Winter sports might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Japan, but among insiders, it is a well-known snow paradise!
Japan is a world-class winter sports destination offering endless mountain ranges covered in perfect powder snow. Over 500 ski resorts are spread all over Japan, but the best conditions are found on the island of Hokkaido, and prefectures such as Niigata and Nagano, much closer to Tokyo and of easy access for the Metropolitan on the weekend. Having hosted two Winter Olympics, Japan certainly knows how to enjoy to make the most of its natural wonders.
What makes Japan such a great winter destination?
The abundance of fresh powder snow is one of the major incentives drawing national and international tourists alike to these areas. The next powder day or even powder hour is never far away and will provide continuous fun on the slopes.
The terrain is versatile and ranges from beginner-friendly to steeper and much more challenging slopes. Depending on the resort, seasoned skiers and snowboarders can find excellent off-piste and backcountry spots. There is a piste for everyone.
Japanese ski resorts oftentimes have an amazing view over the surrounding snowy-mountain and deep-valley landscape. In the midst of Nature’s beauty, one can easily forget that they are in the land of robotics and 24/7 convenience stores.
There is more than just snow
Japan is a convenient destination for winter travelers. Hotel and dining facilities are often within close reach to the piste and provide short transfer times. Japanese ski resorts will welcome you with open arms and treat you with the world-famous Japanese “omotenashi” hospitality. In Japan the customers are more than always right, they are treated as gods, as the saying goes. The staff is very attentive and the service is flawless, making your vacation a marvelous time free of any hassles.
After a long day on the piste, it is time to relax and what could be better than soaking your aching joints in a hot spring? Japanese onsen have been part of Japanese culture for thousands of years and have become a popular activity among international tourists as well. Feel free to have a look at our Onsen Guide if you are interested in experiencing the benefits of Japanese thermal waters.
