4 Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Japan You Need to Visit This Winter

Japan’s status as a world-class ski destination is undisputed. Two Winter Olympics have been held here, and the country’s more than 500 mountains boast conditions that Time Out calls “remarkable.”

Another plus: When the weather starts warming and some resorts in the United States start closing for the season, many of Japan’s remain open, making it the perfect destination for skiers who are unwilling to hang up their poles for the year.

So which mountain should you venture to first? With so many options across the country, the choice can be daunting. To help you make your decision, let’s take a look at what experts say are four of Japan’s best ski destinations.

1. Niseko

Skiers of all levels will find plenty to enjoy at Niseko, a popular resort in Japan’s north. Known for its consistently and remarkably fresh powder, the mountain offers a wide variety of terrain in the form of both groomed runs and backcountry trails.

Outside of skiing, Niseko is unique among Japanese resorts in that it maintains a bustling ski village. Hirafu Village comprises retailers, nightlife, and restaurants, many of which serve Western fare. Niseko as a whole is especially friendly to Westerners thanks to its emphasis on English, a fact that has made it into Japan’s No. 1 destination for international skiers.

Overseas visitors can make their way to Niseko by flying into New Chitose International Airport. From there, they can catch a shuttle bus or train to the resort. While Niseko’s popularity has contributed to it being more expensive than other Japanese skiing destinations, the mountain nonetheless offers myriad lodging options available at a range of price points.

2. Nozawa Onsen

This large ski destination sits approximately two and a half hours outside of Tokyo. Named for the hot springs that flow through the town, Nozawa Onsen boasts a 720-acre ski area where skiers can enjoy the 32 feet of powder the resort receives each season while racing down finely groomed runs. Those more interested in moguls will find ample options, while adventurous skiers can test themselves on the resort’s tree trails.

Similar to Niseko, Nozawa Onsen caters to international visitors with its English-speaking ski-school instructors. Each weekend, the resort opens the free Kids Park, making it a great destination for families.

In addition to its large size and significant powder, Nozawa Onsen stands out for its après activities, which are some of the best in the country. After a long day of skiing, guests should not miss the opportunity to luxuriate in the town’s hot springs at any of 13 free public bathhouses. They can then enjoy a night out at the local restaurants and bars, all of which are located in a village that, while friendly to English speakers, maintains a distinct Japanese charm.

3. Rusutsu

Rusutsu lacks the nightlife of other resorts on this list. Also, no trains run to it, making it more difficult to reach than some other mountains. So why, then, has it been named by Snowpak.com as the No. 1 ski destination in Japan for the 2022-23 season? Because it has snow—lots of it.

An impressive 500 inches of snow falls on the mountain every year, making Rusutsu’s powder the deepest most skiers will ever have the pleasure of experiencing. For the purest conditions, guests can check out the pristine beauty of the resort’s off-piste trails, or navigate through the fresh snow of its tree paths. Afterward, they can soak in Rusutsu’s hot springs.

Along with its heavy snowfall, Rusutsu has earned acclaim for the wide diversity of its skiing, meaning beginner and intermediate riders will have plenty to do as well. On top of it all, the destination is significantly less busy than nearby Niseko, which sits only 30 minutes away by car.

4. Shiga Kogen

Cherry blossoms aren’t typically associated with snow. Not at Shiga Kogen, however, as the resort’s exceptionally long ski season extends into the spring, when Japan’s striking sakura are in bloom. Tourists can view the picturesque flora in Joshinetsu National Park, which, along with encompassing Shiga Kogen, contains Jigokudani Monkey Park. Commonly known as Snow Monkey Park, the conservation area is home to Japanese macaques, and visitors should not miss the opportunity to observe the primates bathing in the hot springs.

Shiga Kogen itself consists of 19 ski areas, which together make the resort the biggest in Japan. Skiers, who need only one ski pass to access all 19 areas, will find a mix of trail difficulties. Options are lacking for expert and backcountry skiers, however. Off-piste skiing is for the most part prohibited at Shiga Kogen.

Where the resort makes up for its lack of advanced trails is in the unique cultural experience it offers. Along with viewing cherry blossoms, guests can stay in a traditional Japanese guesthouse, where their hosts will provide them with the warm hospitality for which the country is known.