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.
Nagano
Northern Shinshu’s Secret Stash
A weak yen, revenge travel, and excellent ski conditions have led to high demand, booking out popular resorts like Hakuba and Nozawa Onsen this year. Fortunately, lesser-known gems like Togari Onsen, near Nozawa Onsen and Madarao, offer charming alternatives for powder seekers.
Snowboarding
Yama Women
Despite challenges, women like Tayler Paulsen from Tasmania are shaping the snow sports landscape, addressing issues such as limited media coverage and disparities in equipment and training access. As a mom and advocate, Paulsen founded "Yama Women," offering specialized snowboard camps for female snow enthusiasts.
Climbing
Mt. Fuji: The Path Less Traveled
Fuji-san is the most climbed mountain in the world. If you are in good shape, there is a way to avoid the traffic for a more peaceful Mt. Fuji experience during the off-season.
Hokkaido
Dig Deeper into Eastern Hokkaido
Hokkaido winters are world-famous with luxury ski resorts and waist-deep powder snow. However, alternative winter activities, suc...
Backcountry Skiing
The Guardians of Zao
As winter enters into its deepest months of January, a natural phenomenon takes place on the slopes of Mt. Zao. Massive white...
Backcountry Snowboarding
Snow Surfing Japan’s Biggest Mountains
Interview with Tomoki Fuse With Bill Ross Photos Courtesy of Kammui Tokyo native Tomoki Fuse left one of the world’s l...
Adventure Travel
The Seduction of Touring
It’s a perfect Friday in early February. The sky is blue and there’s not much wind. While it’s a normal workday for most, the...
Japan Snow Guide
The Return to Japan
The past several years have been challenging for everyone. For travelers it’s been frustrating, especially so for those accus...