Enjoy powder snow and tree runs! Ranking of the most popular ski resorts in Japan

Japanese ski resorts are becoming increasingly popular worldwide!

Did you know that in recent years, Japanese ski resorts have been attracting attention and popularity from all over the world?

Many ski resorts in Japan have slopes where fine, powdery snow falls, and the snow quality is so outstanding that it is commonly referred to as "japow."

In recent years, the number of foreign tourists who come to Japan not only for the powder snow but also for tree runs, where you can ski on the ungroomed snow between the trees, is increasing. In response to this demand, the number of ski resorts that offer tree runs is gradually increasing.

This time, we will introduce a ranking of ski resorts where you can enjoy powder snow and tree runs.

Top 15 ski resorts with the best powder snow

First, we will introduce ski resorts that are popular for their smooth powder snow. Among them, the Hakuba Valley ski resorts in Nagano Prefecture attract many tourists from overseas because of the large amounts of dry powder snow that falls due to the high altitude and low temperatures.

[1st place] Tsugaike Kogen Ski Resort (Nagano Prefecture)

Tsugaike Kogen Ski Resort is located in the foothills of Mount Hakuba in the Northern Alps. Its greatest attraction is the excellent powder snow, known as "TSUGA POW."

If you take the lecture program "TSUGA POW DBD" and agree to the safety standards, you can ski on the ungroomed areas. Another reason for its popularity is that you can take a gondola and lift to the top of the slope at an altitude of 1,704m.

TSUGA POW has many fans, and many skiers and snowboarders visit every year in search of the natural snow of the Northern Alps. You can rest assured that thorough safety management is in place so that many people can enjoy this special powder riding experience.

The longest runs and the length of the season are also attractive. The longest runs are 5,000m during the high season, and the season lasts until early May, so it is popular with people who want to enjoy winter sports to their heart's content.

The most popular course for beginners and families is the "Kane no Naru Oka Slope." The course is about 1,200m wide and is said to be one of the largest in Japan, with a gentle slope that allows you to practice with confidence.

Click here for the official website of Tsugaike Kogen Ski Resort

[Second place] Hakuba Happo-one Ski Resort (Nagano Prefecture)

Hakuba Happo-One Ski Resort is one of Japan's world-famous ski resorts, and was the venue for the Nagano Winter Olympics in 1998. The excellent quality of the snow has many fans overseas, and it is visited by skiers and snowboarders who are particular about powder riding.

A "powder meter" system that allows users to check the amount of snowfall and snow quality overnight is scheduled to be introduced in February 2023. Users can now check the conditions at the ski resort on their smartphones, and an app is also available that allows users to receive push notifications when snowfall occurs.

Another must-see is the magnificent panoramic view of the Northern Alps that can be seen from the summit at an altitude of 1,831m. While powder riding while enjoying the scenery is great, we also recommend the restaurant and cafe where you can dine while taking in the spectacular view from an altitude of 1,680m.

Click here for the official website of Hakuba Happo-one Ski Resort

[3rd Place] Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort (Nagano Prefecture)

The finest powder snow that can be enjoyed at Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort is famous and has many fans overseas. The season is long and you can ski until early May, so it is recommended to visit at different times of the year.

The course, which stretches out around the foot of Mount Kenashi, 1,650 meters above sea level, offers a panoramic view of Nagano's natural beauty, and on clear days it is also popular for its magnificent views overlooking the Sea of Japan.

Powder riding enthusiasts should try the "Challenge 39° Wall" at an altitude of 1,070-900m. This is the steepest slope in the ski resort, at 39 degrees, and you can enjoy powder snow for a total length of 300m.

When visiting Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort, why not stop by the hot spring town as well? There are 13 baths in the hot spring town that use 100% natural hot spring water, and hot spring hopping, known as "outdoor bathing," is also popular.

Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort official website

[4th place] Furano Ski Resort (Hokkaido)

For those who want to ski freely on a spacious slope, we recommend Furano Ski Resort in Hokkaido. About 80% of the 28 courses are beginner to intermediate areas, so even families and winter sports novices can enjoy the powder snow with peace of mind.

For those looking for both powder snow and moguls, the Furano Zone at the top of the Furano Ski Resort is the perfect choice. This is an advanced course where you can experience dynamic powder landings while looking out over the silver world below.

For small children who are worried about hitting the slopes for the first time, there is also the world's only kids' ski magic lesson program, "Pandaruman Kids School." They provide original skis and artificial mat slopes to support their debut on the slopes.

Furano Ski Resort is attached to the Furano Prince Hotel, so you can combine your stay with a stay at the resort. There are also great value accommodation plans that include a lift ticket, so many visitors also enjoy sightseeing in Furano.

Furano Ski Resort official website

[5th place] Kagura Ski Resort (Niigata)

Kagura Ski Resort is located at an altitude of 1,845m and receives a large amount of high-quality snow. It is also known for its long season, with powder snow from December to March and spring skiing in April and May.

The wide variety of 30 courses is also an attraction, and there are three courses where you can enjoy powder snow. Among them, the "Forest Expert Course" for advanced skiers is an ungroomed course surrounded by silvery white coniferous forests, with a maximum slope of 30 degrees and a run length of 661 m, making it an extremely satisfying experience.

Of course, there are also courses that beginners and intermediate skiers can enjoy. The "Kagura Main Slope" offers a panoramic view of the foothills from an altitude of 1,700m, and is a spacious course that is loved by people of all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. The upper part is slightly inclined, but there is a detour in the middle of the course, so it is also suitable for beginners making their first visit to Kagura.

Kagura Ski Resort is connected to Naeba Ski Resort by the Dragon Dora, and if you purchase a joint ticket you can freely ski at both resorts.

The official website of Kagura Ski Resort is here

[6th place] Hakuba Norikura Onsen Ski Resort (Nagano Prefecture)

Hakuba Norikura Onsen Ski Resort is located inland among the 10 ski resorts in the Hakuba Valley, and is known for the large amounts of dry, powdery snow that falls due to its high altitude.

There are a total of 14 courses, with a good balance of levels from beginner to advanced. The Hakunori Family Course, which features a gentle slope, is a great place for children to make their debut on the slopes, even if it's their first time putting on skis.

For those who want to enjoy both the spectacular views of Hakuba and the powder snow, the Sky View Slope, with an average slope of 25 degrees, is popular. On snowy days, you can enjoy deep powder, and even experienced skiers and snowboarders will be very satisfied with the experience.

For those who want to try dynamic riding, there is also a "Snow Park" and a "Mogul Course." The secret to its popularity is that you can enjoy the experience at your own pace.

Click here for the official website of Hakuba Norikura Onsen Ski Resort

[7th place] Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort (Nagano Prefecture)

Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort, adjacent to Hakuba Norikura Onsen Ski Resort, also boasts 100% natural powder snow. The soft, dry snow keeps you dry even if you fall, making it a great choice for those new to the slopes or powder riding. Almost all trails meet up in front of the hotel at the foot of the slopes, making it a safe place for families with children to enjoy.

If you don't mind hiking through the forest, we recommend you enjoy the spectacular view from the "Hiedayama Forest Course." Not only can you see the beautiful silver world at a maximum altitude of 1,402m, but you must also see the fantastic frost-covered trees that are unique to the forest course.

A free shuttle bus runs from the nearest JR Minami Otari Station to the Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort. You can also enjoy a day trip to the hot springs at the official hotel, Hotel Green Plaza Hakuba, located right in front of the resort.

Click here for the official website of Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort

[8th place] Madarao Kogen Ski Resort (Nagano Prefecture)

Madarao Kogen Ski Resort, located in one of Japan's snowiest areas, is known for its powdery snow, nicknamed "Madapow" by winter sports fans. The north-facing slope along the valley receives a lot of snow and is less exposed to the sun, so you can enjoy soft, smooth snow whenever you go.

It is a popular spot that attracts many tourists from overseas, especially during the high season when you can enjoy deep powder.

Another reason for its popularity is the wide variety of 31 courses. From the advanced course with a maximum slope of 35 degrees, where the Mogul World Cup has been held, to the beginner course where you can ski at your own pace, you can freely choose according to your ability and the conditions of the day.

At the bottom of the slope, the Madarao Kogen Hotel is equipped with its own natural hot spring and sauna where you can relax. This is a ski resort where you can thoroughly enjoy a day at the resort, where you can thoroughly wash away the sweat after bathing in powder snow.

Madarao Ski Resort official website

[9th place] Marunuma Kogen Ski Resort (Gunma Prefecture)

Marunuma Kogen Ski Resort, which stretches towards Mount Nikko Shirane, famous as the highest peak in the Kanto region, is known for the large amounts of high-quality powder snow that falls there due to its high altitude. The snow quality is some of the lightest in the area, and on days when it snows, it is popular for being able to enjoy fluffy natural snow.

Among them, the ungroomed course stretches for a total length of 755m, with a long mogul slope with a maximum gradient of 32 degrees, making for an undeniable challenge. The beginner course is also spacious, so even those who are not used to riding on powder snow can ski with confidence.

Marunuma Kogen Ski Resort is also packed with great spots for families with small children. At the kids' space on the second floor of the center station at the foot of the slope, you can enjoy attractions such as bouldering.

Click here for the official Marunuma Kogen Ski Resort website

[10th place] Able Hakuba Goryu Ski Resort (Nagano Prefecture)

Able Hakuba Goryu Ski Resort, located in Hakuba Village in the Hakuba Valley, is popular for its excellent snow quality, views, and wide variety of runs.

For those who want to enjoy powder snow, we recommend the ungroomed technical course. It is especially spectacular after a snowfall, when you can enjoy the fine, dry snow that rises up into the air. For advanced skiers, we also recommend the Champion Expert course, with a maximum slope of 35 degrees. This course is lined with deep moguls, and even skiers and snowboarders with considerable technique will be very satisfied with the experience.

The lift ticket is a joint ticket with the neighboring Hakuba47 Winter Sports Park, so you can enjoy two different slopes with one pass. Night skiing is also available, so it's recommended for those who want to ski all day.

Click here for the official website of Able Hakuba Goryu Ski Resort

[No. 11] Hakuba47 Winter Sports Park (Nagano Prefecture)

For those who prefer dynamic riding, we recommend Hakuba47 Winter Sports Park. Route 3, located right in front of the Gondola Summit Station, is an ungroomed area with a maximum slope of 32 degrees, and features natural moguls.

Hakuba47 is also known for its great views, and the view from the top of Route 1, which runs down the middle, of the silver world and the snow-covered Hakuba village area is breathtakingly beautiful.

Another popular attraction is 47PARKS, the largest and highest quality snow park in the Hakuba area. It has detailed courses for everyone from beginners to advanced skiers, so even those who are not used to snow parks can enjoy the powder snow.

Hakuba47 Winter Sports Park official website

[12th place] White World One Iwakura Ski Resort (Gunma Prefecture)

White World Oni Iwakura Ski Resort is known as one of the biggest slopes in the Kanto region. Six of the 16 courses are ungroomed areas where you can enjoy powder snow. The courses take advantage of the natural terrain, and are popular for the high-quality powder snow.

The ungroomed "National Athletic Meet Men's Course" is a slope that offers a long ride of 1,800m in length. You can ski leisurely while looking out at the mountains of Gunma. For those who want to ski more dynamically, we recommend the "Milky Way" course, which is 2,800m in length. It is also spacious, with a width of 40 to 60m, so you can ski with confidence.

White World Onne Iwakura Ski Resort is full of activities that everyone can enjoy, even with small children. The kids-only slope "Rock'n Square" has many activities such as sledding, tubing, snow striders, and air domes, and is also equipped with a snow escalator.

Click here for the official website of White World Ridge Iwakura Ski Resort

[13th place] Rusutsu Resort (Hokkaido)

Rusutsu Resort in Hokkaido is popular among overseas travelers who want to enjoy not only winter sports, but also Japanese gourmet food, hot springs, and the great outdoors.

Rusutsu Resort's slopes are made up of three areas: East Mt. and West Mt., which are centered around the hotel, and Mt. Isola, which towers further west.

The Sky Course, an ungroomed course that starts just below the summit of the West Mountain, is a popular area for advanced skiers, with high-quality powder snow and deep moguls. Near the summit of the East Mountain, the Super East Course, with a maximum slope of 40 degrees, is popular, and the deep powder after a heavy snowfall is exceptional.

One of the attractions of Rusutsu Resort is that you can enjoy a luxurious time while refreshing both body and mind in an environment surrounded by the blessings of nature. Rusutsu Resort Hotel offers accommodation plans that include lift tickets and meal tickets, and you can also enjoy the open-air baths and seasonal Hokkaido flavors.

Rusutsu Resort official website

[14th place] Okushiga Kogen Ski Resort (Nagano Prefecture)

Okushiga Kogen is said to be the largest snow area in Japan, and Okushiga Kogen Ski Resort, located at the very back of the area, is particularly popular for the large amounts of high-quality powder snow that falls.

There are 10 courses to choose from, from beginners to advanced skiers, depending on your ability and preferences. For those who want to enjoy both the snow quality and the view, we recommend the Forest Course. This popular course allows you to ski surrounded by a beautiful silver world, with snow-capped trees lining both sides. If you're looking for ungroomed powder snow, the advanced Bear Drop Course is the best choice. It is the steepest slope in Okushiga Kogen, but the smooth skiing and deep powder will have you hooked.

If you're visiting Okushiga Kogen Ski Resort, be sure to check out the accommodation options. Okushiga Kogen has two resort hotels and eight pensions, perfect for families and friends staying for a few days. For those who want to improve their skiing skills in earnest, there are also lodgings run directly by ski schools, which are convenient for those who want to take intensive lessons in a short period of time.

Click here for the official website of Okushiga Kogen Ski Resort

[15th place] Akakura Onsen Ski Resort (Niigata Prefecture)

Akakura Onsen Ski Resort in Niigata Prefecture is known as one of the snowiest areas in Japan, and its biggest attraction is that you can enjoy the finest powder snow, which is 100% natural, all year round.

The large slope that spreads out at the foot of Mt. Myoko has a total of 17 courses, making it a ski resort that can satisfy everyone, from advanced skiers to beginners and children making their debut on the slopes.

The main "Panorama Course" is a wide, long course for intermediate skiers. For those who want to fully enjoy the powder snow, the "Mogul Challenge Course" is popular. It is the steepest slope at Akakura Onsen Ski Resort, and since the snow is not groomed, you may encounter moguls even after snowfall.

Akakura Onsen Ski Resort official website

Top 5 ski resorts with tree runs

Many ski resorts open tree run areas, where you slide through the trees, as ungroomed areas, so you can enjoy powder snow at the same time.

From here, we will introduce recommended ski resorts where you can enjoy tree running. These ski resorts allow you to ski while feeling the dynamic nature, so tree running fans should definitely check them out.

[No. 1] Madarao Kogen Ski Resort (Nagano Prefecture)

Madarao Kogen Ski Resort in Nagano Prefecture boasts the most tree running courses in Japan.

The resort boasts courses that make the most of the natural terrain, and at the same time, you can enjoy the finest powder snow, renowned as "Madapow."

One of the most popular courses is "Powder Wave 2," where trees are spaced perfectly for powder tree running. With a maximum gradient of 35 degrees and a total length of 800m, this dynamic area tickles the sense of adventure, and attracts many tree running enthusiasts.

For those who are not satisfied with just a simple tree run, "NINJA" is also popular, which features a ladder jump within the tree run course. The experience of jumping from a height of 7m (4-5m when it snows) into powder snow is something that you can hardly find at other ski resorts.

The half-pipe course "SAWA" is also popular. The appeal of Madarao Kogen Ski Resort is not only the powder snow and tree runs, but also the opportunity to experience the great outdoors with your whole body.

[Second Place] Hakuba47 Winter Sports Park (Nagano Prefecture)

Hakuba47 Winter Sports Park is unique in that it has a course specialized for tree running called the "Tree Riding Zone."

The Hakuba area is also famous for its strict safety management for tree runs. At Hakuba47 Winter Sports Park, you must register to ski in the tree riding zone, and you must agree to the rules and precautions for skiing in advance. The pre-seminar includes watching a video, so be sure to check it out before arriving at the ski resort.

As we mentioned in our powder snow ranking, Hakuba47 Winter Sports Park is a ski resort that is also attractive for its smooth, ungroomed powder. The quality of the snow the morning after it snows overnight is particularly exceptional, so if you love powder and tree runs, we recommend you experience it at least once.

[3rd Place] Tsugaike Ski Resort (Nagano Prefecture)

Tsugaike Kogen Ski Resort is popular for the excellent quality of its powder snow, but another highlight not to be missed is that you can also enjoy tree running if you take a lecture program beforehand.

The vast powder area in the middle of the ski resort is called the "Tsugapow Area" because it is an area where you can enjoy "TSUGAPOW," the charm of Tsugaike Kogen.

There are five gates in total in the "Tsuga Pau Area," a powder run/tree run course. Patrols check the condition of the course every day, and the gates are opened and closed according to the condition of the slopes and the weather, under a thorough management system.

The dynamic courses, which make use of the natural terrain and trees, are a great challenge that is sure to attract many fans from both within Japan and overseas. This is a ski resort that advanced skiers should definitely try at least once.

[4th place] Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort (Nagano Prefecture)

Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort boasts superb snow quality, made from 100% natural snow, and is characterized by its wide skiable area and high degree of freedom.

The "Tree Area" for advanced skiers is not leveled or managed for safety, allowing you to truly experience "snowboarding in nature." The thrilling snowfall is so great that even the official website states that it is a "self-responsibility area."

Since it is a self-responsibility area, if you are unsure about whether to try it, be sure to check out the "Details and skiing report here!" section on the slope map page. The videos of the area will make you feel like you are actually there, and you can also see the impressions of people who have visited from overseas, so it is a good idea to refer to them.

[No. 5] Shiga Kogen Yakebitaiyama Ski Resort (Nagano Prefecture)

The "Giant Slalom" at Shiga Kogen Yakebitaiyama Ski Resort is an impressive ski resort with a beautiful coniferous forest. It is a moderate course with an average gradient of 11 degrees that starts at an altitude of about 2,000m, but with a total length of over 2,000m, it is an undeniably challenging ski run.

As you proceed along the course, you will come across ungroomed areas covered in silvery white coniferous forests. The snow at Shiga Kogen Yakebitaiyama Ski Resort is characterized by its dry and light snow quality. The high-quality snow, also known as "platinum powder," allows you to enjoy the slopes in good condition throughout the season.

In addition, you can enjoy a wide variety of 20 courses, and a joint pass with the neighboring Okushiga Kogen Ski Resort is also available for purchase, making it the perfect environment for those who want to fully enjoy powder runs and tree runs.

Click here for the official website of Shiga Kogen Yakebitaiyama Ski Resort

Tips for choosing a ski resort where you can enjoy powder snow and tree runs

When choosing a ski resort where you can enjoy powder snow and tree runs, there are three things you should check.

High altitude

High altitude areas tend to have lower temperatures than flat areas, meaning there is a higher chance of light, powdery snow falling. Among the ski resorts introduced here, Nagano Prefecture has many that are located at high altitudes. If there is snowfall overnight, the slopes are reset, so even those who want to stay overnight and ski will be satisfied.

The slope faces north

The snow on north-facing slopes is less exposed to sunlight, meaning it melts less quickly and maintains good quality snow throughout the day.

Low hours of sunlight

Ski resorts located deep in the mountains, such as Okushiga Kogen Ski Resort, which receives little sunlight, are recommended as the snow quality changes little.

Please use the characteristics of each ski resort introduced here as a reference when choosing a ski resort.

Hakuba Valley is a popular spot with enthusiastic fans all over the world.

The Hakuba area ski resorts, which were ranked this time, are collectively known as the "Hakuba Valley," and are a major tourist spot. Here are three reasons why Hakuba Valley has become so popular.

Enjoy high-quality powder snow

Hakuba Valley ski resort is built on the mountainous terrain of the Northern Alps at an altitude of about 3,000m, and is characterized by the large amount of high-quality powder snow that falls. The high altitude means that the snow remains smooth and pleasant not only immediately after snowfall, but even after some time has passed. No matter when you go, the skiing experience exceeds expectations, which is a great point for winter sports fans.

Furthermore, the Hakuba area has courses that take advantage of the natural undulations of the terrain and areas dedicated to tree running that leave the forest trees intact, making it an attractive place where you will never get bored, no matter how many times you visit.

A combined ticket that allows you to enjoy all the ski resorts is also available.

Hakuba Valley is home to 10 ski resorts, and you can visit them all by purchasing a common lift ticket for all of them.

There are 10 types of lift tickets that can be used at all ski resorts, ranging from 1-day passes to 10-day passes. Each ski resort can be accessed by shuttle bus, so you can enjoy a gentle ski resort with many beginner-friendly runs on the first day, a ski resort with a spectacular view on the next day, and a challenging advanced run on the last day.

Easy access from all directions

For tourists coming from overseas to visit Japan's ski resorts, good access from airports and terminal stations is an important factor in deciding their destination.

Hakuba Valley can be reached in about three hours from Tokyo and five hours from Osaka, making it a great place to plan a day trip skiing after touring Japan's famous tourist spots.

For tourists who are looking to experience Japan's powder snow and tree running, the convenient express bus " Snowliner " is a convenient option. It goes directly to Hakuba Valley from Japan's gateways of Haneda and Narita Airports, as well as Yokohama, another popular tourist destination, making it easy for first-time visitors to Japan and those traveling with large luggage.

Snowliner reservations here

summary

Japan has many ski resorts where you can enjoy powder snow and tree runs, and Hakuba Valley in particular is a popular area that has attracted a lot of attention from overseas due to its excellent snow quality and abundance of runs.

Of course, researching ski resorts is important, but it's also important to secure transportation that will get you there as quickly and easily as possible.

If you use the " Snow Liner " you can go directly from the airport to Hakuba Valley. Make good use of this service and enjoy skiing and snowboarding in Japan to your heart's content.