Japow is a term used by the international skiing community to describe Japan's legendary powder snow. The combination of cold Siberian air and warm ocean currents creates incredibly light, fluffy snow that's perfect for skiing and snowboarding.

The peak season is typically from December to March, with January and February offering the best powder conditions. Early season (December) can have variable conditions, while late season (March) often has warmer temperatures but still good snow quality.

No, you don't need to speak Japanese. Most major ski resorts have English-speaking staff, English signage, and international visitor services. However, learning basic Japanese phrases can enhance your experience and is appreciated by locals.

Most ski resorts accept credit cards, but some smaller operations may only accept cash. It's best to check with the resort directly for specific payment options.

If you're not using a tour package, I recommend buying your tickets online in advance, which is typically 200 to 300 yen cheaper than buying them on-site. Many of the hotels in the resort also offer hotel deal lift tickets, which are a few hundred yen cheaper than purchasing on site. Please check with your hotel to see if they have those options.

Let's exclude the flight fee since it depends on where you're coming from. If it's a day trip from Tokyo to Gala Yuzawa, I would estimate 7,000 yen for the Shinkansen, 6,000 yen for the lift ticket, and 10,000 yen for the rental fee (for a ski or snowboard set and gear). Meals would cost an additional 3,000 yen. So, the total is 26,000 yen, or about $170 USD, per person. However, there are many package tours that will offer you a better deal than this.

Yes, especially the resorts which is listed in this website usually has rentals for larger size. However it is better to check with the resort if they have these sizes

I recommend checking the availability of English lessons before deciding which resorts to visit. Most resorts in Yuzawa, Hakuba, and Myoko offer English lessons. I will provide more information as it becomes available for the 2025-2026 season.

We recommend booking 3-6 months in advance, especially for popular resorts like Niseko, Hakuba, and Nozawa Onsen. Peak season (January-February) books up quickly, so earlier booking ensures better accommodation and flight options.

Pack warm, waterproof clothing as temperatures can drop to -10°C (14°F) or lower. Don't forget ski/snowboard gear, or you can rent high-quality equipment at most resorts. Bring layers, as indoor areas are well-heated.

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Citizens of many countries (including US, UK, Canada, Australia, EU) can enter Japan for up to 90 days without a visa for tourism purposes. Check with your local Japanese embassy for specific requirements.

GALA Yuzawa is excellent for beginners with its easy access from Tokyo and gentle slopes. Other beginner-friendly options include Naeba, Karuizawa, and the family areas of Hakuba Valley resorts.

Hokkaido resorts like Niseko and Rusutsu are famous for their deep powder. In Honshu, Hakuba Valley, Nozawa Onsen, and Myoko Kogen offer excellent powder conditions, especially in January and February.

Yes! Many resorts offer English ski and snowboard lessons. GALA Yuzawa, Hakuba 47 are particularly well-known for their English instruction programs. Some resorts also offer Chinese language lessons.

Basically, Wi-Fi is available at hotels, but there is no Wi-Fi at ski resorts. Considering the possibility of getting lost on the slopes, it's best to make sure your smartphone is usable.

When skiing on courses registered as off-piste within the ski area, many resorts will provide you with a mark indicating you can ski off-piste after signing a waiver, along with items necessary for rescue, such as Cocoheli. If you plan to ski in backcountry areas not marked on the course, absolutely do not go alone; hire a tour guide who is thoroughly familiar with the local terrain. Unfortunately, every year numerous foreign skiers are involved in backcountry accidents.

Most resorts are accessible by train or bus from Tokyo. The Shinkansen (bullet train) connects to many resort areas. GALA Yuzawa is directly accessible by Shinkansen, while Hakuba and Nozawa Onsen require a train + bus combination.

Public transportation is generally more convenient and cost-effective. The train and bus network is excellent, and you won't need to worry about winter driving conditions. However, a car can be useful for exploring multiple resorts in the same area.

To rent a car in Japan, you need your passport, a valid driver’s license from your home country, and either a 1949-format International Driving Permit (IDP) or, for licenses from Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco, or Taiwan, the original license plus an official Japanese translation. Most companies also require a credit card, and the minimum driving age is 18, though agencies may set higher limits.

Travel times vary: GALA Yuzawa (1.5 hours), Hakuba (3-4 hours), Nozawa Onsen (2.5-3 hours), Niseko (4-5 hours including flight). The Shinkansen makes longer distances more comfortable.

I would not recommend it if you are staying at a ski resort for the whole trip, since it is cheaper to purchase single tickets. However, if you are planning to travel to other parts of Japan, such as Kyoto or Osaka, the Japan Rail Pass will be more cost efficient.

Options range from luxury hotels and ryokans (traditional inns) to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Many accommodations offer ski-in/ski-out access, and some include onsen (hot spring) facilities.

While traditional Japanese cuisine includes fish and meat, most ski resorts cater to international visitors and offer vegetarian options. Major resorts have restaurants with diverse menus, and you can always ask for modifications.

An onsen is a traditional Japanese hot spring bath. It's a wonderful way to relax after skiing and is deeply embedded in Japanese culture. Most ski resorts have onsen facilities, and it's definitely worth experiencing during your visit.

Yes, Japanese ski resorts are generally very safe with excellent safety standards. However, always follow resort rules, stay within marked areas, and consider avalanche safety for backcountry skiing. Most resorts have English safety information.

Japan has excellent emergency services. The emergency number is 110 for police and 119 for fire/ambulance. Most resorts have first aid stations and English-speaking staff who can assist with emergencies.

Most resorts have websites with real-time snow reports. Popular apps like SnowJapan and resort-specific apps provide detailed weather and snow condition updates. We also provide current conditions on our resort pages.