Top 5 Ski Resorts in Japan: Winter Experiences Not to Be Missed

Ski resorts in Japan not only offer great skiing but also a place for you to enjoy majestic natural scenery, high-class accommodation services and unique culinary experiences. Below are the top 5 ski resorts in Japan that you should not miss when visiting the land of the rising sun in winter.

1. Niseko Ski Resort

Niseko, Hokkaido is considered one of the most famous ski resorts (Photo source: Collected)

Niseko, located on the island of Hokkaido, is considered one of the most famous ski resorts in Japan. The area is known for its deep, high-quality snow, often referred to as "powder snow". Niseko consists of four main ski areas: Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village and Annupuri, which are linked together to form an extensive ski system.

Visitors to Niseko can enjoy long runs suitable for both beginners and experts. The area also offers stunning views of Mount Yotei, known as the “Fuji of Hokkaido”. After skiing, you can relax in famous hot springs (onsen) or enjoy specialties such as ramen and fresh seafood.

2. Hakuba Ski Resort

Hakuba was the venue for the 1998 Winter Olympics (Photo source: Collected)

Hakuba, located in Nagano Prefecture, is one of Japan's oldest ski resorts and was the site of the 1998 Winter Olympics. Hakuba has 10 different ski areas, the most notable being Happo-One, Tsugaike Kogen, and Hakuba Goryu.

Hakuba is known for its variety of ski runs, from easy runs for beginners to extreme runs for professionals. The area also has modern infrastructure, including a cable car system and high-quality lodging. Hakuba is also an ideal place to try other sports such as snowboarding and snowshoeing.

3. Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort

Nozawa Onsen is the ideal place for you to experience the combination of adventure sports and local culture (Photo source: Collected)

Nozawa Onsen, located in Nagano Prefecture, is not only a ski resort in Japan but also a traditional village with famous hot springs. This is the ideal place for you to experience the combination of adventure sports and local culture.

The Nozawa Onsen ski area has over 30 runs suitable for all levels. One of the highlights of Nozawa Onsen is the snow festival held every January, where visitors can enjoy fireworks and other fun activities. After a day of skiing, you can relax in traditional public baths (sento) or enjoy yaki-onigiri sweets grilled over charcoal.

4. Shiga Kogen Ski Area

Shiga Kogen is the largest ski area in Japan (Photo source: Collected)

Shiga Kogen, also located in Nagano Prefecture, is the largest ski area in Japan with 19 ski resorts connected by lifts and buses. The area is famous not only for its size but also for its spectacular natural scenery, located in Joshinetsu Kogen National Park.

Shiga Kogen has a variety of ski runs, suitable for both families and speed enthusiasts. In addition to skiing, visitors can also visit Jigokudani Monkey Park, where adorable snow monkeys relax in hot springs. The area is also famous for its traditional-style hotels, providing a relaxing feeling after hours of fun in the snow.

5. Furano Ski Resort

Furano is one of the most popular ski resorts in Japan (Photo source: Collected)

Furano, located in central Hokkaido, is one of Japan's favorite ski resorts thanks to its peaceful atmosphere and excellent snow quality. With over 20 runs, Furano attracts both beginners and experienced skiers thanks to the variety of terrain and length of runs.

Furano is also known for its other outdoor activities, such as winter hot air ballooning and dog sledding. Visitors can also explore the famous flower fields in the summer, making Furano a great destination all year round. Local cuisine, from cheese to wine, is also a must when visiting the area.

Ski resorts in Japan are not only a place to enjoy winter sports but also an opportunity to explore the natural beauty, culture and unique cuisine of this country. From famous areas such as Niseko and Hakuba to peaceful destinations such as Furano, each ski resort in Japan offers a unique and memorable experience.

Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/khu-truot-tuyet-o-nhat-ban-v16125.aspx