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UPDATED: The Best Ski Resorts in Japan (Winter 2019-2020)

True, there are countless snowfields around the world, but nothing quite compares to those in Japan, where the delicate tufts of snow are soft as the clouds. There’s something poetic about how the powdery snow glistens in the sun, covering the landscape as delicate snowflakes are waltzing in the air. If you are going after adrenaline-filled winter activities in Asia, Japan is no doubt one of the top choices! There’s no place in Asia like Japan where you can indulge in exciting winter sports while basking in the unique and breathtaking alpine scenery.

Is this your first time organizing your ski trip to Japan? To save your time from digging up all the information and poring through travel books, we’ve prepared everything you need to know right here! We’ll count through the best ski resorts in Tokyo, Osaka, Mount Fuji, Karuizawa, and Hokkaido, where you can make your ski experience remarkable.

 

Japan Ski Resort Tours

 

Osaka, Kyoto: Biwako Valley

Biwako Valley, (Image via Fotolia)

Wanna see the best snow lake view in Japan? Biwako Valley is your best bet. Glide down the snow-capped mountain hill while marveling at the breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan.  

Whether you are a winter sports lover or not, the rich snow and the view here make it a heaven paradise for everyone. The popularity of this resort doesn’t come without any reason. Aside from the magnificent lake view, it is fully furnished with 9 courses cater to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Kids have their area to play with the snow, and every coming visitor will certainly drool over the impressive meals available.

Biwako Valley, (Image via Fotolia)

 

The resort is within 40 minutes’ reach from Kyoto. Make sure you are all dressed and get your camera ready before you take the ropeway up to the resort, for the picture-perfect scenery and the grand snow playground await you!

A quick tip: For absolute beginners who crave for learning to ski, remember to book a ski lesson on the official website before you take off!

 

 

Osaka: Rokko Snow Park

The night view from Rokko Snow Park, (Image via Fotolia)

Another mountain snow park for winter sports rookies and parents with children! The gentle terrain of Rokko Snow Park is not only an ideal snowfield for beginners, but also perfect for kids to make a snowman, jump into snowball fights, and have sleigh rides down the hill! However, if you are a ski expert with a need for speed, just take a cable car up to the mountain. You’ll find more challenging courses to test your abilities.

Don’t miss out on one of “Japan’s big three-night views”, the night view of Kobe— an ocean of shimmering city lights spreading out along the coastline, as spectacular as the Milky Way! 

    • Suitable for: Visitors traveling to Osaka and Kobe, family trip, ski beginners, snow enthusiasts
    • Address: 4512-98 Rokkosancho, Nada Ward, Kobe (Google Maps)
    • Winter Season: Dec. 21, 2019 – Mar. 8, 2020
    • Transportation: From Hankyu Rokko Station/ JR Rokkomichi station/ Hanshin Mikage Station, take  Kobe City Bus Route 16 and get off at Rokko Cable Shita Station.
    • Recommended Tour: Day Tour from Osaka: Rokko Snow Park & Arima Onsen
    • Official Website

 

 

Mt. Fuji: Snowtown Yeti

Snowtown Yeti, (Image via Fotolia)

Who would refuse a ski experience with the spectacular backdrop of mighty Mt. Fuji? Snowtown Yeti is another perfect option for those traveling from Tokyo. It’s suitable for all skiers, thanks to the wide array of facilities and slopes.

The resort is one of the earliest to kick off each season in Japan. They not only offer new models of equipment for rent and courses from beginner to advanced level, but also daycare services and playground for kids, along with a small terrain park with jumps and rails!

Snowtown Yeti, (Image via Fotolia)

The resort is one of the earliest to kick off each season in Japan. They not only offer new models of equipment for rent and courses from beginner to advanced level, but also daycare services and playground for kids, along with a small terrain park with jumps and rails!

Since it is located on the southern slope of Mt. Fuji, visitors normally take about 3 hours for a round trip from Tokyo. But here’s the good news—you can skip all the hassle by booking a day tour that offers convenient bus transfers, a 1-day ticket to the resort, snowboard/ski-board, and snow boots. Please be noted that the day tour does not include lessons. The resort does provide Japanese ski lessons if you speak the language!

 

 

Tambara Ski Park

(Image via KKday Supplier)

For snow enthusiasts intimidated by winter sports, look no further! Tambara Ski Park, not far off Tokyo, is a beginner and kid-friendly snow land for visitors to learn skiing in a less daunting environment.

A lavender paradise in summer and a small but lovely ski park in the winter, it is the snowfield where you are able to take in the alpine scenery while you glide on the gentle slopes. Unwind from the urban grind by visiting the farm field nearby. Pick strawberries in the warm house and dig in delicious king crabs by joining the day tour!

  • Suitable for:  Families, snow enthusiasts, ski beginners
  • Address: 378-0071 Gunma Prefecture, Numata (Google Maps)
  • Winter Season: Dec 2018 to Apr 2019
  • Transportation: JR Jōetsu Shinkansen to Jōmō-kōgen station, then take the shuttle bus to the resort
  • Recommended Tour:   KKday Supplier
  • Official Website

 

 

Bonus: JR Tokyo Wide Pass and GALA Yuzawa Snow Resort Package

Here’s another great option for those traveling to Tokyo: try the ultimate travel fuss-free snow resort package! With the package, you’ll get JR Tokyo Wide Pass that allows you to journey around the Kanto region with ease and pick a day to GALA Yuzawa Snow Resort. Save up your time and money for a special winter experience!

 

 

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