I’ve made no secret that it is my heartfelt dream to visit Japan in the winter. Although we’ve visited several times, our trips always seem to fall in the spring. But I love the snow and the skiing in Japan is nothing short of iconic!

From the best Japan ski resorts to choose to where to ski near Tokyo, and of course where to hire ski gear in Japan and even ski lesson discounts, I’ve put together a comprehensive post packed full of EVERYTHING you need to know about skiing in Japan this winter:

Heads up! This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click and make a purchase, I might earn a very small commission – at no extra cost to you. This helps to keep the blog going. Thanks for the support!

1. Why Go Skiing In Japan?
2. Where to Ski Near Tokyo
3. Ski Lessons and Family Packages
4. Tips For Booking Your Japan Ski Holiday
5. Final Thoughts and Further Reading

Why Go Skiing In Japan?

We live in the UK, which means that when most people think skiing, they think of Austria, Switzerland, and the French Alps. Even Scotland, which is our closest ski resort. But actually, there are so many reasons to choose Japan for skiing instead!

Japan has become one of the world’s top winter destinations – and for good reason. From deep powder show to family-friendly resorts, and of course everyones favourite soothing onsens to relieve those aching muscles at the end of a long day, skiing in Japan offers a mis of adventure and culture you won’t find anywhere else.

And the good news is that skiing in Japan is good for everyone! Whether you’re an experienced snow chaster or a family like ours trying the slopes for the first time, Japan’s ski scene is well worth checking out.

Where to Ski Near Tokyo

If you’re short on time, don’t want to travel too far from your arrival airport, or just want to add a couple of days skiing to a more traditional Tokyo city itinerary, you’ll be pleased to know that you can ski near Tokyo. In fact, there are plenty of major ski resorts that are accessible from the city in just two or three hours by either train (always my preferred option for getting around Japan) or car.

🚄 If you choose to take the Shinkansen train, PLEASE book your tickets in advance to guarentee seats, space for your luggage and to get the best prices. You can book these here.
🎁 Use code THATMUMTRAVEL5 to get an extra 5% discount

Here are some of the most popular ski resorts near Tokyo:

• Naeba Ski Resort – This is one of the largest ski resorts in Japan. It’s incredibly easy to access, and it has amazing facilities. As well as being a popular resort with established skiers, this is also an excellent choice for families and beginners.
  🎿 Find Naeba lift tickets and ski lessons on Klook
  🎁 Use code THATMUMTRAVEL5KLOOK for a 5% discount
  
• Karuizawa Prince Resort – This is a more upscale resort, but wonderfully convenient if you’re travelling from Tokyo. As well as offering excellent skiing, this resort is known for its shopping outlets. Perfect for families/groups made up of skiers and non-skiers!
  🏂 Reserve Karuizawa ski passes here
  🎁 Use code THATMUMTRAVEL5KLOOK for a 5% discount
  
• Shiga Kogen – This area is great for intermediate and advanced skiers, and wonderfully affordable too because one ski pass covers multiple interconnected resorts.
  🎿 Check Klook for those Shiga Kogen passes and rentals
  🎁 Use code THATMUMTRAVEL5KLOOK for a 5% discount

Ski Lessons and Family Packages

Japan’s ski resorts are known for both their excellent English-speaking instructors and their family-friendly facilities. Skiing is seen as an activity for the whole family, and there are facilities in place for everyone.

Beginners: Can book group or private ski lessons that will teach the very basics, and help them to build confidence.
Families: Can buy bundle deals that will include lift passes, gear rental, and lessons. This can save money compared to buying these separately.
Advance skiers: Challenge yourself by trying backcounty skiing or powder tours to really test your skiing skills and try something different!

⛄ Check out all of the ski lessons, gear hire, and snow activity options in Japan on Klook for ease, convenience, and to save money.
🎁 Skiing can be a costly hobby, so my code THATMUMTRAVEL5KLOOK should help you to save a little more too.

Tips For Booking Your Japan Ski Holiday

Ready to book your Japan ski holiday? There are a few little hints and tips that can make the whole experience so much smoother and easier for you.

• Book early. This is especially true if (like us) you can only visit during the school holidays. These are peak periods, so plan ahead and book now. Klook also offers extra discounts (up to 12%) for early bookers.
• Don’t forget your travel insurance. And normal travel insurance won’t be enough! You’ll need to upgrade your policy for one with winter sports coverage.
• Try the onsen. That they’re often attached to beautiful onsens is one of the best things about Japanese ski resorts. I love soaking in a steaming hot onsen, so don’t miss this experience.
• Pack layers. This might be teaching you to suck eggs if you’ve been skiing before, but if not, plenty of light layers are absolutely essential! Don’t forget long socks and thermals, but consider hiring your ski gear as a great way to same money (especially for beginners who might not use it again).

Final Thoughts and Further Reading

Whether you’re carving through powder in Niseko or taking your first ski lessons near Tokyo, skiing in Japan is an experience you’ll never forget. And as an added bonus, it’s so easy! You can take the train straight to most resorts, the resorts are family-friendly, and there’s an abundance of world class snow. Which means now is the perfect time to start planning your Japan ski holiday. And consider taking us with you!!

Planning the perfect trip to Japan? These other posts should help with the planning process:

🚕 Tokyo Airport Transfers: A Complete Guide to Getting from Narita and Haneda Airports to Tokyo
🚄 Is The Japan Rail Pass Worth It? Our Honest Opinion!
🗼 The Ultimate Japan Itinerary: 14 Days For First-Time Travellers

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Heads up! This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click and make a purchase, I might earn a very small commission – at no extra cost to you. This helps to keep the blog going. Thanks for the support!