Special feature on ski and snowboard day trips from Tokyo | 3 tours with foreign language guides

[Feature] 3 recommended ski and snowboard tours you can take on a day trip from Tokyo!

We will introduce three popular day trip plans for ski and snowboard tours from Tokyo.

All tours are accompanied by a foreign-speaking guide and will provide support from transportation to rentals, so even first-time visitors to regional areas can feel at ease.

Winter in Japan can be enjoyed in many ways, including snowy scenery, food, and sightseeing. Compare these and find the perfect winter experience for you in Japan.

Beginners welcome! Ski and snowboard experience tour (rentals included) | Tambara Ski Park

This is a one-day bus tour departing from Shinjuku that allows you to spend approximately 5 hours at Tambara Ski Park, aimed at people who want to casually start skiing or snowboarding.

Tambara Ski Park is located at an altitude of 1,550m, so you can experience the stable and fluffy snow of "Japow." Lift tickets and rental equipment are available on-site, so you only need to bring a minimum of gear.

Tambara Ski Park has many beginner-level courses, making it an easy ski resort to try even if you're new to skiing or snowboarding.

Tour details and reservations here

Snow fun and winter flavors! All-you-can-eat crab and strawberry tour | Tambara Ski Park

This is a one-day bus tour that allows even those who don't ski or snowboard or those with small children to fully experience Japanese winter, and allows you to experience both snow play and gourmet food all at once.

The snow play area at Tambara Ski Park is located at a high altitude and has a lot of snow, so you can enjoy sledding and playing in the snow.

After enjoying playing in the snow, you can enjoy a 50-minute all-you-can-eat crab lunch at Fruit Village Harada Farm! What's more, you can also enjoy a 30-minute strawberry picking experience and shop for dessert, where you can enjoy as many freshly picked strawberries as you like.

Tour details and reservations here

Experience snow and Japanese culture! Day trip with a stroll around Ouchijuku | Hunter Mountain Shiobara

Finally, we will introduce a day trip course that allows you to enjoy both snowy scenery and a stroll through Japan's historic townscapes.

At Hunter Mountain Shiobara, the whole family can enjoy playing in the snow at the kids' park, which features a sledding slope and a tubing course.

After enjoying a special bento lunch, you will move to Ouchi-juku, where traditional Japanese thatched roofs line the streets. You will be able to freely walk around the area, which retains the townscape of the Edo period, and there will also be plenty of time for photography and cultural experiences.

Tour details and reservations here

Which tour to choose? Recommended points by type

For those who want to enjoy skiing and snowboarding in Japan, we recommend the "Tanbara Ski Park Day Trip Plan," which ensures plenty of time for skiing.

For those who are not good at skiing or snowboarding but would like to enjoy playing in the snow and experiencing food at the same time, the all-you-can-eat crab and strawberry set course is perfect.

If you are interested in cultural exchange, walking around rural areas, and want to experience spectacular winter scenery and Japanese culture, the Hunter Mountain Shiobara tour, which includes a stroll around Ouchijuku, is perfect for you.

Why are ski and snowboard tours so popular among visitors to Japan right now?

The main reasons why skiing and snowboarding are so popular among visitors to Japan are that they can enjoy the light snow quality that is unique to Japan, known as "Japow," as well as the wide variety of experiences available outside of skiing, such as hot springs and local cuisine.

Furthermore, there is an increase in fulfilling day trip tours for foreigners that can be taken from Tokyo, making it easier to enjoy winter even with a shorter stay than before, which is also encouraging travelers.

[2025] Winter Trends to Watch

In the winter of 2025, attention to Japan's snow quality, known as "Japow," is expected to grow even more, with more travelers wanting to experience high-quality snow.

Additionally, trips that combine not only snow fun but also hot springs and local cuisine are becoming increasingly popular. This is especially true among Asian travelers experiencing snow for the first time, as well as European, American, and Australian travelers who prioritize cultural experiences. Day trips from Tokyo are also gaining attention as a more casual option.

This trend is also becoming a reality in the form of one-day bus tours, indicating that ways of enjoying seasonal travel are expanding.

Related article: Enjoy Japow skiing and snowboarding [including tips for planning your trip]

What is the appeal of tours with English and Chinese guides? | Orion Tours

Orion Tour offers plans with guides who can speak English and Chinese, and are known for providing support to ease any travel anxiety, such as guidance during travel.

We will introduce in detail what kind of attractions it has.

Language anxiety is eliminated

English and Chinese guides will ease the language concerns of foreign tourists and help them enjoy experiences such as skiing, snowboarding and playing in the snow.

There's no need to worry about situations that can take time if you don't understand the language, such as purchasing tickets or picking up rental items.

If you are unsure about commonly used local phrases, such as the names of ski areas and facilities, they will speak for you, making communication with Japanese staff smooth.

Supporting first-time travelers in Japan

They will clearly explain the meeting place and the schedule for the day, so even those who are not yet accustomed to traveling in Japan can participate calmly.

Your guide will also provide detailed instructions on basic points such as what to do once you arrive at the ski resort and where to get ready.

You can also rest assured that they will provide support with areas that may be confusing for first-time visitors, such as tips on how to ski and things to be careful of to stay safe.

Cultural experiences are possible while observing proper etiquette

In Japan, local rules and regulations for staying quiet are highly valued. If you are accompanied by an English or Chinese guide, you won't have to worry as they will tell you in advance about appropriate etiquette for the situation, such as where to take photos and where it is okay to use a selfie stick.

They also provide easy-to-understand explanations of situations where you need to be considerate of locals, so you can move around without getting lost even in places you're visiting for the first time. Knowing the correct manners will make your cultural experience in Japan even more enjoyable.

The benefits of a day trip by bus for skiing and snowboarding | Orion Tour

Orion Tour's bus plans are unique in that they take care of everything from transportation to preparations on site. This means you don't have to worry about arranging equipment or the itinerary, making it easy to enjoy winter even on a short stay.

We will introduce in detail what benefits it offers.

Transportation, rentals, and lift tickets all included in the package

Orion Tour's bus plan includes everything you need, from transportation to lift tickets and rentals, so you don't have to spend time preparing in advance.

A major attraction is that you can participate empty-handed, without having to separately arrange for skis, snowboards, clothing, etc.

Once you arrive at the location, follow your guide to pick up your rental gear and head straight to the slopes.

It's easy to end up with a lot of luggage when traveling to Japan, but with a set plan, you can reduce the burden of carrying it and make the most of your limited day.

Easy access by direct bus from Shinjuku

Orion Tour offers direct buses departing from Shinjuku, so you can reach your destination smoothly without having to worry about transfers.

Even when traveling in winter, when you tend to have a lot of luggage, you can sit back and relax while traveling on the bus, which is an added benefit as it puts less strain on your physical strength.

The road to the ski resort can be snowy, but if you take the bus you don't have to drive yourself, so you can participate with peace of mind.

You can experience this in just one day even if you're staying in Tokyo in the winter.

The appeal of a day trip bus tour is that you can easily enjoy snow even if you are staying in Tokyo. Even if you have limited time, you can experience Japan's snow to the fullest.

Departures are early in the morning and returns in the evening, making it easy to fit into your travel schedule, and if you're traveling to a ski resort within the Kanto region, travel time is short, making for an efficient trip.

Additionally, day trips with skiing, snowboarding, and other snow activities are all done on direct buses. Another great thing about these buses is that you don't have to worry about transfers and you can sit back and relax during the journey. Gazing out at the winter scenery from the bus window will make the journey itself a memorable one.

Single participants are also welcome!

The appeal of one-day bus tours is that they are easy to participate in even if you are traveling alone. Once you arrive at the meeting point, all you have to do is board the bus to get to your destination, so even if you are unfamiliar with the area, you can participate with peace of mind.

Even if you are traveling to a ski resort or tourist spot that is difficult to get to on your own, you can travel by bus without having to worry about transfers.

You can spend your free time at your own pace, skiing as you please, taking photos, and enjoying the unique aspects of traveling alone.

Who is a one-day ski/snowboard tour with a foreign language guide recommended for?

One-day ski and snowboard tours with guides in foreign languages are perfect for those who want to try skiing or snowboarding in Japan for the first time.

Just seeing the snow is a special experience, so it's also perfect for travelers who want to enjoy the scenery unique to winter.

It is also recommended for those who want to spend time together with friends and family, or for those who want to create more memories even during a busy trip.

The appeal of day-trip bus tours is that they can easily meet a wide range of needs and allow you to enjoy Japan's winter.

Things you should know about etiquette and cultural experiences at Japanese ski resorts

Each ski resort and tourist destination in Japan has its own unique way of enjoying the area. Knowing a few basics will help you feel at ease and make it easier to ask questions to your guide.

Basic etiquette to keep in mind at ski resorts

To ensure the safety of visitors at Japanese ski resorts, there are basic rules and etiquette to follow.

Knowing this in advance will help first-time visitors stay calm and avoid trouble with others.

Basic etiquette when strolling around historical areas

When visiting areas where traditional buildings remain, it is important to take the following precautions to preserve cultural assets while strolling around.

This kind of attitude will help you to enjoy a pleasant stroll while preserving the local atmosphere.

How to spend time at the all-you-can-eat venue

To make your all-you-can-eat experience even more enjoyable, it's helpful to know the following points:

If you make sure you and those around you are comfortable, you will be able to enjoy your dining experience in Japan more than anyone else.

How to apply for a day trip bus tour and points to note

Day bus tours such as Orion Tours can be easily booked online through their official websites. While it's easy to book, there are some differences from travel booking sites in your home country.

Especially when booking a day trip bus tour within Japan, it is a good idea to check the departure time, what to bring, cancellation policy, etc. in advance.

Check the departure time, belongings, and clothing

Even if the tour says "come empty-handed," small items like gloves and hats may not be included in the set depending on the tour. It's a good idea to check the tour website in advance to see what rental items are included. Prepare and pack anything you need for the tour the day before so you don't have to rush on the day.

Also, departure times are often early, so be sure to prepare your clothes and belongings well in advance so that you can leave without rushing in the morning.

Check the weather change and cancellation policy

Each travel agency that operates a day trip bus tour has different cancellation policies and rules for operating in bad weather. It's helpful to check these before booking, as this will help you avoid any issues on the day.

The weather can change quickly, especially in winter, so it's a good idea to check the tour's cancellation criteria and refund conditions. If you check the weather forecast frequently and understand the situation in advance, you'll be able to calmly respond to any changes to your plans on the day.

Enjoy Japan's winter to the fullest with this recommended one-day ski and snowboard tour!

The appeal of one-day ski and snowboard tours, which can be easily joined from Tokyo, is that you can experience winter in Japan even if you only have a limited amount of time.

In addition to courses that focus on spending the day skiing and snowboarding, there is a wide range of options, from plans to enjoy the snowy scenery to courses that allow you to experience food and culture. A winter day spent in Tokyo is sure to become a special memory that will stay with you forever.

If you find a tour that interests you after reading this feature article, why not compare it to see how you can enjoy it to suit your travel style?