With dropping temperatures it’s time to start planning your winter adventures and looking out for the best ski packages from Tokyo.
While Hokkaidō may be the most famous ski destination in Japan, there are plenty of great ski resorts near the capital too. And they are already gearing up for the 2023–2024 winter season.
The best ski resorts near Tokyo
From Tokyo, there are plenty of excellent alpine destinations just a few hours away. Karuizawa and Naeba are good options that are 2 hours or less from Tokyo, making them viable for day trips. Meanwhile, more well-known spots like Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, and Shiga Kōgen are perfect for weekend getaways. And yes, you can even ski on Mt. Fuji if you want to.
Best value packages
These packages may not be all-inclusive but they are excellent value for money. They are perfect for day or weekend trips from Tokyo, especially for people who can’t commit to longer ski trips.
Shiga Kōgen ski or snowboard lesson
December 1 – April 30¥45,000 (per group, up to six people)
Book here
This private lesson takes place at Shiga Kōgen, a large ski resort area in Nagano Prefecture. It includes a 4-hour private lesson for up to six people. Instead of a standard lesson, you also have the option of coaching in a specific focus area; racing/carving, free ride, or moguls. Keep in mind though, that this package doesn’t include equipment, ski wear, or a lift pass.
Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort lift pass + rental package
December 23 – March 3¥10,800
Book here
Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort is one of the many ski resorts located in Hakuba Valley (in Nagano Prefecture). This year they’re offering a package that includes a 1-day lift pass, plus ski equipment and ski wear rental for ¥10,800. Usually this would cost at least ¥15,000, so this package definitely gets the Cheapo stamp of approval. On the other hand, this package is very basic and doesn’t offer any optional upgrades.
It takes about 3 hours to reach the resort, via the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Nagano and then a bus to Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort. Alternatively, if you’re feeling especially frugal you could take an overnight bus to Nagano for a fraction of the cost.
Yuzawa private ski or snowboard lesson package
December 1 – April 30From ¥22,000
Book here
If you are in the market for lessons, head out to Yuzawa in Niigata Prefecture and take advantage of this excellent deal. These private lessons start at ¥22,000 for 2 hours, up to ¥60,000 for a 6-hour lesson. This includes basic insurance and the instructors fee, but not equipment rental or lift passes. However, what makes this such great value is that the price stays the same for up to five people — so that ¥22,000 2-hour lesson suddenly becomes ¥5,500 each, if you can get four buddies to join you.
There are several ski resorts in the Yuzawa area and where you will go for your lesson depends on a variety of factors, including weather and snow conditions. However, if you have a preference you are welcome to request it at the time of booking or let your instructor know on the day.
Yuzawa can easily be reached in 80 minutes via the Jōetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo. Another option is to drive, which takes about 3 hours.
All-inclusive packages
These all-inclusive packages are the classic heavy hitters that do include (almost) everything in one handy package. The following packages are multi-night trips with fantastic inclusions — but that comes at a cost.
Nagano Ski Buffet
December 19 – January 15¥398,974
Nagano Ski Buffet
Unusually named though it may be, you can’t deny that this 10-day package is one of those once-in-a-lifetime type trips. In addition to fairly standard inclusions like accommodation, lift passes, and guiding/instruction, you’ll also be treated to specially organized cultural experiences. These iclude a taiko drum performance, a geisha show, and a visit to see the snow monkeys.
You’ll meet your guide at Yudanaka train station, which can be accessed via local train from Nagano Station. To get to Nagano Station you can take the Hokuriku Shinkansen.
A beginner’s trip to Fujiyama Snow Resort
November 1 – March 15From ¥13,870
Book here.
This 1-day package to Fujiyama Snow Resort Yeti (aka Snow Town Yeti) is a great way to learn new skills and save money at the same time. There are a range of plans to choose from, depending on what you’re after. The All-Inclusive Plan is the highest tier and includes a round-trip transfer between Shinjuku and Snow Town Yeti, a pass to Fujiyama Snow Resort, ski gear rental, and lessons with an English-speaking guide (there are Chinese speaking guides available too) starting at ¥33,763. Meanwhile, the simplest plan is just the round-trip transport and starts at ¥13,870.
Fujiyama Snow Resort is perfect for beginners as it’s a little smaller than most of the other resorts out there and, as a bonus, it has excellent views of Mt. Fuji.
Other snowsport tours/packages
Not everyone can ski or snowboard — or sometimes you just want a break. These tours and package will satisfy your snow-cravings with other fun snow sports and acitivities.
Snow monkey and snow fun at Shiga Kōgen
December 23 – March 15¥28,000
Book here
This tour is a great balance of sightseeing and snow fun. You’ll stop by Jigokudani Monkey Park and see the famous Japanese snow monkeys, then head to Shiga Kōgen for some fun in the snow with options including sledding, snow bikes, and snow scooters. The tour also includes round-trip travel from Nagano Station, lunch, and entry fees to Jigokudani Monkey Park.
Nagano nsowshoe hiking tour
January 25 – February 29¥16,800 (per person for a group of two)
Book here
If you’d like to try something a little different then this snowshoe hiking tour is perfect. With snowshoe rental and a guide, you’re all set for a lovely hike through snowy mountain forests. Surrounded by 400-year-old cedar trees you’ll get to experience the beauty of nature in winter.
Frequently asked questions
Where can you go skiing in Tokyo?
Unfortunately, there are no ski resorts in Tokyo. However, the closest big ski resort to Tokyo is Gala Yuzawa Snow Resort. You can get there in 90 minutes via the Shinkansen.
How much does it cost to go skiing near Tokyo?
We recommend budgeting at least ¥20,000 to ¥30,000 for a day of skiing or snowboarding. 1-day lift passes tend to cost ¥6,000 or more, however there are often discounts available — like cheaper prices for weekdays or half-day passes. Transport costs could be anywhere from ¥10,000 to ¥20,000 round trip. And, don’t forget to factor in other costs like equipment and ski rental, accommodation, or lessons.
With these costs in mind, you can see what great value a package tour can be, especially for beginners.
While we do our best to ensure it’s correct, information is subject to change. Post first published in November 2019. Last updated in October 2023.
