The only read you’ll need! Nagano Prefecture: a Guide to the Best of all Four Seasons
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This comprehensive ski resort boasts one of the highest elevations in the country and a 4 km ski run. Suitable for beginners to advanced skiers, it offers a variety of courses for skiing and snowboarding. Step up for a sight like none before, with Japan's three major mountain ranges and the ethereal mystique of frost-covered trees met with rime ice, and diamond dust. Snowshoeing through the silver world at an elevation of 2,237 meters is also recommended.

Ryuoo Ski Park boasts the largest elevation difference in Japan at 1,080 meters. Due to its high altitude, expect to find fluffy heaps of exquisite powder snow. With 18 courses categorized by difficulty level, the park caters to skiers and snowboarders of all abilities, from novice to advanced. Experienced skiers can challenge themselves on the steep "Kiotoshi Course" with a maximum incline of 36°. The sea of clouds viewed from the SORA Terrace at the top ropeway station is one stop you can’t forget.

The Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort, conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Karuizawa Station, features 16 diverse courses suitable for all levels. Beginners can enjoy the gentle slopes of the Prince Course with a maximum gradient of 18°, while intermediate and advanced skiers can challenge themselves on the 900 m long Panorama Course. The resort also offers a sled-only slope and ski schools where beginners and children can learn skiing techniques, ensuring a fun and safe experience for all visitors.

The Sugadaira Kogen Snow Resort, one of Japan's leading snow resorts, features 60 courses spread across three areas. It's often referred to as "the Davos of Japan" due to its Swiss-like scenery. The resort is popular not only for skiing and snowboarding but also for its guided tours on snow vehicles, which offer an exhilarating downhill experience over approximately 4 kilometers. The 360-degree panoramic view from the summit of Mount Neko and the towering frost-covered trees offer a breathtaking spectacle.

True to its aim of being "Japan's most family and beginner-friendly ski resort," it has newly opened a beginners' exclusive practice slope and a school-exclusive slope this season. The resort offers extensive school lessons, with daily high-quality instruction from top-level instructors.

Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort, located in Nozawa Onsen Village, Nagano Prefecture, ranks among Japan's largest ski slopes. It provides the finest powder snow on more than 40 courses. The comfortable gondola is like a moving terrace in the sky. Glass covers it all the way around to give a sense of openness and an excellent view over Nozawa Onsen surrounding.

Put on snowshoes designed for walking on snow and take a stroll! The snowshoes can be worn with any kind of shoes, including hiking shoes, making for an easy walking experience. If you join a guided tour, you will be glad to know that the tour guide will take you on a course suited to your fitness level and wishes.

"Kamakura Village," where locals make about 20 various sizes of snow huts. During the day, enjoy sledding, and at night, be moved by the fantastical world with lights. The restaurant inside a kamakura is also a must-visit.

The experience of harvesting cabbages in the snow is something you can only do in the village of Otari, which is in an area of heavy snowfall. You can enjoy the valuable experience of digging up cabbages from under about 2m of snow. Cabbages that grow in the snow are sweet and juicy as if they were fruits! After harvesting the cabbages, you can also enjoy a snack at a local farmhouse.