The Greatest Snow on Earth!
- Most resorts enable different mountain options with one lift pass
- The average snow depth is over 2.5 metres
- The average snowfall for the season is over 14 metres
- Terrain ranges from gentle beginner slopes to expert parks
- For Experts, Hakuba boasts some of the steepest terrain in Japan
- There is something for everyone and everyday is a new experience
Apart from epic powder sessions, Japan has amazing side benefits...
Culture
Buddhism plays a large part in the life of the Japanese people. The region's Zenkoji Temple dates back to the 7th century and even more impressive is Nozawa Onsen, whose history dates back more than a millennium. There are also the Hakuba region's famous 'snowmonkeys' who bath in the hot onsens and are well worth a visit. Your ski experience in Japan will never be like your average North American or European resort.
Onsens
There is no shortage of onsens (Japanese hot springs) in the Nagano region and each one has something different to offer. With options like crystal clear water, high levels of minerals (to refresh the body), indoor, outdoor (rotenburo) and stunning views, onsens are the perfect way to finish up a day of skiing or snowboarding.
Japanese Food
Getting hungry? Japanese food is amazing and every area has regional specialties as well as traditional Japanese options we associate with the country (sushi, tempura, soba noodles etc.). Many ski villages also offer lots of Western and other ethnic dining options (from Mexican to Thai and everything in between).
Tokyo
If you can manage a stopover in Tokyo you'll get to see the neon lights, sights and sounds that make the city famous. Do some electronics shopping in Akihabara, see the latest fashions in Harajuku and party in Roppongi. Finally, finish with a true Japanese experience and stay in a capsule bunk hotel in the middle of Tokyo.
Entertainment
Want to party? Hakuba is one of the better ski resorts for nightlife, with places to sing karaoke and dance the night away are dotted around the village. Other less lively resorts still have traditional Japanese pubs (Izakaya) and hotel lounges to relax and have a drink with friends and compare the day's runs.