

Japan
Time Zone
GMT+9
Currency
Japanese Yen​​
Visa
Not required​​
Language
Japanese
Flight time
approx 11 hrs 30 mins from LHR
Season
December - April​​
Stay for a week for as little as £1,995 pp
Ski info
​Here, it's all about skiing in the soft stuff, and on days with heavy snow, the birch trees that blanket the majority of the mountainside make the ideal playground. In general, Japan's ski resorts are open from December to April. January and February have the most snowfall, with flakes falling for weeks at a time. Additionally, resorts are at their busiest at this time, particularly if Chinese New Year falls with Australian school breaks. Low-light goggles are essential because temperatures can drop to about -10°C and there will likely be a lot of gloomy weather.
Travel info
British citizens are not required to obtain a visa for travel to Japan, all you need is a valid passport.
Additionally, you will need a valid insurance policy that includes coverage for winter sports when you book your ski holiday with us.
​Japan is renowned for its world-class ski resorts, particularly in regions like Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps. While popular destinations like Niseko and Hakuba attract many tourists, hidden gems await discovery. Resorts like Shiga Kogen, Japan's largest ski area, offer diverse runs and fewer crowds.
Meanwhile, resorts like Nozawa Onsen blend traditional hot springs with skiing, creating a unique experience. These lesser-known spots provide breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and a chance to enjoy Japan’s winter wonderland away from the hustle.

Our favourite resort

Shiga Kogen
Nearest Airports: Tokyo (4 hrs)
Altitude: 2,000m
Shiga Kogen Ski Resort, located in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and exceptional skiing conditions. Spanning over 1,200 hectares, it is one of the largest ski areas in Japan, offering a variety of slopes suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. The resort features 21 interconnected ski areas, providing over 80 runs and 57 ski lifts.
Visitors can enjoy not only skiing and snowboarding but also a range of other winter activities, including snowshoeing and snowmobiling. The stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including the iconic Shiga Kogen mountains, add to the allure of the destination.
In addition to winter sports, Shiga Kogen is famous for its hot springs, or onsens, where visitors can relax after a day on the slopes. With its vibrant atmosphere, diverse activities, and rich cultural experiences, Shiga Kogen Ski Resort is a must-visit for winter sports enthusiasts.