It’s not secret, Japan has been a popular skiing destination for decades now. Popular with Australians for the lack of jet lag, and with people the world over for the quality of the powder, and unique après-ski culture.
Although some may choose to make snow sports the focus of their trip, dedicating time to traveling to multiple or remote locations. Others might want to spread their time across multiple cities and activities leaving only a day or two for snow sports – Japan has a lot to offer after all.
For that reason we have compiled four ski resorts within two hours of Tokyo, making for the perfect two day addition to any winter trip to Japan. Whether you’re an avid skier, snowboarder, or simply looking to enjoy the winter landscapes, these resorts provide a perfect balance of convenience and adventure.
1. Hakuba Valley (Nagano Prefecture)
Travel Time: ~2 hours by Shinkansen and bus Located in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Hakuba Valley is one of the most popular ski destinations in Japan and a go-to for both locals and international visitors. While it’s a bit on the edge of the two-hour range, it’s well worth the extra time, especially if you’re seeking variety and depth in a ski experience.
Skiing and Snowboarding: Hakuba Valley offers a vast range of slopes spread across multiple ski resorts, with the largest areas being Happo-One, Hakuba Goryu, and Hakuba 47. Collectively, the valley boasts more than 200 runs, ranging from beginner to advanced levels. The high altitude of the valley ensures good snow conditions throughout the ski season, which typically runs from late December to early April.
Happo-One is particularly popular, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It also hosted events during the 1998 Winter Olympics, adding to its reputation. For snowboarders, Hakuba’s powder snow and tree runs provide thrilling experiences, while skiers can enjoy expansive groomed runs and off-piste areas. The split between skiers and snowboarders is about 50/50, so there’s something for everyone!
Access: Taking the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano (about 1.5 hours), then transferring to a bus for the remaining 45 minutes or so will get you to the resort. Alternatively, there are direct highway buses from Shinjuku Station, which take about 5 hours. While a bit farther than some of the other options on this list, Hakuba’s extensive offerings make it a top destination for those seeking variety and adventure.
2. Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort (Nagano Prefecture)
Travel Time: ~1 hour by Shinkansen Karuizawa, a charming resort town located near the foot of Mount Asama in Nagano Prefecture, is an excellent choice for skiers looking for a quick getaway from Tokyo. Famous for its relaxed atmosphere, shopping outlets, and hot springs, Karuizawa also boasts a compact and family-friendly ski resort that offers just the right mix of convenience and quality.
Skiing and Snowboarding: Although Karuizawa is not the largest ski area in Japan, it’s perfect for those who want a short, convenient trip without sacrificing quality. The resort’s slopes are best suited for beginner to intermediate skiers, but it still provides a fun day out for everyone. The resort features a few runs for snowboarding, and its snow conditions are typically excellent thanks to snowmaking systems.
The base of the resort is easily accessible, and the entire family can enjoy both skiing and non-ski activities such as snowshoeing, snow tubing, and ice skating. The town itself offers a range of accommodations, from budget to luxury, making it a great destination for both day trips and weekend stays.
Access: Karuizawa is just one hour away from Tokyo Station via the Hokuriku Shinkansen. The station is connected directly to the resort via a short shuttle, making it incredibly easy to get to the slopes without needing any complicated transfers. For those coming from the city, Karuizawa is a quick and hassle-free way to enjoy a day on the slopes.
3. Nozawa Onsen (Nagano Prefecture)
Travel Time: ~2 hours by Shinkansen and bus Nozawa Onsen is a classic Japanese ski resort that combines excellent skiing with rich cultural heritage. Famous for its traditional hot spring baths, this village offers visitors the chance to experience not just skiing, but also the beauty of rural Japan in winter.
Skiing and Snowboarding: Nozawa Onsen is home to some of the best powder snow in Japan, thanks to its location in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture. The resort features 36 trails, ranging from beginner to expert level. With a healthy mix of terrain, Nozawa Onsen attracts both skiers and snowboarders alike. One of the most iconic aspects of Nozawa is the deep, dry powder snow that covers its slopes each winter, offering an ideal environment for powder skiing and off-piste adventures.
In addition to skiing, Nozawa Onsen is also known for its charming, quaint atmosphere. The resort village is scattered with historical onsens (hot springs), where visitors can soak after a long day on the slopes. The combination of skiing and traditional Japanese culture makes Nozawa Onsen a unique and unforgettable destination.
Access: To reach Nozawa Onsen, take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Iiyama Station (about 1.5 hours), and from there, take a 30-minute bus to the resort. Alternatively, there are highway buses from Shinjuku Station that take around 4 hours. Given the compact nature of Nozawa Onsen, getting to the resort is relatively straightforward, though it may take slightly longer than Karuizawa or other closer resorts.
4. Gala Yuzawa Ski Resort (Niigata Prefecture)
Travel Time: ~90 minutes by Shinkansen Gala Yuzawa is one of the most accessible ski resorts in Japan, offering an impressive array of activities and modern facilities. Located in Niigata Prefecture, Gala Yuzawa is a top choice for those looking for a hassle-free skiing experience with direct access from Tokyo.
Skiing and Snowboarding: Gala Yuzawa offers a range of slopes suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, including some excellent options for beginners. The resort features a snow park, dedicated areas for families, and plenty of open runs for more experienced skiers. One of the highlights of Gala Yuzawa is its high-speed lifts, which reduce wait times and maximize your time on the slopes.
What sets Gala Yuzawa apart from other resorts is its convenience. The resort is located directly next to the Shinkansen station, so visitors can literally step off the train and onto the slopes. In addition, the resort’s snow conditions are consistently excellent, ensuring a great experience throughout the winter months.
Access: Taking the Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Gala Yuzawa Station takes just 90 minutes. Upon arrival, skiers and snowboarders can take the ski shuttle directly to the resort, making it an incredibly easy destination to access for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
5. Fujiten Snow Resort (Yamanashi Prefecture)
Travel Time: ~2 hours by car or bus
Located just to the west of Tokyo, Mt. Fuji is not only an iconic symbol of Japan, but it also offers several smaller ski resorts within easy reach of the city. The Fujiten Ski Resort, located at the base of Mt. Fuji, is one of the most accessible, providing a great option for a quick getaway for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. While it may not have the extensive terrain of larger resorts, its proximity to Tokyo makes it a great choice for a short trip or a day on the slopes.
Skiing and Snowboarding: Fujiten Ski Resort offers a variety of runs, with around 10-15 slopes suitable for beginners and intermediate skiers. The resort also has snowboarding facilities, including terrain parks for freestyle riders. The spectacular views of Mt. Fuji while skiing create a unique experience that’s hard to beat.
Access: By car or bus, it’s only about a 2-hour journey from Tokyo, making it an excellent option for those who want a ski trip without the long travel time. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy skiing with breathtaking views of Japan’s most famous mountain, Mt. Fuji is the place to go.
6. Shiga Kogen (Nagano Prefecture)
Travel Time: ~3 to 3.5 hours by Shinkansen and bus
Shiga Kogen is one of Japan’s largest and most renowned ski areas, located in the heart of the Japanese Alps in Nagano Prefecture. While it’s just outside the 2-hour range, its expansive terrain and variety of resorts make it a highly popular destination for both beginner and expert skiers alike.
Skiing and Snowboarding: Shiga Kogen boasts over 80 runs spread across 19 different ski resorts, offering everything from wide-open groomed slopes to deep powder and challenging off-piste areas. With a long ski season running from late November to early May, it’s one of the best places in Japan for snow quality. Snowboarders will love the powder-filled slopes and terrain parks.
Access: To get to Shiga Kogen, take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano (about 1.5 hours), then transfer to a bus for a further 1.5 to 2 hours. While the travel time is just outside the 2-hour mark, the incredible variety and snow conditions make it worth the extra time.
7. Bandai (Fukushima Prefecture)
Travel Time: ~3 to 3.5 hours by train and bus
Located in the northern part of the Tohoku region, Bandai offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities with beautiful scenery, including views of Mount Bandai. This resort is known for its consistent snowfall and well-maintained runs, making it a good choice for a relaxed, uncrowded skiing experience.
Skiing and Snowboarding: Bandai has several ski areas, including the popular Alts Bandai and the Nekoma Ski Resort. These resorts offer a range of runs, from gentle beginner slopes to more challenging intermediate and advanced trails. Powder snow is abundant here, and snowboarders can find plenty of off-piste terrain to explore.
Access: Traveling from Tokyo, you’ll take the Shinkansen to Koriyama (about 1.5 hours), and then transfer to a bus for another 1.5 to 2 hours. While it’s a bit farther than some other resorts, Bandai’s quiet atmosphere and quality snow are a great option for those looking to escape the crowds.
8. Myoko Kogen (Niigata Prefecture)
Travel Time: ~3 to 3.5 hours by Shinkansen and bus
Located in Niigata Prefecture, Myoko Kogen is a famous ski destination offering a mix of traditional charm and modern facilities. The area has a variety of resorts, each offering unique experiences, and is known for its heavy snowfall and excellent powder conditions. It’s a bit further than the 2-hour range but offers a great balance of terrain and tranquility.
Skiing and Snowboarding: Myoko Kogen features multiple resorts, including Akakura Onsen, Akakura Kanko, and Ikenotaira. The terrain here is varied, with powder-filled backcountry runs, well-groomed slopes, and terrain parks. It’s an excellent choice for powder hounds and skiers looking for a more authentic experience without the crowds of larger resorts.
Access: To reach Myoko Kogen, you’ll take the Shinkansen to Joetsu-Myoko Station (about 2 hours), and then transfer to a bus or taxi for an additional 20-30 minutes. While the travel time is a little longer, the charm and snow quality of Myoko Kogen make it a rewarding destination for ski lovers.
9. Niseko (Hokkaido)
Travel Time: ~5 to 6 hours by flight and bus
While Niseko is famous worldwide for its powder snow and stunning views of Mt. Yotei, it’s significantly further from Tokyo, requiring a flight to Hokkaido and a transfer to the resort. Though it’s not within 2 hours of Tokyo, the journey is well worth it for serious skiers and snowboarders looking for some of the best snow conditions in the world.
Skiing and Snowboarding: Niseko is known for its deep powder snow, attracting skiers and snowboarders from around the world. The resort area features four main mountains: Annupuri, Niseko Village, Hirafu, and Hanazono. Together, they offer over 50 kilometers of terrain, including well-maintained runs, tree skiing, and off-piste areas. The variety of runs and consistent snow make Niseko a top choice for those seeking an exceptional powder experience.
Access: To reach Niseko from Tokyo, you’ll take a flight to New Chitose Airport (about 1.5 hours), then transfer by bus or train for another 2-2.5 hours. While the total travel time is significantly longer than 2 hours, the world-class skiing experience in Niseko is unparalleled and justifies the extra effort for avid skiers and snowboarders.
Conclusion
For those living in or visiting Tokyo, these four ski resorts provide diverse experiences, ranging from small, family-friendly options to expansive alpine resorts with world-class powder snow. Whether you’re seeking the convenience and accessibility of Gala Yuzawa, the traditional charm of Nozawa Onsen, the variety of Hakuba Valley, or the relaxed atmosphere of Karuizawa, each resort offers something unique and valuable for winter sports enthusiasts. With easy access by train, bus, or car, a winter adventure in the Japanese Alps is never too far from Tokyo. Happy skiing!
