Japan Ski Resorts

Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Located in the heart of Hokkaido and known as its "belly button," Furano connects you to some of Japan's best skiing with over 25 miles of perfectly groomed slopes spread across two zones, Furano Zone and Kitanomine Zone. Known for its incredibly light and dry powder, Furano is a dream for skiers seeking fresh tracks and long, uninterrupted runs, dual ski zones, stunning scenery, local charm and a long season.

For the ultimate skiing experience, take on Furano's top elevation of 3,967 feet. The views are simply breathtaking, with panoramas of Mount Tokachi and the Daisetsuzan Mountain Range, making every descent a visual delight. Furano is famous for its long ski season, often stretching from November to May, ensuring consistent snow conditions throughout the winter. Looking for untouched powder? Furano’s off-piste areas and tree skiing offer some of Hokkaido’s most thrilling runs, perfect for those in search of deep powder and solitude.

Highlights: Furano Ski Resort is renowned for its light, dry powder, a hallmark of skiing in central Hokkaido, two interconnected zones, Furano Zone and Kitanomine Zone, one of Japan’s longest ski seasons, typically running from late November to early May and a quieter, more traditional Japanese experience compared to larger resorts like Niseko.

Closest airport: New Chitose Airport (CTS) - 78 miles (2 hours)

Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Hakuba Valley is Japan’s premier ski destination, combining the beauty of the Japanese Alps with rich winter sports traditions. Home to the 1998 Winter Olympics, it features 10 interconnected ski resorts with 200 runs and 85 miles of terrain, offering everything from beginner slopes to challenging off-piste areas.

Hakuba Valley is famous for its incredible, powdery snow and is a top destination for backcountry skiers and snowboarders. But skiing isn’t the only highlight—it’s also known for its stunning Japanese backdrop and vibrant après-ski scene. After a day on the slopes, soak in traditional onsens (hot springs) or unwind in the village’s ryokans (traditional inns), blending relaxation with cultural immersion. Villages like Happo-one offer the charm of traditional Japan alongside modern amenities and luxury accommodations. Just 3 hours from Tokyo by bullet train and bus, Hakuba is one of Japan’s most accessible ski destinations, perfect for combining skiing with city adventures or cultural exploration.

Highlights: Hakuba Valley is comprised of 10 interconnected ski resorts, offering over 200 runs and 85 miles of terrain, was a host venue for the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, is considered a mecca for backcountry skiers and snowboarders and offers an immersive cultural experience.

Closest airport: Haneda Airport (HND) - 174 miles (4 hours 30 minutes)

Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Kiroro Ski Resort, nestled in Hokkaido’s snowy mountains, is a hidden gem known for its pristine powder and peaceful atmosphere. With over 50 miles of skiable terrain, including groomed runs and off-piste options, Kiroro offers a quieter, more exclusive experience even during peak season. Its advanced lift system ensures quick access to the slopes, so you can spend more time enjoying Japan’s famous powder and less time waiting in line.

Kiroro boasts some of Japan’s deepest snowfall, averaging 66 feet of powder annually, ensuring epic conditions all season. The resort’s commitment to preserving the environment creates a sustainable, authentic ski experience. Visitors can also enjoy sushi in Otaru or visit Sapporo’s Snow Festival, making Kiroro perfect for skiing and sightseeing. See why our Ski.com Mountain Travel Experts love it!

Highlights: Kiroro Ski Resort offers a tranquil and uncrowded experience, even during peak season, off-piste terrain and lift-accessed backcountry skiing, home to several luxury hotels, including a world-class, ski-in ski-out resort with top-notch amenities and very welcoming to families.

Closest airport: New Chitose Airport (CTS) - 56 miles (1 hour 45 minutes)

Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Niseko United Ski Resort in Japan is a hotspot in the ski world, and for good reason. Located in Hokkaido, it’s famous for its consistent, light, fluffy powder known as "Japow." With an average of 600 inches of snow annually, it’s one of the snowiest ski destinations on Earth—a paradise for powder lovers. Adventure-seekers will love Niseko’s breathtaking terrain, including its legendary backcountry. The best part? Niseko United’s four resorts—Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village, Annupuri, and Hanazono—are all connected by a shared lift pass and shuttle system. From groomed trails to off-piste powder, Niseko has it all.

For thrill-seekers, Niseko offers night skiing on floodlit runs, letting you carve through powder under the stars—a truly unique experience. After an epic day, relax in a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring) with stunning views of Mount Yotei. Niseko’s après-ski scene is just as lively, featuring cozy izakayas, chic bars, and global dining spots.

Highlights: Niseko United Ski Resort accounts for four interconnected ski resorts, an extensive, star-filled night skiing experience, breathtaking views of Mount Yotei and home to numerous traditional Japanese onsens.

Closest airport: New Chitose Airport (CTS) - 70 miles (2 hours 30 minutes)

Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Rusutsu Ski Resort is where legendary Japanese powder meets world-class skiing. With over 500 inches of light, dry snow annually, it’s a skier’s dream. The resort spans three interconnected mountains—West Mountain, East Mountain, and Mount Isola—offering everything from gentle slopes to thrilling tree runs. Its proximity to Niseko makes it easy to explore even more of Japan’s top terrain. Our Mountain Travel Experts are big fans of Rusutsu!

Rusutsu gets some of the deepest, most consistent “Japow” snow on the planet, with runs up to 3,600 feet. Its tree-lined slopes and off-piste areas are perfect for powder enthusiasts. But it’s not just for hardcore skiers—Rusutsu is great for families too. With uncrowded slopes and short lift lines, even during peak season, it offers a relaxed, exclusive vibe for skiers and snowboarders alike.

Highlights: In Rusutsu Ski Resort, you will find consistent, light "Japow” snow, a ski area that spans three interconnected mountains, a unique night skiing experience and a more tranquil experience with uncrowded slopes and shorter lift lines, even during peak season.

Closest airport: New Chitose Airport (CTS) - 50 miles (1 hour 30 minutes)