10 Best Ski Resorts in Japan

I am a snowboard instructor at Whistler Blackcomb in Canada. On my name tag in my chest pocket, you’ll find my name, “FUSAKI,” along with my hometown, “TOKYO.” When people notice this, I often get asked, especially by students or those I share a gondola ride with, “What are the best ski resorts in Japan?”

So, for this article, I’d like to introduce my personal recommendations for the top 10 ski resorts in Japan. However, since I’ve spent over 30 years in Whistler and rarely return to Japan during the winter, I asked a trusted friend, who is well-versed in Japanese ski resorts, to write this feature.

Katsumi Iwata is the editor-in-chief of “Snow Heaven Japan” and has been promoting the charm of Japan’s snow resorts to both domestic and international audiences. He is also involved in the broad collaboration of classic resorts, such as Nozawa Onsen, Hakuba Happo, and Myoko Akakura, through “Mt.6.” In recent years, he has been working hard to accelerate the revitalization of Japan’s snow resort regions and the promotion of winter sports, including the establishment of the “Japan Snow Sports & Resorts Association.” Iwata is deeply knowledgeable about Japan’s snow resorts and winter sports through his extensive coverage and has a network of connections with various regions and stakeholders.

I asked Iwata-san to introduce the attractions of Japan’s ski resorts and to share his top 10 recommendations.

Japan has many attractive ski resorts beyond the famous Niseko and Hakuba. I encourage you to take this opportunity to visit some of these hidden gems. With the yen being low, now is the perfect time to plan your trip to Japan!

Japan’s Ski Resorts: A Global Sensation

Currently, Japan’s snow resorts are gaining attention worldwide. The quality of Japan’s snow, particularly “powder snow,” is highly regarded in Europe, North America, and Australia. Japan is home to many unique heavy snowfall regions, which have also attracted attention from “non-snowy countries” in Asia. Japan’s snow resorts offer a combination of attractions such as “snow,” “mountains,” “hot springs,” “alcohol,” and “food.” These resorts provide much more than just skiing or snowboarding; they offer a variety of unique and extraordinary experiences. As a highlight of post-pandemic tourism in Japan, I hope this article encourages not only international visitors but also Japanese residents, who may not have been to the mountains in a while, to rediscover the allure of Japan’s snow resorts.

The high quality of Japan’s “powder snow” has already been highlighted globally from resorts like Niseko, Hakuba, and Nozawa. The ease of access from major cities, the quality and safety of the slopes, and the natural scenery—all of these elements come together to form unique assets that Japan can proudly present to the world. In recent years, as the focus has shifted from material goods to experiences, Japan’s snow resorts are attracting attention not only for skiing and snowboarding but also for snow activities, nightlife, cultural experiences, and food. These are becoming major attractions in their own right.

Japan’s Snow Scene

There are few places in the world like Japan, where snow falls every 2-3 days. It’s rare to have the luxury of playing in the light, cloud-like powder snow, an experience that is hard to find anywhere else on Earth. Japan is home to countless locations where you can enjoy this extraordinary experience. The snow sports that give you the feeling of playing in the clouds are arguably the most luxurious form of sport.

Each of Japan’s snow resorts has its own unique style and offers attractions that rival any resort worldwide. By experiencing these heavy snow regions close to metropolitan areas, foreign tourists and many Japanese people alike will rediscover the joys of winter.

As the COVID-19 pandemic subsides, interest in snow sports, particularly skiing and snowboarding, is once again rising. Snow sports that can be enjoyed by everyone in nature, as well as the snow resorts that support them, are attracting increasing attention both domestically and internationally. However, before delving into their appeal, let’s take a brief look at the history of skiing in Japan.

The History of Skiing in Japan

In 1956, the news of Chiharu Igaya winning a silver medal was a significant moment for Japan’s skiing community. That same year, Tony Sailer won a triple crown at the Cortina d’Ampezzo Olympics in Italy. The impact of this success led to a skiing boom in Japan during the 1950s, and by the 1960s, Japan became home to the world’s largest skiing population, surpassing 10 million skiers.

The Sapporo Olympics played a key role in bringing skiers from around the world to Japan, and skiing became a staple winter leisure activity. The rise of Japan as a skiing powerhouse was largely due to the high-quality snow and the easy access to ski resorts from urban areas, a contrast to cities like New York or London, where ski resorts are far away. Japan’s rich natural environment, with 70% of the country covered in forests, has contributed to the development of world-class ski resorts.

The Luxury of Powder Snow and Hot Springs

Ski resorts in Japan’s heavy snow regions enjoy powder snow that accumulates almost every week, or even every night. While such luxury can only be experienced once or twice a month in Europe, in Japan it is available much more frequently. Once you experience skiing on powder snow, you will be captivated by its unique feel.

Another essential aspect of Japan’s snow scene is the hot springs. The combination of “snow sports” and “hot springs” is a blissful experience unique to Japan. After enjoying snow sports in the cold, the opportunity to relax in a hot spring is truly exceptional.

The Appeal of Local Food and Culture

One of the joys of a snow trip in Japan is savoring the local food culture. Regional dishes, local ingredients, fresh seafood, and sake—experiences unique to each area enhance the enjoyment of snow sports. This is the true essence of “luxury” and also an opportunity to rediscover the charm of Japan’s regions through snow sports.

In conclusion, Japan’s snow sports are not just a form of leisure but a “luxurious journey” that allows you to enjoy the rich nature, beautiful snow, hot springs, and local culture. This winter, I encourage you to experience Japan’s snow scene firsthand.

10 Best Ski Resorts in Japan

1. Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort / Nagano Prefecture

In recent years, Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort has gained increasing popularity among international skiers and snowboarders. This snow resort, with a history of over 100 years, is also famous for its hot springs.

The new gondola is extremely comfortable, and the snow quality, courses, and powder are all highly satisfying. The resort enjoys frequent snowfall, making it a great destination for powder lovers. The tree run areas within the ski resort can be accessed by lifts, providing an ideal environment for powder practice.

The village at the base of the mountain is also charming, with a nostalgic hot spring town atmosphere. Visitors can relax in the natural hot spring baths while soaking in the traditional Japanese scenery that Nozawa Onsen offers.

Website: https://en.nozawaski.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nozawaski/

2. Rusutsu Resort / Hokkaido

Rusutsu Resort is a ski destination that has gained international recognition, recently winning the prestigious title of “Best Ski Resort” at the 2024 World Ski Awards. Located about 90 minutes from Sapporo and New Chitose Airport, Rusutsu Resort is an all-season resort surrounded by Shikotsu-Toya National Park. It features 37 courses spread across three mountains, with a total skiable distance of 42 km (1,378 acres), and boasts four gondolas and 14 lifts. The resort receives an average of 14 meters of snowfall annually, ensuring excellent powder snow.

What sets Rusutsu apart are the long courses and multiple areas for powder riding. The expansive grounds feature numerous powder and tree run areas, with the Isola area particularly spacious and a high likelihood of untouched powder. The snow quality is also exceptional!

Website: https://rusutsu.com/en/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rusutsuresort_official/

3. Shiga Kogen, Yakibitake & Okushiga Kogen / Nagano Prefecture

Shiga Kogen is renowned for its vast scale, hot springs, and unique charm, making it one of Japan’s most iconic ski areas. With 18 ski resorts and a total skiable area of 425 hectares—about the size of 10 Tokyo Disneyland parks—Shiga Kogen offers 84 courses, all accessible with a single lift pass. The immense scale and affordable prices are major attractions.

Yokote-yama Ski Resort, with Japan’s highest elevation of 2,307 meters, offers famous “silky snow.” The season runs from mid-November to Golden Week in May, and the snow conditions are typically excellent from early on.

The area is also famous for its hot springs, with well-known baths like Kuma-no-Yu and Ishi-no-Yu. In addition, the Jigokudani Monkey Park, where wild Japanese macaques bathe in hot springs, is a unique experience that has drawn global attention, becoming a symbol of Shiga Kogen.

Yakibitake at Shiga Kogen, the venue for the Nagano Olympics, has efficient gondolas and lifts. The snow quality rivals that of Hokkaido, and Okushiga Kogen is famous for its long courses that offer exceptional cruising.

Website: https://www.princehotels.com/en/ski/shiga_kogen/index.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yakebiski_official/

4. Hakuba Happo-One / Nagano Prefecture

Cruising while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Northern Japanese Alps is a world-class experience! With long slopes and a wide variety of courses, this resort offers something for everyone. The base area is home to an international selection of restaurants, making it a great spot for food lovers too.

5. Geto Kogen / Iwate Prefecture

Located in one of Tohoku’s top snowfall areas, this resort offers excellent efficiency with two gondolas. Known for having the most tree-run courses in Japan, it’s a haven for powder enthusiasts who can enjoy Tohoku’s famous deep powder snow.

6. Furano / Hokkaido

Renowned for its controlled powder zones, Furano delivers some of the finest powder experiences. Loved by skiers and snowboarders from around the globe, visitors can enjoy stunning scenery on clear days and world-class powder runs. With the town of Furano nearby, you can also enjoy a vibrant après-ski scene.

7. Akakura Kanko Ski Resort / Niigata Prefecture

In this snowy region, heavy snowfall often delivers incredible deep powder. After skiing, relax at Akakura Onsen, where you can savor local delicacies like Niigata’s famous Koshihikari rice and enjoy locally brewed sake. A soak in the onsen followed by some sake is highly recommended!

8. Madarao Kogen Ski Resort / Nagano Prefecture

With plenty of powder and tree-run areas, this resort is perfect for those who love off-piste riding. Its lift system makes it easy to access the terrain efficiently. The hotels at the base area feature onsen, making it ideal for longer stays.

9. Hakuba Goryu & 47 / Nagano Prefecture

This unique spot lets you enjoy two ski resorts in one! Hakuba Goryu boasts expansive courses with stunning views of the Northern Alps, while 47 is perfect for those seeking powder and terrain parks. Its proximity to the Happo-One base area makes après-ski activities convenient.

10. Ishiuchi Maruyama / Niigata Prefecture

Recently upgraded with modern facilities, this resort offers excellent snow quality despite being close to the Kanto region. With long runs and a variety of courses, it’s perfect for a full day of fun. There’s even a day-use onsen at the base area for a relaxing end to your adventure.

Just Missed the Top 10

Niseko Hirafu / Hokkaido
On powder days, you can enjoy incredible open runs that feel unlike anything in Japan. Night skiing here is particularly exceptional, offering a chance to ride powder under the lights.

Lotte Arai Resort / Niigata Prefecture
By hiking up, you can access rare open bowls, a unique feature in Japan. The resort’s gondola lines can get long on heavy snowfall days, but its well-equipped accommodations make it perfect for an extended stay.

Shizukuishi Ski Resort / Iwate Prefecture
One of the few resorts in Japan offering safe powder experiences via snowcat tours. It features innovative ways to enjoy previously unused terrain, making it a standout destination.

About Lift Tickets at Japanese Ski Resorts

Lift tickets at Japanese ski resorts are much more affordable compared to those at famous ski resorts in Europe and North America.
The most expensive lift ticket in Japan is at Rusutsu Resort, where a single-day ticket purchased at the window costs ¥14,500.
However, at most ski resorts, the price of a one-day lift ticket ranges between ¥5,000 and ¥8,000.

Currently, there are an estimated 400–450 ski resorts in Japan. While this number has decreased from its peak in the 1990s (when there were over 600 resorts), many resorts still offer high-quality facilities and excellent services.
Additionally, small local ski resorts often offer incredibly cheap lift tickets—sometimes costing the same as a bowl of ramen in Whistler.

Many ski resorts also offer discounts if you purchase your lift ticket online in advance. In addition, many resorts provide hourly tickets, allowing you to choose a more flexible and cost-effective option depending on your schedule or arrival time.

Major Ski Resorts in Japan: 2024-25 Lift Ticket Prices (Adult 1-Day Pass)

Ski Resort Name	Japanese characters	2024-25 (Price in JPY)
Hokkaido Area	北海道
Kamui Ski Links	カムイスキーリンクス	5300
Tokachi Sahoro Resort	十勝サホロリゾート	8000
Furano	富良野	7500
Hoshino Resorts Tomamu	星野リゾート トマム	7500
Rusutsu Resort	ルスツリゾート	14500
Sapporo Kokusai	札幌国際	5800
Niseko United All Mountain Pass	ニセコ全山	10500
Kiroro Snow World	キロロスノーワールド	8000
Tohoku Area	東北エリア
	青森スプリング・スキーリゾート	6600
Shizukuishi Ski Resort	雫石	6000
	安比高原	7500
Geto Kogen	夏油高原	6400
	蔵王温泉	7500
	天元台高原	5500
	星野リゾート ネコマ マウンテン	5700
	グランデコスノーリゾート	6000
Kanetsu Area	関越
	川場	6200(平日5900)
	スノーパーク尾瀬戸倉	—
	谷川岳天神平（Mt.T by 星野リゾート）	9000
	丸沼高原	—
	Mt.Naeba（かぐら共通）	9000
	苗場	7200
	かぐら	7200
	神立スノーリゾート	5900
	上越国際	5500
	GALA湯沢	6800
Ishiuchi Maruyama	石内丸山	7000
Joetsu/Shinetsu Area	上信越
Karuizawa Prince Hotel Snow Resort	軽井沢プリンス	9800
	菅平高原スノーリゾート	5700
Shiga Kogen	志賀高原	8000
Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort	野沢温泉	7300
Madarao Kogen Ski Resort	斑尾高原	8000
	戸狩温泉	5500
	タングラムスキーサーカス	—
	戸隠	6500
Akakura Kanko Ski Resort	赤倉観光	6500
Lotte Arai Resort	ロッテアライ	7500
Hakuba Area	白馬
Hakuba Happo-One	白馬八方尾根	8000
Hakuba Goryu	エイブル白馬五竜	8500
Hakuba 47	Hakuba47ウィンタースポーツパーク	8500
Hakuba Norikura Onsen(Hakuba Cortina All-Area Pass)	白馬乗鞍温泉（白馬コルチナ共通）	5800
Hakuba Cortina(Hakuba Norikura All-Area Pass)	白馬コルチナ（白馬乗鞍共通）	5800
	白馬岩岳マウンテンリゾート	—
	栂池高原	7500
	HAKUBA VALLEY 鹿島槍	5500
	爺ガ岳	5200
	白馬さのさか	—
Chuo Area	中央
	カムイみさか
	白樺湖ロイヤルヒル	5500
	スノーパーク イエティ	5200（平日4300）
Chukyo/Hokuriku Area	中京・北陸
	スキージャム勝山	5800
	鷲ヶ岳	—
Takasu Snow Park(Dainaland All-Area Pass)	高鷲スノーパーク（ダイナランド共通）	5900
	めいほう	5800（平日4700）
Kansai and Western Japan Area	関西以西
	万場	4800
	ハチ北高原（ハチハチ北共通）	5500（平日5000）
	ハチ高原（ハチハチ北共通）	5500（平日5000）
	グランスノー奥伊吹	5900（平日4700）