Use the city as your base and explore the snowy mountains within a 50km radius. The mountain you'll visit tomorrow can be decided based on the morning weather and signs of snow. The "spiritual homeland" of the Japanese people is easily accessible from the Tokyo metropolitan area by Shinkansen. We'll introduce you to some ski resorts and drop-in spots you'll want to visit from Nagano
Touring the Shinshu countryside from the snowy capital
Nagano is the crossroads of Japan's snow belt. Shiga Kogen, Madarao, Nozawa Onsen, Hakuba... all of the country's most famous ski resorts are located within a 50km radius. A stay in Nagano dramatically expands the freedom of your trip. Enjoy high-quality powder, beautiful tree runs, famous slopes, approaches to the backcountry, and the comfort of staying overnight in the city. The appeal of being able to travel around and experience the snow of Shinshu on a full scale is overwhelming
Nagano City is located in a "snow basin" surrounded by the Northern Alps, the Shiga mountain range, and the Iizuna, Kurohime, and Myoko mountain ranges. This terrain allows cold air to remain trapped, resulting in sustained low temperatures throughout the winter and a steady supply of large amounts of snow. Nozawa Onsen and Madarao Kogen offer dense natural snow, while Shibu Pass and Mount Yokote in Shiga Kogen offer the ultra-dry powder you can only get at high altitudes above 2,000 meters. Experiencing the different snow qualities is one of the attractions of a round-trip trip
There are many transportation options, and by combining the Shinkansen, conventional trains, and buses, you can get around even without a car. In your free time, you can stroll around the town in front of Zenkoji Temple, enjoy Shinshu soba noodles and Shinshu oyaki, and sip sake while soaking in a hot spring bath with a view of the snow. Nagano, where urban functions and the hometown atmosphere of a snowy country coexist, is truly the "capital of snow." It's a base for a rich trip that will make you want to stay there every year
The benefits of being based in this city
- Located in the center of the snow belt surrounded by the Northern Alps and the Shiga mountain range
- Enjoy abundant natural snow and beautiful tree runs
- There are many mountain ranges with BC gates, so you can choose according to your level
- Transportation convenience that allows travel based on the Shinkansen
- You can also enjoy sightseeing at Zenkoji Temple and snow monkeys
- An overwhelming variety of accommodation, dining, and shopping options
Ski resorts that can be toured around Nagano
Shiga Kogen Central Area
A collection of 13 ski resorts, one of the largest in Japan in terms of scale and variety
In Shiga Kogen, the "Shiga Kogen Central Area" is the collective name for the following 13 ski resorts. The 13 combined make it one of the largest in Japan:
Giant, Hatsubo Bunadaira, Nishitateyama, Takamagahara Mammoth, Sun Valley, Hasuike, Maruike, Ichinose Diamond, Ichinose Family, Ichinoseyama no Kami, Tanne no Mori Okojo, Higashitateyama, and Terakoya.
The central area is one of Shiga Kogen's best areas, offering a wide variety of locations and a wide range of skiing themes. While lifts allow for easy access to the different areas, the sheer scale of the area makes it difficult to cover everything in a single day. The variety and depth of the slopes and terrain, including long runs, wide runs, tree-run areas, ungroomed snow, and mountain access via gondola, is overwhelming. A reliable destination with a high level of satisfaction from Nagano
Access: Approximately 40km from central Nagano City | Approximately 60 minutes by car | Bus available
STEEP Guide Page: https://steep.jp/mountain/3471/
Shiga Highlands Yakebitaiyama
A fulfilling environment where you can enjoy the world-renowned "YAKEBI POWDER"
As a resort, it is the largest in scale in Shiga Kogen. Also, because it is located at an altitude of 2,000m, the extremely dry snow quality without excess moisture is highly regarded as some of the best in Japan. It boasts a "First Track" system that allows you to fully enjoy the famous "YAKEBI Powder", as well as a wide range of ungroomed courses and beautiful tree runs surrounded by conifers, making it extremely popular with freeriders
YAKEBI WALL has a maximum gradient of 39 degrees, and YAKEBI VALLEY is a mix of wide open runs and tree runs. Following these is YAKEBI COAST, which opened last season in 2012 as a new powder course and has been met with great acclaim. At 893m, it is the longest of Yakebi's powder courses. The top of the course is at an elevation of 1,874m, allowing you to fully enjoy the YAKEBI powder
Access: Approximately 35km from central Nagano city | Approximately 50 minutes by car
STEEP Guide Page: https://steep.jp/skiarea/yakebitaiyama/
Ryuoo Ski Park
A spectacular gondola ride with a sea of clouds and a "day perfect for travel"
The spectacular views of the Northern Alps and Sado Island from an altitude of 1,930m, as well as the sunset over the sea of clouds, are also attractive. This season, tree runs have been added to "Kiotoshi Bowl," where you can enjoy powdery white snow. You can fully enjoy the views and skiing that can only be achieved at such a high altitude
The ropeway takes you up to a high altitude in one go, and the appeal is the excellent quality of the snow and the stunning views around the summit's sea of clouds terrace. The mountain offers challenging skiing on medium to steep slopes, and the terrain is undulating. On days with snowfall, the potential is very high. This mountain can be used to create a "day perfect for a trip" by combining BC and sightseeing elements at the same time
Access: Approximately 35km from central Nagano city | Approximately 50 minutes by car
STEEP guide page: https://www.ryuoo.com/
Togakushi Ski Resort
Hone your skiing skills under the watchful eye of the spiritual Togakushi mountain range
It's easy to get to, just an hour from Nagano, and there's also a convenient bus stop in front of the station. When you stand on the snow, the majestic Togakushi mountain range looms before your eyes. The rustic atmosphere of Shinshu is one of the reasons for its popularity, and the quietness is wonderful
On the other hand, the courses are solid. There are 19 courses in total, covered in the dense snow that is typical of the Shinetsu region. There are slopes for intermediate and advanced skiers, and the mountain is structured to satisfy even technical skiers. The terrain is well-maintained, and the moderately steep slopes make it a mountain where you can "hone your skills." It is overwhelmingly popular among basic skiers. Its appeal lies in the fact that it is relatively uncrowded, allowing you to accumulate skiing experience. The surrounding area is also home to Togakushi Shrine, one of Japan's most famous spiritual spots, and the mountain also has a strong cultural background as a tourist destination
Access: Approximately 20km from central Nagano city | Approximately 40 minutes by car
Official website: https://www.togakusi.com/ski/
Madarao Plateau
One of Japan's leading tree-running paradises
The 1,305m elevation brings with it the "Madapow" powder that is the pride of Shinetsu, creating an environment where you can fully enjoy the appeal of excellent snow quality. Not only can you enjoy long runs of powder on the diverse natural terrain, but the quality, scale and variety of the tree areas are among the best in Japan
At the "Powder Station," which was newly opened inside Restaurant Heidi last year, guides who are experts on the ski resort will show you the best tree run courses and ski spots based on the conditions and your skiing skills on the day. There is also a test center where you can try out the latest BLASTRACK skis and powder boards from popular brands such as OGASAKA, NOVEMBER, and Scooter
Access: Approximately 30km from central Nagano city | Approximately 50 minutes by car
STEEP Guide Page: https://www.madarao.jp/
tangram ski circus
Enjoy the area efficiently by combining it with the neighboring Madarao
Tangram is mainly on the north slope, so the snow quality is stable, the whole course is undulating, and there are many lines where you can enjoy long turns comfortably. It is a dark horse of the neighboring Madarao, and there are many times when it is relatively quiet, so if you combine it with Madarao by using the shared lift pass, you can avoid the crowds and aim for good conditions, which is an appealing point
Access : Approximately 35km from central Nagano City | Approximately 50 minutes by car
Official website : https://www.tangram.jp/ski/
Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort
the satisfaction of skiing and relaxation , this is the main attraction for trips based in Nagano.
This one-of-a-kind resort combines a vast ski area with 36 diverse courses and the culture of a nostalgic hot spring village in Shinshu. With a long run with an elevation difference of 1,085m, steep slopes, natural powder in the Yamabiko area, and natural terrain, the resort offers an overwhelming range of skiing themes that will satisfy any ski enthusiast. Another attractive feature is the length of the season, with plenty of time for skiing right up until the Golden Week holidays in May
You can enjoy the atmosphere of the hot springs by touring the outdoor baths, foot baths, and strolling around the hot spring town, and it really brings the level of perfection to your skiing and hot spring trip. Although it's based in Nagano, rather than just making a day trip, I recommend staying overnight at a guesthouse in the village and enjoying the hot springs and the powder snow in the Yamabiko area first thing in the morning
Access: Approximately 50km from central Nagano city | Approximately 70 minutes by car | Train and bus available
STEEP guide page: https://www.nozawaski.com/
Togari Onsen Ski Resort
With a new direction, it is now at the top of the list of places to visit this winter
It's only 15 minutes from JR Iiyama Station, making it easily accessible for those staying in Nagano. The expansive ski slopes, offering spectacular views of Shinanodai, boast a rich variety of slopes that belies their size, with 13 diverse courses, a 2,500m long run, and ungroomed snow and tree runs. The relatively low crowd density makes it an attractive spot for relaxing and accumulating ski time, making it a hidden gem worth stopping by if you're heading to Nozawa Onsen
...But this winter, Togari Onsen underwent a major transformation. The resort welcomed a new representative, an active racing driver who runs an investment company in Tokyo, and underwent major renovations and a change in direction, resulting in the new Togari Onsen Ski Resort. Three new gourmet restaurants have opened, a summit cafe has opened, and the former Gohonmatsu course has been transformed into a full-fledged park called "Dragon Park." From now on, Togari Onsen is likely to become an essential base for trips based in Nagano
Access: Approximately 55km from central Nagano city | Approximately 80 minutes by car
STEEP guide page: https://www.togari.jp/
The God of Romance Ski Resort
Will romance be born? Full of excitement
The mountain boasts a steep slope from the summit with a maximum gradient of 46 degrees. On mornings when fresh snow falls on Japan's steepest face, you can enjoy spectacular riding with big sprays that you can't get anywhere else. A new "Wood Run Course" will be introduced in the 2025-2026 season! With a distance of 1,300m and an average gradient of 20 degrees and a maximum gradient of 46 degrees, this course for advanced skiers is attracting attention for its spectacular views from the summit and its course through the forest
On the other hand, there is also an extra-wide, gentle slope of 250m, so beginners and families can enjoy it with peace of mind. There is a wide selection of the latest cute wear to rent, and above all, the service quality of the "powder room" is an environment that matches the image of the "god of romance." There are also plenty of great deals on days such as Handsome Day, Ladies Day, and Couple Day, where a one-day pass is discounted to 3,000 yen. There is also excellent family support, with private nursing rooms and free diapers that will please mothers
Access: Approximately 50km from central Nagano city | Approximately 70 minutes by car
Official website: https://kijimadaira-ski.com/
YAMABOKU Wild Snow Park
A fresh, hidden powder field for skiers
Located in a corner of Shiga Kogen UNESCO Ecopark, the slopes that spread across the southern slope of Mt. Kasagatake, which is 2,076 meters above sea level, are quite high at 1,500 to 1,700 meters above sea level, so light, natural powder snow accumulates and 70% of the slopes are ungroomed natural slopes, making it an amazing powder paradise
Although it has a strong image of being a snowboarding resort, it actually has plenty to offer to skiers, with steep slopes of up to 38 degrees, advanced courses that slide down through tight forests, and technical courses that allow you to master the changing terrain. For skiers, it is a fresh, hidden powder spot. This ski resort is definitely worth adding to your trip to experience the opposite charm of a well-maintained resort
Access: Approximately 35km from central Nagano city | Approximately 60 minutes by car
STEEP guide page: https://yamaboku.co.jp/
Sugadaira Kogen Ski Resort
For those days when you want to "snowboard hard" or "practice skating"
The resort boasts 60 diverse runs and high-quality, stable snow on a large field at an altitude of 1,250-1,650m. It also offers long runs and forest runs, satisfying everyone from families to hardcore skiers
Although there are many runs, the traffic flow connecting the multiple areas is smooth, the lifts rotate well, and it is easy to ski efficiently. The runs are wide and the quality of the groomed runs is high, making it extremely popular for training beginner skiers and test rides
Access: Approximately 35km from central Nagano city | Approximately 50 minutes by car
Official website: https://sugadaira-snowresort.com/
X-JAM Takaifuji Yomase Ski Resort
A high-spec park with 47 different items and a spectacular view of Zenkoji Temple
Two ski resorts are located on either side of Mt. Kosha at the summit.
X-JAM Takai Fuji's popular park boasts 47 different types of ski equipment, including jibs and kickers, and boasts some of the highest quality in Japan. Jumps and jibs come in a variety of sizes and shapes, allowing you to challenge yourself at different levels. The resort is always well-maintained and has a great environment, making it extremely popular among park enthusiasts.
The appeal of Yomase Ski Resort is its spectacular views of Zenkoji Temple, a famous landmark in Shinshu. It consists of 13 diverse courses that can be enjoyed by beginners to advanced skiers. You can enjoy two ski resorts with different personalities at once, making for a very satisfying day out
Access: Approximately 30km from central Nagano city | Approximately 45 minutes by car
Official website: https://x-jam.jp/
Kitashiga Komaruyama Ski Resort
A compact local mountain with medium slopes and drop lines
Although it is compact in size, it is a skiable slope with a moderate gradient and vertical drop lines. The runs are also of a reasonable width, making it an environment where intermediate level skiers can safely ski and improve their skills. Another plus point about this local mountain is that it is not often crowded and there is less stress when waiting for the lifts
Access: Approximately 50km from central Nagano city | Approximately 75 minutes by car
Official website: https://www.komaruyama.jp/komaruyama/
Kurohime Kogen Snow Park
Convenient for combining with sightseeing in Nagano
This medium-sized resort, located at the northern foot of Mount Kurohime in northern Shinano, offers a wide variety of slopes, from open single runs to tree-like slopes and gentle runs for beginners. Located at a higher elevation, the snow quality is consistent. The upper part of the slope is mainly medium-sized, allowing you to enjoy long, pleasant runs, while the lower part has gentle slopes that are easy for beginners and families
With facilities for families, such as a snow park and a kids' area, a wide range of people can enjoy a day here. Located just 40 minutes from downtown Nagano, it is easily accessible and can be easily combined with sightseeing in the surrounding area, making it a very user-friendly mountain
Access: Approximately 25km from central Nagano city | Approximately 40 minutes by car
Official website: https://kurohime-kogen.co.jp/snow/
Iizuna Resort
A practical slope that's close to the city yet offers plenty of fun
It's an extremely convenient location, just 15km from Nagano city. The slopes are compact but refreshingly easy, with a focus on medium-sized slopes, so you'll get more satisfaction than just the distance. Even though the altitude is low, the snow quality is not bad after snowfall or during the peak season. The resort also has night skiing hours, allowing for flexible use in the gaps in your trip or for a half-day. The minimal travel burden is also practical
Access: Approximately 15km from central Nagano City | Approximately 25 minutes by car
Official website: https://iizunaresort.com/
REWILD NINJA SNOW HIGHLAND
Enjoy the natural terrain and the fantastic aurora illuminations
The old Minenohara Kogen Ski Resort has been rebuilt to become "Ninja Snow Highland," and the mountain has undergone a major transformation. Unlike conventional slopes that focus on skiing, the slopes have been designed with a unique new feel, with courses designed to be a "snow playground." The slopes have a total of 10 courses that make use of the natural terrain and offer a variety of fun experiences. The bowl-shaped design means that no matter which course you ski down, you'll always return to the same bottom, so you won't get lost
Based on the concept of enjoying snowy mountain entertainment, a fantastical aurora illumination show will be held after sunset. The magical experience of being enveloped in the art of light projected onto the silvery white snowy mountains is something you can only experience here
Access: Approximately 45km from central Nagano city | Approximately 70 minutes by car
Official website: https://rewild-ninja.com/
Lotte Arai Resort
Unbelievable scale and deep powder
With an impressive annual snowfall of 18m, the resort boasts deep powder and 84% of its slopes are ungroomed, making it one of Japan's leading freeriding havens. The top of the slope is 1,280m above sea level, the longest run is 7.0km, and the resort has a unique layout with a deep depth. The resort is so large that it could easily fit four Tokyo Disneylands inside
Ten freeriding zones are spread across a diverse terrain of steep slopes, tree lines, and long runs, and the sheer amount of snow means that the powder reset rate is one of the best in Japan, making this an exquisite big mountain where you can expect high-quality powder right up until March. The base hotel has also received high praise, with people saying, "It has a quiet, calm, modern atmosphere, and you can experience the feeling of a luxury resort." It's a bit of a stretch from Nagano, but it's definitely worth considering for a tour
Access: Approximately 60km from central Nagano city | Approximately 80 minutes by car
STEEP Guide Page: https://www.lottehotel.com/arai-resort/
Myoko Suginohara Ski Resort
Enjoy carving on the longest run of approximately 8.5km
The Suginohara Gondola takes you 3km to the summit at an elevation of approximately 1,500m, offering views of Lake Nojiri and Okushinano below. With an elevation difference of 1,124m, the run is an astounding 8.5km! The tightly packed long course is one of the best in Japan. With the ability to enjoy high-speed long turns to your heart's content, it not only satisfies carving enthusiasts, but is also highly rated by powder lovers. The Snow Park, with its wide range of items, is also impressive and the most popular in the Myoko area
It can be accessed within an hour from the center of Nagano city, and can easily be enjoyed as a day trip by touring around Nagano
Access: Approximately 32km from central Nagano City | Approximately 50 minutes by car
STEEP Guide Page: https://www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/suginosawa/
HAKUBA VALLEY
Hakuba Valley is located in northwestern Nagano Prefecture. Ten ski resorts are scattered across an area stretching from Jigatake Ski Resort in Omachi City in the south to Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort in Otari Village in the north, stretching from north to south in a straight line of about 25km. While the overall strength of the area is already known around the world, each of the ten ski resorts is unique. They offer a wide variety of courses, with large elevation changes, ungroomed courses, various parks, and carefully maintained groomed runs, but most of the resorts face east, with the Northern Alps at their backs. Some ski resorts have slopes that extend north and south, so they are characterized by the large number of north-facing slopes and courses in good conditions
Most of these resorts are large, with runs exceeding 5,000 meters. At the base of the resorts, there's a ski town complete with hot springs, accommodation, restaurants, ski and snowboard shops, and more, offering plenty of options for after-ski fun. If you're touring from Nagano, you'll want to use the HAKUBA VALLEY Pass (common lift ticket) to visit as many ski resorts as possible
Access: Approximately 45km from central Nagano city | Approximately 60 minutes by car
STEEP Guide Page: https://steep.jp/mountain/3546/