Ten days on the Japanese slopes
I was lucky enough to spend ten days exploring the Japanese slopes with Sno ‘n’ Ski Holidays.
What a pleasure it was to be hosted by true lovers of all things ski. Their passion for the destination is obvious and their expertise undeniable.
After ten days on the slopes, I experienced four completely different sides of skiing in Japan, and each one brought something truly unique.
Of course, I have to share…
Shizukuishi, classic and uncrowded ❄️
Hosted by Prince Hotels & Resorts, I was lucky enough to experience Shizukuishi Ski Resort, a traditional and largely under-the-radar ski destination.
The Prince Hotel is true ski-in, ski-out. Lockers are conveniently located on the ground floor, so you can grab your gear and slide straight onto the slopes with zero fuss.
Shizukuishi delivers wide-open runs, immaculate grooming, and uninterrupted views of Mount Iwate. It is also home to a former downhill racecourse, offering pockets of more challenging terrain for those wanting to push themselves, but overall the mountain is best suited to confident intermediates who love long, cruisy laps.
Breakfast and dinner are served buffet-style in the main dining hall with a strong Japanese influence. Lunch on the slopes is quick, efficient, and exactly what you would expect in Japan. Seamless and satisfying.
The onsen is the real highlight
After a full day on the mountain, sink into the steaming outdoor baths as snow falls around you and let the mountain views do the rest. It is the kind of experience that forces you to slow down and soak it all in.
Who it suits
Expect traditional Japanese-style rooms and a strong local crowd who clearly know a good thing when they find it. I would recommend Shizukuishi to skiers and snowboarders wanting a quieter, more traditional experience. If your ideal trip is all about skiing, soaking, and switching off, then this is your place.
Naeba, family fun and only a train ride away ❄️
When planning a Japanese ski holiday, Hakuba Valley is often the first destination that comes to mind. But just 70 minutes from Tokyo, Naeba Ski Resort offers an outstanding and often overlooked alternative.
At the centre of the resort is the Prince Hotel, a large ski-in, ski-out property spanning six interconnected buildings. It feels like a self-contained village where accommodation, dining, ski hire, and entertainment are all in one place.
Family-friendly rooms
Rooms are modern, spacious, and very family-friendly, with suites and interconnecting options. Some even feature built-in kids’ climbing walls, which is a fun touch. Building Two has recently refurbished rooms, and select floors offer Club access with breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening drinks overlooking the slopes.
Dining is a standout
Food trucks line the slopes, and there are food courts, specialty restaurants, and lively night markets. Whether you want a quick bite between runs or a relaxed dinner, it is all right there.
Plenty off the slopes too
Think onsen, games rooms, snowmobiling, and even karaoke. Often described as a cruise ship in the mountains, Naeba brings everything together in one seamless experience. It is an easy, stress-free choice for families.
Calm, scenic and expansive
Shiga Kogen, scenic and effortlessly calm ❄️
Set in Nagano Prefecture, Shiga Kogen Ski Resort is Japan’s largest ski area, known for its high elevation and consistently excellent snow.
The Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel is true ski-in, ski-out, sitting right at the base of the slopes with lifts and gondolas just steps from your door.
A calmer pace
There is a calm, almost romantic feel to the property. The grand dining room overlooks the slopes, making it the perfect spot for a slow morning coffee or a wine at the end of the day. Rooms boast views of snow-covered mountains, so you wake up right in the heart of it all.
Where I’d stay
My top recommendation is to book the East Wing, ideally a Suite or Junior Suite. The rooms are spacious, with a cosy mountain lodge feel that makes it very easy to settle in.
On the slopes
Shiga Kogen is a dream for beginners and intermediates. Think long, cruisy runs and endless terrain to explore across interconnected mountains. Advanced skiers will still find pockets of challenge, but it is the sheer variety and scale that really sets it apart.
Beyond the skiing
From Shiga Kogen, we took a quick 25-minute drive to see the famous Japanese snow monkeys – a must-do experience. I see this as the perfect spot for couples. Leave the kids at home and enjoy a week of Japanese scenery, great skiing, and total tranquillity.
Hakuba, an undeniable vibe ❄️
Hakuba Valley… where do I start?!
I absolutely love the energy pouring out of this place.
For Aussies planning a ski trip to Japan, it is no surprise Hakuba is one of the most talked-about destinations.
You get world-class skiing, a buzzing après scene, and a huge range of accommodation. It can feel overwhelming, but that is exactly what makes it so good.
This is where people tend to get stuck, so here are my favourites…
Marillen Hotel
Perfectly positioned on the slopes of Happo-One, the Marillen Hotel combines an unbeatable location with cosy alpine charm. Sitting right beside one of Hakuba’s liveliest après spots, it is ideal if you are chasing good vibes and easy access to the action. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and there is an onsen to wind down after a big day.
Happo Hotel
Right in the heart of Happo Village, Happo Hotel offers comfort and convenience. It is an easy walk to the lifts, with modern, bright rooms and Western-style bathrooms. The onsen is a welcome bonus after a full day on the hill.
Evo Hotel
Trendy, social, and full of energy. Evo is a great option for younger travellers or groups. It is close to the lifts, with retro-inspired interiors, modern rooms, and lively communal spaces that keep the vibe going off the slopes.
Roka Apartments
A great option for families or groups of friends, Roka offers a premium ski-in, ski-out stay. Think modern wooden interiors, open-plan living, and plenty of space to entertain. Private drying rooms and terraces overlooking the slopes make it an easy and comfortable base.
La Neige Higashikan
Tucked away in the peaceful Wadano Forest, La Neige offers a boutique alpine escape. Ski valet service makes getting on the mountain effortless, and the rooms are individually styled with luxurious touches. With à la carte breakfast, afternoon drinks, and a cosy lounge, it is perfect for a quiet, romantic stay.
Mizuho Chalets
Ideal for families or groups wanting space and style. Located between Echoland and Happo-One, these chalets offer a peaceful setting while still being close to the action. Modern interiors and spacious layouts make them perfect for relaxing after a big day on the slopes.
Worth knowing
Tips & tricks…
Getting around Hakuba
Most hotels in Happo and Wadano are serviced by regular shuttle buses, making it easy to get around. Concierge services via WhatsApp make organising transport and bookings simple.
Food and nightlife
Hakuba’s food and nightlife scene is just as strong. Spots like Blizzard, Rabbit Hole, and Hybrid are always buzzing, while slope-side venues like Hakuba Après bring live music and high-energy vibes right onto the snow.
From the slopes
There it is, my week with Sno’n’Ski Holidays.
I truly cannot wait to help others experience what is already one of my favourite destinations.
If you’re thinking about a ski trip but don’t know where to start, you know exactly where to find me.
Liv
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