-bird discounts to get the best prices on accommodation, transport, lift passes and ski hire.
Be Prepared For Onsens
Onsens are natural hot spring baths that are plentiful in Japan due to the natural volcanic activity. You may also hear them referred to as Rotenburo, which means ‘an outdoor onsen’.
One of the most shocking things about onsens that you need to know is that clothes are not allowed. Yes, that means birthday suits only. But don’t worry, once you see how normal it is in Japanese hot spring culture, your worries will soon melt away.
Also, you probably won’t be in one for too long. The water is usually piping hot, so you won’t be able to stay in for more than half an hour comfortably. There is a little bit of onsen etiquette you should take note of before you enter one, too. We’ve written a comprehensive guide all about onsen ettiquette, and the best onsen spots, before you take a dip.
Here are some key takeaways:
- Firstly, remember to wash before you use the onsen. This helps keep the water as clean as possible for everyone.
- Also, it’s considered unhygienic to put your hair in the water, so tie it up if you have long hair.
- Another thing you should be aware of is the Japanese stigma around tattoos and water. You may not be allowed in a public body of water with tattoos. This is because they carry associations with Yakuza.
- Plus, try not to be too loud. Onsens are meant to be relaxing places. The atmosphere is like that of a spa.
Other Japanese Winter Sports You Can Try
There are lots of winter sports in Japan aside from skiing and snowboarding. Here are a few great ones you might want to check out on your travels.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is essentially hiking, but you wear special shoes with large surface areas that stop you from sinking into the snow.
Snowshoeing can be a great day out, and you’ll see some beautiful views of the Japanese mountain ranges. It’s definitely worth a go if you like hiking.
Ice Flow Walking
In the winter, in Hokkaido, a natural phenomenon occurs where drift ice (platforms of floating ice) covers the Sea of Okhotsk. You can book tours to walk across the floating ice! This is a completely unique experience, and you may even see marine animals like sea angels. You will be given all the equipment you need to keep you safe and make the most out of your experience! This one is definitely a top recommendation if you’re in the area.
Snowmobiling
If you like engines, you’ll probably like snowmobiling too! There are lots of places in Japan where you can hire snowmobiles and go on adventures around the beautiful mountain ranges.
You don’t need a licence either as long as you stay within certain areas, so this is one that anyone can enjoy.
Ice Skating
When it gets cold in the Japanese winter, and the water starts to freeze, the ice skates come out. Ice skating is a popular and fun winter sport in Japan.
There are many ice rinks in Japan. One of the biggest ones in the country is in Tokyo, where you can night skate against the stunning backdrop of the bustling city.
Some Japanese Ski Movies To Inspire You
If you’re not already inspired to go and take a trip over and enjoy the Japanese ski season, or you’ve got your trip planned and want to get in the mood early, watch some of these great ski movies!
You’ll get a real feel for the type of snow and resort conditions you can expect when you visit. In our list, there’s also a video of the country’s talented ski jumpers during the Japan Winter Olympics 1998 if ski jumping is something you like.
Interested in living and working in Japan?
Now you know a bit about snowboarding in Japan, skiing in Japan and other winter Sports in Japan, as well as some of the best resorts to go to, do you think you’ll visit?
If you’re interested in working in Japan, consider applying to be an ALT with us here at Interac. We provide an excellent opportunity to explore Japan, while earning a living enriching the lives of young people through language and education — and we’d love for you to join the community.