Category
Snow and Ice
ActivitiesSnow and Ice
Japan’s reputation for the best snow on Earth is well earned — Niseko’s international powder scene, Nagano’s dense concentration of resorts, and Tohoku’s quieter, heavier-snowfall hills that never quite make the international lists. Our complete guide to skiing and snowboarding in Japan covers all of it, region by region, alongside dedicated coverage of backcountry touring, avalanche awareness, and the annual Japan Snow Guide. Browse below for resort deep dives, trip reports, and season-by-season updates.
Nozawa Onsen
Nozawa Onsen – Shinshu’s Shangri-La
A unique blend of traditional hot spring village atmosphere and modern ski facilities make Nozawa Onsen the quintessential Japane...
Heliskiing
Salaryman Snow Safari
Summer vacation in Japan is not an extended affair. “Salarymen” swelter in cities across Japan, working through the heat of summe...
Backcountry Snowboarding
The Gods’ Playland
Kamui Minara is a backcountry playland high above the valley where raw adventure meets mellow relaxation. A long, long time ag...
Japan Snow Guide
Soul Searching on the Northern Island
"Skiing Japan," enter, click..."Backcountry ski Japan," enter, click..."Hokkaido powder," enter, click... I was confined to my of...
Features
Lost to the Avalanche
I received the call early in the morning on New Year’s Eve. I was in shock but could hear the voice on the other end saying the w...
Japan Snow Guide
Sno-Limo Brings Mountain Fun to Everyone
While you’re putting on your gloves and getting ready to jump on the chairlift this season, don’t be alarmed if you see someone ...
Backcountry Tours
Doing It Solo
December is upon us, so the snow up here in Hokkaido will be here to stay for a while. After a busy summer and fall of taking...
Japan Snow Guide
2007 Winter Gear Spotlight
Check out our favorite picks for the upcoming snow season. (mattress)CASCADE DESIGNSTherm-A-Rest PROLITE 4 ¥17,325 (Regular si...