Want something to do at a ski resort but not a fan of skiing? No problem! Ishiuchi Maruyama Ski Resort in Niigata Prefecture has opened the new Snow Garden, a complex filled with cafes and activities held in transparent dome tents and terraces. Visitors can relax in an open space overlooking the gorgeous landscape without breaking a sweat. The Snow Village will be open until March 27, 2022.

Enjoy the panoramic view of the snow-covered Uonuma Plains and Niigata’s breathtaking mountains while enjoying a warm beverage and wonderful company. 

Nekoma Ski Resort, which is located on the northern slope of the Urabandai area, is holding a special spring ski event from March 30, 2020 called “Haru Nekoma ~Nekoma GO! GO! GO!”

The spring season at Nekoma Ski Resort is the time to enjoy the compacted snow berms, with lots of different kinds of berms to try out. So skiers can enjoy the snow berms that pile up in the early morning, the resort is open from from as early as 5:55, and there’s also snow lifts, so they can maximise their piste riding experience to the fullest. Skiers can enjoy the full view of Mount Bandaiーwhich is officially listed as one of the 100 most famous mountains in Japanーas well as Lake Inawashiro too as they hit the downhill ski trails.

Haru Nekoma ~Nekoma GO! GO! GO!

Running: March 30, 2020 – May 6, 2020

Times: [Weekdays] 7:30-15:00 / [Weekends & Public Holidays] 5:55-15:00

Lift Price: [1 Day Ticket] Adults ¥3,818 / Junior & High School Students ¥3,091 / Elementary School Students ¥1,909 (Before Tax)

Note: Dates and times subject to change depending on weather conditions

Ride the springtime pistes of Alts Bandai too

For the 2019-2020 season, you can ride the snow footpath that connects Nekoma Ski Resort to Alts Bandai. Go through the gate leading to it, walk through the Japanese beech trees for about 15 minutes, and you’ll arrive at the pistes in the deepest part of Alts Bandai which opens up to a spectacular view of Mount Bandai and the town of Inawashiro. Alts Bandai will be shut from March 29, but since there is still plenty of snow to ski down in the high-up pistes even in April, some of the lifts will still be operated. Enjoy a springtime walk and a springtime ski with the beautiful scenery before you with this special ski route.

Running: From March 20, 2020 until the snow melts

Gate Times: 10:00-13:30 (Last entries from Nekoma Ski Resort at 12:00)

Price: Free

Available Courses: Frozen 1, 2, 3 / Peak Lower 3 / Peak Lower 4

Note: A valid day ticket from Nekoma Ski Resort is required

Nekoma Terrace

Bask in the springtime weather at the foot of the pistes in the Nekoma Terrace which has its own bar. After an early morning ski, take a break and relax at the terrace with a drink in hand and soak up the scenery around you as the temperature warms through the day.

Spring Nekoma Terrace

Time: 10:00-14:00

Price: Alcohol ¥454 / Soft Drinks ¥182 (Before Tax)

Location: Nekoma Ski Resort Centre House

Spring discount tickets are also available, which can also be used at Alts Bandaiーwhich has the biggest pistes in Japanーuntil March 29. Ride across 189 hectares and enjoy 26 courses.

Spring Discount Tickets

Available: February 1, 2020 – May 6, 2020

Valid: March 1, 2020 – May 6, 2020

Price: Adults (20-23 Years) ¥20,000 / Junior & High School Students ¥10,909 / Elementary School Students ¥10,000 (Before Tax)

Sold at: Alts Bandai / Nekoma Ski Resort Official Homepage / Alts Bandai and Nekoma Ski Resort sites

The Hoshino Resort TOMAMU Ski Area, where you can enjoy one of the best powder snow experiences in Hokkaido, is introducing a new ‘auto gate system’ for the 2018-2019 winter season.

Japan’s ski population was a staggering 18 million in 1998, but today it’s less than half. But the fine quality of snow at Japan’s ski locations has garnered much attention abroad.

The new system being introduced enables people from all around the world regardless of nationality to purchase a lift ticket in advance on the resort’s homepage by credit card payment. This will save on waiting times to purchase a ticket on the day as guests will have already bought their tickets meaning they can board the lift without visiting the counter. They need only scan the QR code at the Pickup Box before which will have been given to them upon buying a ticket. This will issue a lift ticket.

All gondola lifts will be fitted with gates that read the IC chips on your issued ticket. Simply insert the ticket and head through the gate. This too allows for smoother and quicker access and guests will not have to show their ticket to staff every time.

If you’re never tried winter sports in Japan then why not visit Hoshino Resort TOMAMU for a stress free experience?

We previously covered 10 popular tourist spots and 7 must-visit cafes in Karuizawa where the Japanese reality TV show Terrace House, available on Netflix, was filmed.

In this article we’re taking a look at 6 locations picked up by the show where you can experience and enjoy winter sports in Karuizawa.

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obinata azumiさん(@bbong_gg0)がシェアした投稿 – 2018年 3月月4日午前2時43分PST

Karuizawa Kazakoshi Park Ice Arena

This is the ice ring where Tsubasa from the show trains for ice hockey. You can rent ice skates there and enjoy free time where all people can slide around the arena or you can get involved in any of the ongoing events. They even hold figure skating and ice hockey tournaments there.

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Kerachi Skate Rink

This is where Shion and Tsubasa go on a date together. An outdoor ice rink surrounded by a forest, Kerachi Skate Rink is managed by Hoshino Resorts and is open only during wintertime. Since the skate rink is enveloped by trees, you can enjoy the chirping of the birds and the view of Mount Asuma as you skate. The cafe there serves hot drinks which you can sip on the round benches on top of the ice to warm yourself up.

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Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort

This is the ski resort where Taka and Yuudai had fun snowboarding. It’s rife with outdoor activities so you can get your fill of nature. As well as skiing and snowboarding, they also bring out the zip-lines, lifts and four-wheeler buggies during the green season. You can also enjoy a spot of shopping, bowling and other thing after skiing, making it a great day out for the family.

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Yunomaru Ski Area

This is the ski resort that Shohei took Ami to. Enjoyed for its powder snow, Yunomaru Ski Area boasts a wide location where you can gaze at the Northern Alps. They also have sleds and a boat park. As well as this, there are hot spring facilities and a roadside station in the surrounding area which are great places to stop by on your way back.

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Resort Lodge Suzumoto

This is the lodge that Taka visited, situated 1300m high with the fresh air. Here you can enjoy activities throughout the year while surrounded by the lush environment that Sugadaira Kogen has to offer. It’s well known to people as a ski resort with a history spanning 75 years. After activities you can enjoy a handmade meal from the owner with Kogen’s famous vegetables. There’s also a convenience store within walking distance if you need a nighttime snack or some quick shopping.

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菅平高原スノーリゾートさん(@sugadaira_snowresort)がシェアした投稿 – 2018年 2月月7日午前4時11分PST

Sugadaira Kogen Snow Resort

Sugadaira Kogen Snow Resort is where Taka and Ami had their date. The site is split into two main skiing and snowboarding areas: the “Davos Area” and the “Taro Area.” The Taro Area is surrounded by trees and is home to the Taro Long Course. It’s a wide and the slope is steep so it’s recommended to advance skiers and snowboarders. The Davos Area on the other hand can be enjoyed even by beginners with its 1,000m long run. Guests can also enjoy trekking in snow shoes, taking the back country tour or getting involved with a lesson that suits your level.

Try challenging yourself to one of the many exciting winter sports available in Karuizawa!

Wintertime in Hokkaido means winter sports, like skiing and snowboarding. Every year, people from around Japan and overseas roll up to one of Hokkaido’s many popular snowy ski resorts, such as Niseko, Tomamu and Rusutsu.

Len S.さん(@lensak)がシェアした投稿 – 2017年 5月月1日午後8時04分PDT

Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu

Niseko Grand Hirafu is Japan’s largest winter resort, covering a huge area with an enormous amount of powder snow. It is the biggest of the four ski resorts in the Niseko area and boasts some of the largest quantity of powder snow around the world, gaining huge popularity from skiers overseas. There are 30 courses to pick from in addition to 15 lifts and 2 ski centers which are decked out in the latest facilities. Everything accommodates skiers of all levels from beginner to professionals. Enjoy gazing at Mount Yotei―one of the 100 famous mountains of Japan―while having the best snow experience you could imagine.

S.⍩⃝⃜✳︎さん(@nnnnn.nnn.nn)がシェアした投稿 – 2018年 2月月16日午前5時25分PST

Rusutsu Resort

Rusutsu Resort is a gigantic ski resort formed around Isola Mountain, the East Mountain and the West Mountain. Guests can enjoy plenty of space to ski in a magnificent location. There are 37 courses spanning 42km. Beginners can feel at ease at the wide open snow barn while intermedite and advance skiers can go straight for the freedom park or even the side country park which takes advantage of the natural shape of the mountain. There’s even sled dogs, ski mobiles, ice fishing and more. If you’re looking for lots of activities then Rusutsu Resort is the place to go.

Snya Mtaniさん(@mii._.iick)がシェアした投稿 – 2018年 2月月27日午後1時28分PST

Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Ski Area

This is the best ski resort in the Nisekoi area for beginners and families. There are 13 courses catered towards beginners that are spacious, simple and not scary. We recommend the Long Cruise when the weather’s nice which stretches 4,000 meters! After skiing you can enjoy a nice hot soak in the natural hot springs or open air baths to warm up!

池端 清美さん(@kiyomi.ikehata)がシェアした投稿 – 2018年 4月月13日午後8時52分PDT

Sapporo Teine

Sapporo Teine hosted several events for the 1972 Winter Olympics. The ski resort is located on Mt. Teine elevated 1,023m. It’s split into the upper Highland Zone and middle Olympia Zone with 15 courses to choose from which people of all ages can enjoy, including kids and adults alike. From the top of the mountain you can catch sight of the Sapporo towns and Ishikari Bay. It’s easily accessible by car just 40-minutes from central Sapporo.

chikanori uriyaさん(@uriuri72)がシェアした投稿 – 2018年 4月月12日午前3時55分PDT

Kiroro Resort

Kiroro claims to have the snowiest winter valleys on earth and boasts an abundance of powder snow with a 5m depth at the top of the mountain. This dreamlike world of silvery snow has 21 varied courses for beginners to expwerts. Beginners can choose from 3 different 2km beginner courses. There’s also a ski school for children from the age of 3 where they can learn the ins and outs of skiing. There’s also hot springs, a pool and more to enjoy in addition to skiing. There’s also an indoor entertainment facility which can be taken advantage of during in all weathers.

K.Ayaさん(@k.aya05)がシェアした投稿 – 2017年12月月16日午後8時25分PST

Hoshino Resorts Tomamu

Hoshino Resort Tomamu has a total of 29 courses for beginners to experts, with each course balanced perfectly for every skill level. It is the only ski resort in Hokkaido that has individual lanes for each level where you can enjoy safe and fun slope skiing. There’s also a 4,020m snow cart course―the longest in Japan―as well as lots of activities to pick from like snowmobiling, snow rafting, sledding night snow cruises and more. The resort is easily accessible from New Chitose Airport, Asahikawa Airport and Tokachi–Obihiro Airport too, making it a great choice when planning your trip.

Did you enjoy this list? Be sure you get the full Hokkaido experience by getting involved with the winter sports!

Okuibuki Snow Resort is the largest ski slope in the Kansai Region located in Yonehara-shi, Shiga Prefecture. The site will be opened until the 8^th of April.

​During March/April when spring skiing can be enjoyed, it is easy to get to the  ski slope since there is no snow on the roads. You don’t have to use winter tires for  most of the time and the weather conditions of the ski slopes are    good for most of the time.

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Events which offer discount lift tickets will be held on special days and periods such as Couple’s DAY, School appreciation Day and Junior/Senior appreciation Week.

In addition, parking fees during weekdays will be free from the 5^th of March.

Moreover, a “Garden Chair”area where you can view the slopes, will be installed in the open terrace. Why not enjoy winter sports during this spring season with your family, friends or your boyfriend/girlfriend!