5 Unique Ski Resorts For Spring Skiing In Japan

What could be better than hitting the slopes on a clear, sunny day without crowds and wait times to contend with (not to mention cheaper rates)? This is the exact vibe of spring skiing in Japan, with many of the country's best ski resorts still covered in snow as the days grow longer, warmer, and altogether more summer-like—some right up until early May. From a former location for the Winter Olympics to one of the snowiest places on the planet, Japan has an incredible selection of spring skiing destinations to choose from. Here are five of the Uchi team's favourites:

Leading the charge is Hakuba aka one of the largest ski destinations in Asia, offering an impressive 10 ski resorts at the foot of the Japanese Alps (fun fact: it also hosted events for the 1998 Winter Olympics). Its high altitude and in turn, generous snowfall means that you can hit the slopes here right up 'til May (Hakuba Goryu and Hakuba Happo-One snow resorts are generally open the longest) though naturally, some services may be limited (skiing lessons wind up in mid-March, for example). Expect textbook 'bluebird' weather—that's warm days with clear skies, to the uninitiated—with firm snow turning to more of a (still rideable!) slush as the day progresses. Plus, if you time things just right, you'll be treated to views of the town's iconic cherry blossoms while you ski. When you're not busy carving up a storm, make the most of Hakuba's many top-notch restaurants, bars and other attractions, including the famous snow monkeys of Jigokudani Yaen-Koen (which despite their name, can be seen year-round).

Check out our current property listings for Hakuba, right here.

Niseko is one of Japan's premier skiing destinations, famous for its light and dry japow with a snow season extending well into the spring. March and April are the best times to visit though again, some resorts like Grand Hirafu and Annupuri are open right up until early May. You'll be treated to mild temperatures and plenty of long, sunny days to explore the wide, open terrain, with the stunning Mt Yotei (nicknamed the 'Mt Fuji of Niseko') as your backdrop. The snow here is softer than ever during the spring and as such, makes it a popular destination for families and beginners. And you'll have no trouble filling your time off-slope: Niseko has all the comforts of an international resort, including world-class accommodation and restaurant options, along with plenty of other unique things to do. 

Check out our property listings for Niseko, right here.

As far as skiing destinations go, Shiga Kogen has some serious pulling power—it's the largest and highest interconnected ski resort in Japan, with 18 linked ski areas spanning almost 1500 acres. It also offers the longest-running ski season in Nagano, ending in early May (the Yokoteyama-Shibutoge area typically shuts last). Head here if you like the idea of mild-weathered days, dashing through the snow on high-altitude slopes, with a sprinkling of tree skiing thrown into the mix. In terms of off-piste action, the restaurant options in Shiga Kogen are more limited than other major ski resorts, however there are plenty of other attractions to keep you occupied including a combined chairlift/outdoor escalator ride (Japan's highest, in fact) up Mt Yokoteyama and again, the world-famous snow monkeys.

As one of the snowiest places on the planet (it gets up to 16m of snowfall every year), it should come as no surprise to learn that Myoko offers one of Japan's lengthiest ski seasons. From March through May, you'll have access to picturesque slopes covered in softer (read: more forgiving) snow spread across six resorts, with visibility sometimes at such a premium, now you’ll be able to see all the way to Mt Fuji. And if that still hasn't convinced you, how does winding down after a day on the slopes with an onsen, followed by a meal in one of the area's many incredible year-round restaurants sound?

Check out our property listings for Myoko, right here.

And last but not least is Gassan, which ironically, isn't open during the winter, only spring and summer. A staggering 30m of snow falls here every year, making travel and access all but impossible during the cooler months; however this means there's plenty of snow on the ground long after winter has finished (as far into the year as July, in fact). As to be expected, you'll experience plenty of sunshine—don't be surprised if all you need to wear is a t-shirt and shorts. Due to the largely ungroomed nature of the terrain, this spot is best suited for intermediate and advanced skiers, who can enjoy weaving between beech trees and even blossoming cherry trees in the spring. Because Gassan is only open during the spring and summer, it can be a lot busier than some of the other destinations on this list, while the area itself has very little to offer off-piste; however it's still well worth checking out if you're serious about skiing. 

Find a full list of Japan's spring ski resorts and their closing dates right here. 

Imagine waking up to pristine snow-capped mountains and endless slopes just steps from your doorstep. With our exclusive listings, you can secure your dream retreat in the heart of Japan's winter wonderland.