Ski Japan - a unique ski experience

Are you bored of skiing the same old slopes year in year out? Fancy skiing somewhere different this season? If you’re looking for a new challenge – skiing in Japan could be the answer.

Japan is making a big name for itself with skiers and snowboarders all over the world. Take a look at the powder-rich ski resorts and it’s easy to see why. Japan’s quickly becoming one of the must-ski destinations for serious skiers and boarders.

If you thought that Japanese resorts would be few and far between then you’re quite wrong. It boasts more than 500 ski resorts, each offering a unique Japanese ski experience. The best skiing in Japan can be found on the Northern Island of Hokkaido, host to the 1972 Winter Olympics. But, which of these resorts is the best?

Our pick of the Japanese ski resorts

Niseko

Probably the most famous of Japan’s ski resorts, Niseko is extremely popular with both skiers and snowboarders. Known for its deep powder and majestic tree-lined runs, Niseko is fast becoming one of the world’s must-ski resorts.

Ski Niseko and you’ll get the chance to ski the 5 resorts that make up this venue. This will give you an idea of how big Niseko actually is. With so many resorts and an abundance of powder, it’s easy to see why so many more people are hitting the slopes of Niseko.

Amazing powder

Niseko ski areas

Annupuri attracts a large number novices and intermediates to its 13 pistes. With regular, impressive snowfall, Annupuri is also blessed with a decent backcountry for off-piste skiers and freeride snowboarders.

Higashiyama offers scenic skiing and boarding at its most impressive. If you mountain views and tree-lined runs then Higashiyama is the place for you. Forget what you thought you knew, ski with the emphatic backdrop of Mount Yotei for a whole new concept of skiing.

Experience authentic Japanese skiing at the vast Grand Hirafu resort. Plenty of slopes, plenty of lifts and plenty of time to ski with lifts sometimes open until 9pm. The largest of the three ski areas, Grand Hirafu boasts 17 lifts, 34 runs and a lot of snow.

Rusutsu

Well-known for excellent snowfall, Rusutsu’s often has great powder from the beginning of the season in December until it ends in April. All abilities of skiers and snowboarders will find the slopes a challenge and non-skiers will have plenty to do with snow-rafting, snow-tubing, ice-skating and sledding available.

Challenging slopes

Rusutsu ski areas

If you’re looking for thrills, take a trip to Rusutsu’s West Mountain. Great off-piste, short but steep runs and even a half pipe to show off your tricks. Glide through the tree-lined runs that are so iconic and experience Japanese skiing at its finest.

East Mountain is suitable for beginners and relaxed skiers. Don’t expect big air or steep descents. There aren’t any on East Mountain. It’s made up of 2 runs that are pretty flat, especially for Japan. Explorers may discover its two more secretive runs that make a visit to East Mountain a worthwhile adventure.

Skiers head to Mount Isola for its challenging runs that seem to last forever. Combine epic slopes with a spectacular backdrop and you’ve got a great venue for skiing. Probably Rusutsu’s most popular ski area, Isola possesses all the qualities that make Japan a serious skiers’ perfect destination.

Furano

Another of Hokkaido’s resorts with plenty of powder, Furano offers scenic skiing under the bright Japanese sunshine. With enough gentle slopes to keep beginners happy, Furano also boasts a fantastic ungroomed piste with steeps to test the most hardened skier.

Tree-lined runs

Furano ski areas

Skiers can choose between the mountain’s two easily-accessible ski zones – Kitanomine Zone and Furano Zone.

Of the two, Kitanomine is suitable for adventurous skiers as well as beginners with ambitions to advance. The mountain’s steepest slopes are the Furikozawa and Kumaotoshi, both perfect for quality powder skiing. Kitanomine is also a good place for beginners to ski, with enough easy slopes to get you started.

Furano is a great choice for beginners but also boasts the resort’s longest black run – the Challenge. A number of relaxing cruises mean intermediates can try out their turns on the way down the meandering piste. The fantastic powder and clear blue skies will make your descent all the more enjoyable.

So, whether you head to Niseko, Rusutsu, Furano or any of the 500 Japanese ski resorts – prepare to be impressed. The powder alone is worth a visit. Add in the slaloms through snow-topped trees and the unique flavour of Japan’s culture and you’ve got an unforgettable ski trip. Ski Japan this year and send the ultimate ski postcard.

Ski Japan!