Japan

If you are looking for an unforgettable ski holiday, go no further than Japan. Offering some of the world’s best snow conditions, with the famous Onsen spas and a unique culture, Japan has all the elements for an unforgettable snow holiday.

Boasting more than 600 ski resorts, you are spoilt for choice when considering a Japanese ski holiday. Resorts are dotted around the country however the island of Hokkaido in the north and the Nagano/Niigata region on the main island of Honshu, boast some of the best snow holiday experiences.

Situated on the west coast of the main island, the Nagano/Niigata ski region was host to the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. Located conveniently near Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka, it is one of the most accessible snow holiday destinations in Asia.

Further north, on the island of Hokkaido, temperatures start to drop but snowfall levels increase. From the capital city of Sapporo, which was home to the 1972 Winter Olympic Games, you will find some of Japan’s most spectacular natural landscapes and great ski resorts.

With an average of 10 to 18 metres of snow falling at most resorts, Japan’s ski season starts in late November and continues well into April/May. The best skiing is often from January – February and some resorts close in late March, so make sure you plan accordingly to get the best conditions.

Japan’s large snow falls make for perfect skiing, snowboarding, ice skating and a range of other snow holiday activities.  Another must on any Japanese ski holiday is to take a dip in an onsen (hot spring), while the Japanese cuisine is sure to keep you going on and off the slopes.

The local people are friendly, the food delicious, and most of the resorts have great accommodation and tourist services, so immerse yourself in all that a Japanese ski holiday has to offer.

Region: Hokkaido

The northern island of Hokkaido is home to some of the best snow in Japan. Set against a beautiful scenic backdrop, it is no wonder that Hokkaido has become one of the most popular international ski regions for visitors from around the world.

Region: Nagano/Niigata

The Nagano/Niigata region, located in the centre of Japan, is often referred to as the ‘Roof of Japan’. Surrounding the city of Nagano, home of the 1998 Winter Olympics, the region is home to towering snow covered mountains and some of the best ski resorts in Japan.