10 best ski resorts in Japan

Sapporo in 1972 opened up a new world of skiing for Japan, and it still remains at the top of the list even among the most demanding skiers. The main reason is the snow. Japan's legendary light snow, known as "Japow", is formed by cold winds from Siberia over the Sea of Japan, which creates unique conditions for skiing. Collecting moisture, these winds fall as a light powder on the mountains on Japan's west coast, creating spectacular skiing conditions.

Although Japan is a long way from the UK, the effort is well worth it - the culture, hot springs (onsen) and gastronomic delights are second to none. Many visitors decide to spend a few nights in Tokyo, Kyoto or Sapporo to add even more impressions to their trip, and also go to meet wild snow monkeys, writes telegraph.co.

But the main event takes place on the slopes - here's where to go for an unforgettable ski vacation in Japan.

Mioko Kogen, Niigata

A two-hour high-speed train ride from Tokyo in the southwestern part of Niigata Prefecture in central Japan is Mioko Kogen. There are nine mountain resorts here with many ski schools, guides, and rental shops for visitors. Among them, Mioko Suginohara is famous for the longest ski run in Japan (about 8.5 km), and Akakura Onsen is known for its steep "Third Wall" run with a 38-degree slope. Although not every lift ticket covers the entire territory of Myoko Kogen, there are plans to expand it by 2026, including the construction of a new luxury hotel. This resort is worth keeping an eye on in the coming years.

Niseko, Hokkaido

Arguably the most famous ski resort in Japan, Niseko is famous for its high snowfall and high-quality powder snow. A 2.5-hour drive from Chitose Airport near Sapporo, there are four interconnected ski resorts - Annupuri, Niseko Village, Grand Hirafu and Hanazono. Skiing here is suitable for all levels - from beginners to experts. Off the slopes, there are plenty of activities and accommodation options, as well as more than 20 hot springs that vary in terms of luxury. There is a variety of Japanese and international cuisine. Be sure to book your seat in advance, as restaurants in Niseko fill up quickly.

Kiroro, Hokkaido

The western Hokkaido ski resort of Kiroro is known for its impressive snowfall, which surpasses even the most demanding ski enthusiasts. Located just 28 km from the coast, it receives an impressive amount of snow, creating unique conditions for deep powder. Kiroro has luxurious hotels and infrastructure for comfortable skiing.

Rusutsu, Hokkaido

The Japanese resort town of Rusutsu, located in Hokkaido Prefecture, is known for its 37 slopes to three peaks with an area of 820 hectares. Here you can enjoy the mountain slopes in deep powder, which is protected from northeast winds due to its location on the leeward side of Mount Yotei. Rusutsu is part of Vail Resorts' Epic Pass, known for its powder runs and well-developed lift network. On the slopes of Rusutsu, you can engage in a variety of activities, from horseback riding and dog sledding to rafting and horseback riding. You can also enjoy saunas with snow tents and visit the world's largest indoor carousel.

Nozawa Onsen, Nagano

Nazawa Onsen is a charming rural village in Nagano Prefecture that is famous for its public hot springs, festivals, and ryokans. Here you will find a wide range of hotels and restaurants. The skiing at the resort is located in one fairly large separate area, rather than in a combination of smaller areas, with 50 km of mostly open, gentle runs and some tree skiing, over 300 hectares of terrain. Every winter, an average of 10 meters of snow falls on the island of Honshu.

Furano, Hokkaido

The city of Furano, located in the center of Hokkaido, offers a variety of activities for everyone, including children and beginners in skiing. There is a large ski area with beginner and intermediate trails, as well as a deep powdery snowmobile and English-speaking staff. A special feature of Furano is free skiing for children under 12 and the availability of free escalators for beginners.

Hakuba Valley, Nagano

Hakuba Valley is a set of 10 separate ski resorts in the rocky Japanese Alps near Nagano. None of the resorts are huge, but they do share a lift pass (including Vail Resorts' Epic Pass), so if you're willing to hop on a bus (or better yet, rent a car) and travel between them, there's plenty of fun to be had.

Shiga Kogen, Nagano

The Shiga Kogen ski resort in Nagano is recognized as the largest in Japan. With 18 interconnected areas connected by lift passes and shuttle buses, this place offers incredible skiing opportunities. Scattered from 1,325 m to 2,307 m above sea level, the slopes provide about 80 km of slopes and the resort covers almost 600 hectares. With a vertical elevation level of 980 m, Shiga Kogen is ideal for intermediate skiing. In addition, this resort is located close to the famous wild Japanese macaques, known as "snow monkeys", who love to bathe in hot springs. The region where the resort is located has been recognized as a UNESCO biosphere conservation area since 1981.

Despite its world fame, Shiga Kogen remains true to Japanese traditions. Here you will find traditional-style rooms, hot springs (onsen), restaurants, and various levels of English service.

Tomamu, Hokkaido

Tomamu in Hokkaido is a resort for those who value comfort and a variety of activities. With significant beginner slopes and numerous activities not limited to skiing, including a wave pool, ice rink, slide and zipline. It's a place where your kids can enjoy activities and you can relax. Just a 90-minute drive from Chitose Airport in Sapporo, you're already on the slopes. Most places are skiable, including the Club Med resort.

Although Tomamu attracts family vacations, the dry powder here hasn't had time to overpopulate, making it an ideal resort for skiing. Skiers can now purchase the Hokkaido Powder Belt pass, which gives access to ski areas located 200 km away in the center of Hokkaido.

Appi Kogen, Tohoku

Appy Cogen is a resort that cares about your comfort. Established in the 1980s, it is famous for its variety of restaurants and culture. Children under 12 ski for free and English is spoken everywhere.

It is worth noting that the upper lift to the top of Nishimoriyama was closed at the end of the 2022/23 season. However, this does not prevent the resort from offering interesting entertainment for children and adults, as well as access to one of the largest hot springs in Tohoku - Shirakaba no Yu.