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There’s a specific place in Japan waiting to be discovered, which is worth that flight. A whole new experience is what’s in store in Hokkaido, Japan, a popular snow destination. While Sapporo and Niseko can be crowded this time of year, it might just be the perfect time to see the Central Hokkaido “Powder Belt” or travel to Tohoku region and check out the “Snow Monsters”.
While skiers and snowboarders have known about “Japow”, a play on “Japan” and “Powder”, for a long time, these options will help you maximize your winter getaway and will surely have you enjoy a different side of Japan and find your own version of a White Christmas. Let Northern Japan be your gateway to the Land of Endless Discovery.
A few ideas to try are: Zao Onsen, Appi Kogen, and Furano. These options provide an excellent vacation with many non-ski options for those who want to enjoy the snow, but not the slopes.
Zao Onsen in Tohoku is renowned for its snow quality, but there is so much more to do in the area. The Zao Onsen features some of the most acidic waters in Japan–the area has quite a few options ranging from traditional Japanese bath houses to modern facilities.
If your party is into beautiful landscapes, the Okama Crater Lake is a great place to visit–but it can be difficult to reach in inclement weather. You can also check out unique ice formations known as the “Snow Monsters” or “Juhkyo” which are one of Mt. Zao’s main attractions.
How to get there:
There is a JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Yamagata and a bus to Zao Onsen. In the winter, there is an overnight bus from Tokyo as well as a bus from Sendai.
Appi Kogen is another ski resort in Tohoku. Located in Iwate, Appi Kogen has all sorts of snow adventures in store for skiers and non-skiers alike. There are 20 runs for skiers so there is a lot of variety for beginners and advanced skiers–there are even family friendly slopes for everyone to try together!
Interested in après-skiing activities? There are also onsens in the area like Appi Onsen Shirakaba no Yu which is one of the largest hot springs in the Tohoku region, or try the Private Spa Makiba if you are looking for a quieter onsen experience. Morioka is about 50 km away if you want a day trip for something cultural like the Morioka Hachimangu Shrine or the Bank of Iwate.
How to Get there:
Catch the Shinkansen from major cities like Tokyo to Morioka, or take local trains/buses to nearby areas like Sendai or Yamagata. From there, take a shuttle bus or the local Hanawa Line, buses or driving to the ski resort are also good options.
Skiers call the powder in Furano “champagne snow” because it’s some of the fluffiest and lightest snow in the world. Furano Ski Resort is situated inland which makes the snow extra dry. This location also provides incredible views of the Tokachidake and the Daisetsu Mountain Range and challenging backcountry trails.
How to get there:
The Furano Ski Resort is about three kilometers from Furano Station. It’s a 10-15 minute car ride. Buses from Asahikawa Airport and Sapporo also stop at the base of the mountain or to Furano Station.
From gentle slopes to steep challenges, central Hokkaido and Tohoku have many options for a perfect winter playground. “Japow” skiing is so good, people come from all over the world just to experience it. The good news for non-skiers is: these areas aren’t all about the winter sports. There is so much more to explore from panoramic views to traditional onsens. You don’t have to be a snow sports enthusiast to enjoy this area and most importantly, everyone has their own version of a perfect Japan Winter experience.
With world class skiing, ice spectacles, and snow-capped mountain landscapes, central Hokkaido and Tohoku are perfect for any “White Christmas” dreams you might have–or even better make this January a “Japanuary”!
