A Beginner’s Guide to Skiing in Japan: Best Resorts in Hokkaido and Nagano

PUBLISHED April 23rd, 2015 04:00 pm | UPDATED November 26th, 2025 09:00 pm

Skiing in Japan is more than a winter escape, it’s a cultural immersion wrapped in powder snow. With world-renowned slopes, charming mountain towns, and a unique blend of modern infrastructure and centuries-old hospitality, Japan is easily one of the best places on earth for beginner and seasoned skiers alike. From Hokkaido’s legendary snowfall to the historic trails of Nagano’s Japanese Alps, here’s your beginner’s guide to skiing Japan in style. Planning to go beyond the slopes? Be sure to check out our curated Winter in Hokkaido itinerary and our Dining Guide to Sapporo for local eats, beer halls, and post-ski indulgence.

Where to Ski in Japan?

Japan is home to over 500 ski resorts, but most travellers from Singapore and the region tend to focus on two major zones: Hokkaido and Nagano.

Hokkaido: Niseko & Rusutsu

Niseko United is Japan’s most famous ski resort, prized for its deep powder, excellent infrastructure, and vibrant international vibe. Think of it as the “Aspen” of Asia. Niseko comprises four interconnected ski areas: Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village, and Annupuri.

Rusutsu, a quieter alternative just 40 minutes from Niseko, offers pristine slopes with fewer crowds and excellent tree runs, great for families and learners.

Where to Stay: Try The Green Leaf Niseko Village or the Park Hyatt Hanazono for ski-in, ski-out access with onsen baths and chic alpine aesthetics. For budget-conscious travellers, check out pensions and boutique hostels in Hirafu.

Nagano: Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen & Shiga Kogen

Nagano hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics, and its resorts still deliver on world-class skiing.

Hakuba Valley features 10 resorts, ideal for beginners and pros. Nozawa Onsen is a picturesque village with charming ryokans and steaming hot springs. For a wilder, more spread-out experience, Shiga Kogen offers the largest connected terrain in Japan and is perfect for long ski days.

Where to Stay: In Hakuba, opt for Phoenix Hotel or Happo One area for convenience. Nozawa Onsen is best enjoyed in a traditional ryokan like Sakaya Ryokan.

Best Time to Go

The ski season runs mid-December to early April, though January and February offer the best snow conditions. Visit in late February to early March for slightly warmer weather and thinner crowds.

How to Get There

Hokkaido: Fly into New Chitose Airport (CTS) via Tokyo or Seoul. From there, take a shuttle bus (e.g. White Liner or Hokkaido Resort Liner) to Niseko or Rusutsu.

Nagano: Land at Tokyo Haneda or Narita Airport, take the Shinkansen to Nagano Station, then transfer via local bus to Hakuba, Nozawa, or Shiga. Use Navitime or Japan Travel App by Navitime for real-time route planning in English.

What Else to Do (Besides Skiing)?

Japan’s ski culture offers far more than just pristine slopes and powdery descents. Immersing yourself in the après-ski lifestyle here is as rewarding as the thrill of the run.

After a long day navigating snowy terrain, few pleasures compare to the restorative ritual of soaking in a natural onsen. Japan’s hot springs are deeply rooted in local culture, and both Nozawa and Niseko are renowned for their exceptional offerings. Surrounded by snowy landscapes, a dip in these geothermal waters is a deeply soothing way to recover and reflect.

For those keen on wildlife, a visit to Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano is a must. Here, Japanese macaques famously lounge in steaming hot springs amidst falling snow, an unforgettable sight that perfectly captures the harmony of nature and tradition.

Culinary indulgence is also essential to the Japanese ski experience. Warm your soul with a hearty bowl of miso ramen, freshly grilled seafood from Hokkaido, or a flight of warm sake in a cosy izakaya. Dining in Japan’s snow country is both comforting and exquisitely crafted.

Finally, winter in Japan is made even more magical by its local festivals. If your timing is right, experience the Dosojin Fire Festival in Nozawa Onsen on 15 January. This dramatic event blends fire, folklore, and copious amounts of sake into one of the most unique cultural festivities of the season.

Budgeting for Your Trip

Skiing is undeniably an expensive hobby, especially when venturing abroad. While the cost of a ski holiday in Japan will vary depending on your travel style, resort choice, and time of visit, it’s worth noting that expenses can add up quickly. From flights and accommodations to lift passes, rentals, and dining, careful planning and advance bookings are key to making the experience both memorable and manageable. Whether you’re looking to splurge on a luxurious ski-in, ski-out resort or keep things lean with a boutique hostel and local eats, Japan offers options to suit a variety of travel budgets.

Pro Tips for Beginners

If you’re planning your first ski trip to Japan, a few practical tips can make all the difference. Start by packing smart. It’s tempting to over-prepare, but you’ll find that renting gear locally is often more convenient and cost-effective. For essentials like thermal wear, consider purchasing affordable and reliable options from brands like Uniqlo and Decathlon before your departure.

Enrolling in ski lessons is highly recommended for beginners. Most major resorts offer English-speaking instructors, making it easy to gain confidence on the slopes quickly. Booking your flights and accommodations early is another crucial move, particularly around peak periods and public holidays, when availability becomes scarce.

Lastly, keep in mind that while Japan is largely modern and connected, some smaller ski towns still operate on a cash-based system. Carrying sufficient yen in hand ensures smooth transactions for everything from lift passes to meals at local eateries.

Whether you’re carving your first snowplough or chasing the thrill of powder runs, Japan offers a ski experience like no other. With thoughtful hospitality, breathtaking landscapes, culture-rich moments off the slopes, and easy access from Singapore, there’s never been a better time to learn to ski.

Happy trails!