Japan Ski Guide powered by SURF&SNOW

Language

Ski & Snowboard

Currently, skiers and snowboarders worldwide are focusing on Japan's powder snow, often referred to as "JAPOW." The snow quality and snowfall levels are at the top globally. During the high season, many foreigners come seeking JAPOW. Here, we introduce ski resorts where you can easily experience Japan's powder snow within the resort. This season, aim for the best timing right after a fresh snowfall and enjoy the powder snow to the fullest.

An area with unique topography and favorable geographical conditions, making it one of Japan's premier powder snow regions.

Powder snow is not something you can enjoy anytime, anywhere. The presence of high-quality powder snow is influenced by seasonal and geographical conditions. Visiting ski resorts in areas with heavy snowfall during the peak season increases the likelihood of skiing on powder. After a snowfall, skiers and snowboarders aiming for powder conditions gather in these areas. Let's introduce popular ski resorts known for their powder snow.

Experience world-renowned powder and breathtaking vistas that capture global attention.＜Hakuba Happo-One Ski Resort＞

Hakuba Happo-One is renowned for its stunning panorama of the Northern Alps and world-acclaimed premium powder. The annual snowfall averages around 100 to 240 cm, featuring the dry, fluffy snow characteristic of Nagano. For powder enthusiasts, the recommended time to visit is from January to February.
In Hakuba Happo-One, the ultimate destination for powder enthusiasts is the advanced-level premium powder area known as 'おむすび-OMUSUBI-.' This dynamic non-groomed area spans up to 500 meters, providing an exceptional powder experience. Another notable powder run is the '展望コース' (Scenic Course) designed for advanced skiers, boasting slopes with a maximum incline of over 35 degrees and offering panoramic views of the Southern Alps from the starting point.
The detailed information about Hakuba Happo-One's course guide can be found here.

Experience world-renowned powder and breathtaking vistas.＜Tsugaike Mountain Resort＞

To enjoy the powder snow known as 'TSUGA POW' in Togakushi, there is a program called 'TSUGA POW DBD,' which involves attending a lecture and completing a designated procedure. The TSUGA POW DBD area is surrounded by the Han no Ki slope and Uma no Se course in the central part of the ski resort. Only skiers and snowboarders who have attended the specified lecture and completed the required procedures are allowed to ski in this designated area.
Recommended for powder beginners is the Han no Ki slope, starting from the gondola mountaintop station. With a wide slope extending for 3 km and fresh snow along the course, even powder novices can easily take on the challenge.
The detailed information about Tsugaike Mountain Resort and TSUGA POW DBD can be found here.
The detailed information about Tsugaike Mountain Resort and the slopes can be found here.

The iconic powder course in Hakuba Valley that attracts powder enthusiasts.＜Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort＞

Located at the northernmost part of Hakuba Valley with abundant snowfall and high-quality powder snow, Hakuba Cortina boasts a reputation for being the area's premier destination for 100% natural powder. One highly recommended course is the Hieda-yama Course 2. Accessible via Cortina 4th lift, this course spans 625 meters with a maximum slope of 42 degrees and an average slope of 36 degrees, making it an advanced-level course. Known for its excellent snow quality, particularly on the north-facing slope, it attracts many skiers and snowboarders seeking powder after each snowfall.
The detailed information about Hakuba Cortina and the slopes can be found here.

This hidden gem of a powder course is known to those in the know!

Famous powder courses often draw crowds right after a snowfall, leaving tracks quickly. That's why the spotlight is on hidden gem powder courses. Every ski resort has its own lesser-known powder gems, known only to a select few. These spots are free from crowds, allowing you to enjoy powder at your own pace.

The off-piste area on the north side of the Kurobishi 3rd Pair Lift at an elevation of 1600m.＜Hakuba Happo-One Ski Resort＞

Considered the most challenging at Hakuba Happo-One is 'Urakuro.' Against the backdrop of the dynamic Northern Alps, this luxurious area offers incredibly light and fine, top-quality powder. With a course length of up to 800m, it provides the ultimate experience for enjoying the best powder snow.
Comprehensive information on the Happo-One Ridge Course Guide in Hakuba can be found here.

The famous course on the narrow ridge resembling a horse's back.＜Tugaike Mountain Resort＞

The hidden gem course at Tugaike Mountain Resort is the 'Umanseno Course,' a 1300m-long, maximum slope 32-degree specialty course accessed from the top of the slope. It runs along a narrow ridge resembling a horse's back and, thanks to its high altitude, offers a smooth ride on light snow. On clear days, you can enjoy views of Mt. Asama and the Yatsugatake Range.
Details about Tsugaike Mountain Resort's ski slopes can be found here.

Have the virgin powder all to yourself with the first tracks.＜Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort＞

At the base of Hakuba Cortina, the 'Hotel Green Plaza Hakuba' hosts a limited event for its guests called 'First Tracks,' available to only 10 participants. This event allows guests to enjoy the slopes in the early morning before the official opening, with untouched terrain and the opportunity to have the powder to themselves, especially after fresh snowfall. The event is scheduled for February 25, March 3, and March 10 this season.
Detailed information about Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort can be found here.

Things to be aware of before skiing on powder snow

There are two types of powder courses available for skiing within the ski resort. One is the non-groomed course included in regular trails, and the other is the powder area (course) set up outside the regular trails, such as between trails. While skiing on regular courses poses no issues, skiing outside designated areas may come with certain conditions, like taking lessons, wearing a bib, or using a helmet. If you plan to ski in the powder areas outside the regular courses, it is recommended to check the ski resort's website in advance for specific requirements.

To ski in the TSUGA POW DBD area, taking a lecture is mandatory.＜TSUGAIKE MOUNTAIN RESORT＞

To enjoy the authentic tree runs and powder riding in the TSUGA POW DBD area, it is essential to take a lecture first. The lecture involves watching a designated video and submitting a consent form on-site. You can also watch the specified video in advance on the website to streamline the on-site registration process. Wearing an armband is mandatory when skiing in the TSUGA POW DBD area. For more details, please check the website.
The detailed information about Tsugaike Mountain Resort and TSUGA POW DBD can be found here.

challenge powder! Powder beginner-friendly course.

For those who think powder is only for advanced skiers, think again. While techniques are essential on steep slopes and deep powder, beginners and intermediate skiers can have plenty of fun on gently sloping terrain with less challenging powder. Here, let's introduce some beginner-friendly powder courses.

The day after a snowfall is the perfect time to aim for it! The North Ridge course, enjoyable for beginners to advanced skiers.＜Hakuba Happo-One Ski Resort＞

The long run course connecting from the lower part of Kurobishi slope is the Skyline North Ridge Course at Hakuba Happo-One Ski Resort. This course includes the Ridge Line Course and Forest Road Course. The Ridge Line Course, commonly known as 'Laute,' is an ungroomed trail, perfect for powder enthusiasts on the day after a fresh snowfall.
Details on the Happo-One Ridge Course Guide can be found here.

The Han-no-Ki slope, where even powder beginners can challenge with confidence.＜Tsugaike Mountain Resort＞

ighly recommended for powder beginners is the Han-no-Ki slope, starting from the gondola mountaintop station. With a wide slope spanning 3 km and fresh snow along the sides, it provides a welcoming challenge for powder beginners to enjoy without pressure.
Detailed information on Tsugaike Mountain Resort's ski slopes can be found here.

Claiming virgin powder all to yourself with the first tracks. ＜Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort＞

A course with a total length of 600m, an average slope of 26 degrees, accessible from both the Banirayama Peak and the Hieda Peak. While the slope is moderately steep, the course is characterized by minimal changes in slope, making it relatively easy to ski. The high elevation ensures favorable snow conditions.
Detailed information about Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort can be found here.

Various services for enjoying powder.

To fully enjoy powder skiing, having the right equipment and techniques specifically for powder is essential. Particularly for those attempting powder for the first time, it's reassuring to have beginner-friendly powder courses. Utilizing gear and techniques suitable for powder ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience without unnecessary challenges. Additionally, if it's your first time at a ski resort, exploring services tailored for powder enthusiasts on the resort's website can be beneficial. Having a knowledgeable guide familiar with the trails can also provide a worry-free way to savor the best powder moments.

Offering the latest rental models for powder skiing and snowboarding.. ＜Hakuba Happo-One Ski Resort＞

At the ski and snowboard rental shop 'SPICY,' a variety of powder-riding boards from well-known brands are available. For multi-day rentals, it's possible to exchange boards based on the day's conditions. In the Hakuba Happo-One area, SPICY has Wadano and Echo Land stores. Each store also offers sales of apparel, goggles, gloves, and more.
Details about the spicy information can be found here.

Rent fat skis for the perfect powder day!＜Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort＞

If you're hitting the powder, we recommend using dedicated fat skis for maximum buoyancy. At Hakuba Cortina, the rental corner offers fat ski rentals. On the day after a fresh snowfall, consider renting fat skis and enjoy the powder to the fullest.
Detailed information on Hakuba Cortina rental services can be found here.

Facility Information

Hakuba Happo-One Ski Resort
Address
Hakuba Village, Kitaazumi District, Nagano Prefecture, Japan.
URL
https://www.happo-one.jp/

Tsugaike Mountain Resort
Address
Togakushi area, Otari Village, Kitaazumi District, Nagano Prefecture, Japan.
URL
https://www.tsugaike.gr.jp/

Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort
Address
Togakushi area, Otari Village, Kitaazumi District, Nagano Prefecture, Japan.
URL
https://www.hgp.co.jp/cortina/ski/?utm_source=surfsnow&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=surf_z01&utm_id=theme_ski

Article List about Surrounding Areas

Ski & Snowboard

Enjoy a long winter season at Tsugaike Mountain Resort! From epic powder runs to fun-filled kids' parks, this BIG-scale resort has it all. Dive into the ultimate winter adventure!

powder snow / Hakuba / Hakuba Valley 

Ski & Snowboard

"Experience the ultimate winter getaway with enchanting powder and blissful resort stays at Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort!"

powder snow / japow（japan powder） / Après-ski / gourmet / Hakuba / Nagano 

Activity

On-piste snowshoe tour

snowshoe / snow activities / majestic view / Hakuba / Nagano 

Visit

Great onsen of Hakuba

onsen / Hakuba / Nagano 

Visit

Here are our picks of local sake and beer for you to enjoy in Hakuba.

sake / Hakuba / Nagano 

Article List in Terms of Ski & Snowboard

Ski & Snowboard

Effortless arrival from Osaka! Biwako Valley offers breathtaking views of Lake Biwa and an active, adventurous skiing experience to enjoy to the fullest.

gourmet / majestic view / easily accessible / girls-trip / Shiga 

Ski & Snowboard

Introducing how to enjoy Ryuoo Ski Park, the ski resort that's the easiest in Japan for snowboarding beginners.

powder snow / beginner / Après-ski / gourmet / girls-trip / Nagano 

Ski & Snowboard

"Sugadaira Kogen Snow Resort" Declares Itself Japan's "Easiest to Ski" Resort! The Fun Starts with Choosing the Right Ski Resort!

powder snow / beginner / Family / Nagano 

Ski & Snowboard

【Tambara Ski Park】Slope layout that beginners and families can ski with ease. Easy access from central Tokyo is also an attraction!

rental / powder snow / kids/family / beginner / gourmet / Gunma 

Ski & Snowboard

Enjoy a long winter season at Tsugaike Mountain Resort! From epic powder runs to fun-filled kids' parks, this BIG-scale resort has it all. Dive into the ultimate winter adventure!

powder snow / Hakuba / Hakuba Valley 

PAGE TOP