Best Time to Ski in Japan: Guide to Powder, Seasons & Top Resorts

Japan's powder snow attracts millions of tourists annually; therefore, it is celebrated as one of the world's top skiing destinations. Featuring long periods of snowfall, world-class ski resorts, and various types of slopes, the country offers both seasoned professionals and first-timer skiers truly magical skiing experiences. So, when is the best time to ski in Japan?

Japan’s ski season runs roughly from December through March, though in mountainous areas, it already starts in late November. When going skiing in Japan in the depths of winter (January–February), you can expect the best conditions for skiers and snowboarders, as well as the unique allure of Japan in winter with the most beautiful snowy landscape. Whether it is a family trip or a couple’s vacation, skiing in Japan at the best time will bring you a lot of fun.

The Ski Season in Japan

In simple terms, the skiing season in Japan lasts from around late November to early May of the following year, for approximately six months. Of course, due to the large geographical span and significant climate differences in Japan, the length of the skiing season varies in different regions. Typically, the Uetsu Ski Resort in Ashikara Town, Hokkaido, opens in mid-December, being the earliest to open. While the Kusen Plateau Ski Resort in Nagano Prefecture is still open during the Golden Week in May, making it the latest to end.

The ski resorts in Hokkaido and the Tohoku region, such as Yubari, Furano, and Zanshu, have a long snow season, lasting until the end of April or even the beginning of May. In central Honshu, such as Nagano, Gifu, Hakuba Valley, and Shiga Plateau, usually the snowfall begins in mid-December and ends in late March or early April.

Peak Snow Period vs. Shoulder Season

From January to mid-February, the snowfall is the most stable and the snow accumulation is deep, resulting in the best powder snow (Japow) quality. Most ski resorts are open at high rates, and all ski runs and facilities are fully operational. This period is the peak season for skiing in Japan.

From late November to mid-December and from mid-March to mid-May, the snowfall may be insufficient or the powder snow may decrease. Some ski runs may not be open or have already been closed. These two periods are the off-season.

Best Time of Year to Ski in Japan (Best Months)

December: Early Ski Season

In December, Japanese ski resorts gradually open for the season. High-altitude resorts in Hokkaido (such as Niseko and Furano) and the Tohoku region typically open first around late November or early December, while popular ski destinations on Honshu like Nagano, Hakuba Valley, and Shiga Kogen fully open around mid-December. You can expect snow depths of 1–2 meters, with approximately 60% being natural powder snow.

By middle to late December, during the Christmas and New Year holidays, major ski resorts and nearby hot spring onsen towns are adorned with romantic holiday lights. Many resorts also host Christmas events and New Year’s Eve fireworks displays. Therefore, for families or couples, December is a good time to ski in Japan, with a festive atmosphere.

January: Peak Powder Season

January is the coldest month of the year in Japan, with low temperatures (about -15°C to -5°C in Hokkaido, and -10°C to 0°C in Honshu). Snow depth: 2-3 meters in Hokkaido, 1.5-2 meters in Honshu. The air is dry and the snow is light and powdery; therefore, it is just the time for the famous "Japow" powder snow. Ski resorts such as Nihonmatsu, Furano, Kiroro in Hokkaido, Zao and Appi Highland in the Tohoku region, and Baishamo Valley in Honshu have a powder snow proportion of over 80%.

It is the perfect time for advanced skiers and snowboarders to challenge wild and non-snow-packed slopes. January is the favorite time for European and Australian skiing enthusiasts to go skiing in Japan, so it is necessary to make a reservation at the resort in advance.

February: Best Overall Conditions

Although it is cold in February, it is slightly warmer than in January, with daytime temperatures reaching -5°C to 0°C. And there is still abundant snowfall, with new snowfall (in Hokkaido, there are 2-3 snowfalls per week). Moreover, the daytime is longer in February (1 hour longer than in January), therefore, you have more time to ski. In a world, February is the best time to ski in Japan throughout the year.

Additionally, one can participate in the Sapporo Snow Festival in early February and enjoy ice and snow art.

From beginners to advanced skiers, from families to couples, if you go skiing in Japan in February, you can not only ski but also enjoy winter onsen, delicious food, and snow festivals.

March: Spring Skiing in Japan

In March, the weather gradually warms up (daytime temperatures range from around 0°C to 10°C), the days get longer, and the sun shines brightly. Compared to the peak ski season in January and February, there are significantly fewer tourists in March, making it ideal for families with children and beginners. Although the snow quality in low-altitude areas begins to soften, Hokkaido and high-altitude resorts still have excellent snow conditions. Recommended ski resorts include Izawa in Nagano and Rusutsu in Hokkaido.

April–May: Late Season Skiing

By April–May, most low-altitude ski resorts in Japan have closed, but you can still ski in Hokkaido (such as Niseko and Furano) and high-altitude resorts (such as Hakuba Valley and Tanigawa).

However, the snow conditions tend to be wet and soft, making it more suitable for leisure skiing. If you are a backpacker or student on a budget, this is also a good time to ski in Japan—prices are cheaper. Surprisingly, you can still go skiing while enjoying the cherry blossoms.

Best Time to Ski in Japan by Destination

Niseko (in Hokkaido)

Best time to ski in Niseko: January – February
Best for: Professional skiers, powder snow enthusiasts

Niseko Ski Resort (or Niseko United) is renowned for its world-class powder snow, with fresh snow almost every day and an annual snowfall of over 14 meters, making it a paradise for advanced skiers. A four-resort pass grants access to diverse slopes, with night skiing available until 8:00 PM. It is recommended that you avoid the Chinese New Year holiday (late January to early February) when there are Chinese tourist crowds flocking to the ski resorts, to ensure a better experience and value for money.

Recommended Niseko Ski Tours:
★ 7-Day Hokkaido Ski Tour With Niseko Ski Resort
★ 13-Day Best of Hokkaido Winter Tour: Winter Festivals & Niseko Skiing

Hakuba (in Honshu)

Best time to ski in Hakuba: Mid-January – March (with more sunny days)
Best for: Family travelers, beginner to advanced skiers

Just an hour's drive from Nagano City, Hakuba Valley boasts several world-class ski resorts. In winter, you can enjoy abundant powder snow and, on clear days, take in the magnificent views of the Hida Mountains while skiing.

Recommended Hakuba Tours:
★ 12-Day Japan Winter Tour with Hakuba Skiing

Niigata (in Honshu)

Best time to ski in Niigata: February (Less crowded than Niseko, and other popular ski resorts in Hokkaido)
Best for: Skiers who want to avoid crowds and have a moderate budget

Niigata ski resorts receive ample snowfall, and there are many resorts (such as Myoko Kogen and Lotte Arai), but they are less crowded than Hokkaido and Hakuba, with lower prices.

When Is the Best Time to Ski in Japan for Different Travelers?

Snow Conditions by Month (Dec–Apr)

When to go skiing in Japan is largely snowfall-dependent.

Worst Time to Ski in Japan

1. Early December: The snowfall is unstable. Most ski resorts have just opened, with limited slopes and gondolas.

2. Late April: The snow quality is gradually deteriorating, without powder snow (or very little powder snow). Moreover, most ski resorts have closed, with only a few at high altitudes or in Hokkaido remaining open.

Plan Your Perfect Ski Trip with Hi Five Trip

Better yet, start planning your tailor-made Japan trip by contacting one of our Japan travel advisors.