Japan is a magical destination year-round, and winter is no exception, especially renowned for its incredible skiing opportunities. The country boasts some of the best ski resorts in Japan, known for their powder snow and catering to both beginners and seasoned experts alike.

Japan has this powder snow that’s just perfect for skiing. It’s great for all levels, whether you’re a beginner or an expert. So, if you’re looking for awesome ski resorts, Japan’s got plenty. You can find them scattered across snowy spots like Niseko or Hakuba.

Ready to plan your next winter getaway in Japan? Discover our top picks for the best ski resorts in Japan and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on the slopes!

Location: 2-chome-9-1 Nisekohirafu 1 Jo, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0080, Japan

Opening Hours: Vary based on the season, weather conditions, and specific days

When it comes to experiencing the best skiing in Japan, Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu stands out for all the right reasons. Expect crowds – it's popular for good reason: stunning views, top-notch terrain, and the finest powder snow around. Night skiing here is said to be unbeatable.

Besides skiing, you can enjoy lively nightlife near the resort. Whether you want a meal, coffee, cocktails, or a relaxing soak in an onsen, everything is close by. This popular spot attracts ski enthusiasts from around the world.

Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu has excellent facilities, from cozy budget options to large condos for big groups. Hotels near Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu offer convenient accommodation choices. Before skiing, get a map and check the trails – green for beginners and challenging black for experts. Always prioritise safety.

Location: Madaraokogen, Iiyama, Nagano 389-2257, Japan

Opening Hours: 8.30 AM - 4.30 PM

Only an hour from downtown Nagano City, Madarao Mountain Resort stands out as one of the best ski slopes in Japan. This expansive resort offers a variety of slopes, including groomed and ungroomed runs, catering to both advanced skiers and beginners seeking excitement.

Families will appreciate The Madarao Kids Park, featuring snow tubes, sleds, and traditional Japanese-style igloos for children to enjoy. There's also the Snow Fun Corner, ensuring safe and enjoyable snow activities for all ages. After outdoor adventures, kids can unwind at TSUMIKI, an indoor playground located in Madarao Kogen Hotel.

Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and exceptional skiing opportunities, Madarao Mountain Resort is a perfect destination among Japan ski resorts for winter fun. Whether you're an expert or a novice, consider making your ski debut here on the slopes!

Location: Madaraokogen, Iiyama, Nagano 389-2257, Japan

Opening Hours: 8.30 AM - 4.30 PM

Get ready for an amazing time at Rusutsu Resort, one of the best ski resorts in Japan! It's a perfect destination any time of year, but winter here is truly special. You'll love the fluffy powder snow and sunny days, thanks to its great location that shields from harsh winter winds.

If you're an experienced skier, Rusutsu Resort has plenty of advanced trails with exciting challenges around every turn. Besides the usual facilities like restaurants, rentals, and hot springs, Rusutsu offers tons of fun snow activities like snowmobiling, dog sledding, horseback riding, snow rafting, nature tours, ice fishing, and even a unique snow tent sauna and Kamakura outdoor snow dive. There's never a dull moment in winter here!

And if you're new to skiing, don't worry, many Japan ski resorts offer snow schools where you can join to improve your skills and make the most of your time on the slopes.

Location: Suginosawa, Myoko, Niigata 949-2113, Japan

Opening Hours: 8.30 AM - 4 PM

This ski resort in Myoko is considered the best for skiing in Japan. Myoko Suginohara Ski Resort is modern and equipped with gondolas and fast quad lifts to take you to the peak. On clear days, you can even see Mount Fuji from up there.

All skill levels are welcome, but it’s especially great for beginners to intermediate skiers. The resort is divided into two zones: Suginohara Zone on the right and Mitahara Zone on the left, connected by several trails at the top.

You’ll find plenty of local eateries nearby offering authentic Japanese food to enjoy during your visit.

Location: Hokujo, Hakuba, Kitaazumi District, Nagano 399-9301, Japan

Opening Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM

Get ready for an unforgettable sight of The North Alps at Happo-One! This top-notch Japan ski resort holds a special place as the site of the 1998 Winter Olympics, promising a unique skiing experience. Suitable for all skill levels, Happo-One features diverse trails categorised into five levels: beginner, upper beginner, intermediate, advanced, and expert.

Families and beginners will feel right at home in the safe and playful beginners' area, where kids can frolic in the snow, build snowmen, and create snow castles to their heart's content. First-time skiers can learn with confidence here, with gear available for rent onsite. After a day on the slopes, unwind in the renowned onsen, boasting Japan's highest alkaline water and natural hydrogen levels, nestled at the base of Hakuba Mountain. Here, you can soak in rejuvenating hot springs while soaking up stunning views of the Northern Alps.

Convenient accommodations and dining options are located close to this top-rated Japan ski resort, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable winter getaway.

Location: 6739-11 Oaza-Toyosato, Nozawa-Onsen-mura, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano-ken, Japan 389-2502

Opening Time: 8.30am - 4.30pm

Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort is celebrated for its consistent powder and diverse terrain suitable for all skiing abilities, making it a standout among ski slopes in Japan. Nestled in a charming traditional village, it's renowned for its abundance of onsens (hot springs) which offer a relaxing post-skiing retreat. Unlike other resorts, the slopes here are never overcrowded, ensuring an enjoyable skiing experience.

The village itself is a bustling hub of activity at this Japan ski resort, with slopeside restaurants lively throughout the season. It's renowned for its après-ski scene, offering a variety of bars, restaurants, and lively karaoke joints – perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes.

Families particularly appreciate Nozawa Onsen for its family-friendly amenities, including English-speaking ski instructors and a free-of-charge ‘Kids Park’ on weekends. Here, children can enjoy activities like bouncing castles, tubing, and sledding, making it an ideal choice for a memorable winter vacation.

Location: 593-3 Teinehonco, Teine-Ku, Sapporo 006-0029 Hokkaido

Opening Time: 09:00 - 17:00

Sapporo Teine is where you can hit some of the steepest ski slopes in Japan and enjoy that famous powder without breaking the bank. It’s only a 40-minute drive from Sapporo and doesn’t get too crowded with international tourists, so you’ve got plenty of space to ski.

While it’s not a huge resort, Sapporo Teine offers easy access to challenging terrain that’s perfect for adventurous skiers. It’s a great spot if you want a real Japanese skiing experience minus the big crowds.

If you’re not an expert skier, though, you might find the slopes a bit tough. In that case, you might want to check out somewhere like Kiroro, which is better for intermediate skiers. Whether you’re chasing powder or stunning views, Sapporo Teine is a cool place to ski in Japan.w

Choosing the best ski resort in Japan guarantees a memorable skiing experience with your loved ones. Discover great deals on activities, flights, and hotels at Traveloka. For more information, visit Traveloka and enjoy your skiing adventure to the fullest!