This guide prioritizes depth and accuracy. We publish detailed guides only for ski areas where we have extensive first-hand experience and verified data.
The selection below reflects our editorial focus on quality information over exhaustive listings. Coverage will expand as we validate new locations.
Detailed Guides
Shiga Kogen
The Benchmark. Japan's largest interconnected ski area. High altitude ensures verified dry snow quality. It serves as our standard unit of measurement for terrain scale.
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Nozawa Onsen
A historic hot spring village with a massive ski area. Famous for its fire festival, steamy streets, and diverse terrain suitable for all levels.
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Karuizawa
The "Urban Resort." Incredible snowmaking ensures early season access. Combined with a massive outlet mall, it's perfect for families and day trips from Tokyo.
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Regional Overviews
The following areas are significant hubs for Japanese skiing. While we do not yet offer deep-dive guides for these locations, the overviews below provide context for comparison.
Hakuba Valley
Status: Overview Only
An international hub with jagged alpine peaks and vibrant nightlife. Comprises multiple independent resorts. Great for steep terrain and backcountry access.
Myoko Kogen
Status: Overview Only
Famous for massive snowfall ("Japanapow"). A collection of traditional resorts with a retro feel. Excellent for powder hounds.
Our Expansion Policy
We add new ski areas to this guide only when we can verify the on-snow experience. Our goal is to help you understand the specific character of each mountain, reducing the risk of a poor fit for your travel style.