Enjoy Spectacular Views and JAPOW! Five Prince Snow Resorts Renowned for Their Snow Quality
“JAPOW” (Japan Powder Snow) refers to the uniquely Japanese powder snow that captivates ski and snowboard enthusiasts around the world.
Its greatest appeal lies in its light, dry texture with little moisture, which provides a floating sensation as if gliding on clouds.
Every year, countless skiers from overseas visit Japan in search of this exquisite snow.
This article introduces five carefully selected resorts from the “Prince Snow Resorts,” operated by Prince Hotels, that are renowned as ski areas with excellent snow quality where visitors can fully enjoy “JAPOW.”
These are must-visit destinations both for those who wish to experience the world-famous powder snow and for those who wish to be soothed by breathtaking snowy landscapes.
What Are Prince Snow Resorts?
“Prince Snow Resorts” are ski resorts operated by Prince Hotels.
They are located across the country, earning high praise in snow-rich regions from Hokkaido to Nagano and Niigata.
A distinctive feature is that they are “stay-type ski resorts,” integrating accommodation, hot springs, dining, and activities.
They also offer ski slopes directly connected to hotels and extensive facilities for children.
With a wide variety of courses designed for everyone from beginners to advanced skiers, these resorts allow visitors to enjoy the snowy mountains in comfort.
What Is Japan’s Unique “Powder Snow”?
“JAPOW” (Japan Powder Snow), which has gained worldwide attention among ski enthusiasts, refers to Japan’s unique, light and fluffy powder snow.
In many overseas regions, snowfall is limited, and artificial snow or heavy, wet snow is common.
In contrast, Japanese ski resorts receive abundant natural snowfall, with an exceptionally light snow quality.
The secret lies in the cold air masses that blow in from Siberia across the Sea of Japan.
This air, heavy with moisture after crossing the sea, collides with Japan’s mountain ranges, bringing snow almost daily.
In particular, Hokkaido, being closer to Siberia, experiences drier air with less moisture, resulting in even lighter, finer powder snow.
It is precisely because of these natural conditions unique to Japan that the world’s most coveted powder snow can be enjoyed here.
5 Prince Snow Resorts with Excellent Snow Quality
From among the many Prince Snow Resorts, this article highlights five ski resorts renowned for their snow quality.
These resorts are all located either along the Sea of Japan side or in high-altitude areas.
From late December through late February, they receive an abundance of light, dry powder snow, which has many skiers and snowboarders hooked.
The cold temperatures keep the snow from becoming wet, allowing skiers to enjoy the sensation of floating as they glide.
Each resort offers courses ranging from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging steep runs and long courses for advanced skiers, ensuring enjoyment for all levels.
Additionally, they feature well-developed facilities such as hot springs and restaurants.
Visitors can comfortably spend their time while experiencing Japan’s world-renowned powder snow.
Use this guide as a reference when choosing ski resorts in Japan.
1. Furano Ski Resort (Hokkaido)
Furano Ski Resort is located just 10 minutes by car from downtown Furano in Hokkaido.
It is also known as part of the “Hokkaido Powder Belt,” one of the world’s top regions for powder snow.
The resort is divided into two areas: the “Furano Zone” and the “Kitanomine Zone,” offering a total of 28 diverse courses.
In 2022, to commemorate its 60th anniversary, six new courses making use of the natural terrain were opened.
Among them, “Furano Forest,” where visitors can glide through a maze-like forest, and “Furano Wave,” where ups, downs, and jumps can be enjoyed, are popular with children and beginners.
The resort also features a well-developed kids’ ski school and family activity area, attracting many families during the winter holidays. Night skiing is available as well, allowing guests to enjoy the slopes at night.
2. Kagura Ski Resort (Niigata)
Kagura Ski Resort, located in Yuzawa Town, Minamiuonuma District, Niigata Prefecture, is a vast ski area divided into three zones: “Kagura,” “Mitsumata,” and “Tashiro.”
It offers a maximum run of 6,000 meters and a total of 30 courses.
It is also famous for being one of Japan’s snowiest resorts, with an average snow depth of around 350 cm maintained throughout the season.
In the Kagura area, intermediate and advanced skiers can enjoy courses such as the popular “Kagura Main Trail” and the “Expert Trail in the Forest,” which starts at an altitude of 1,800 meters.
Meanwhile, the Mitsumata and Tashiro areas are well-suited for beginners and families.
The Tashiro area is connected to Naeba Ski Resort. Visitors can also access the slopes via the “Dragondola,” Japan’s longest gondola at approximately 5.5 km, as well as by express and local buses.
The resort is open from late November until late May, attracting many Japanese skiers even in the late season for its excellent snow conditions.
3. Muikamachi Hakkaisan Ski Resort (Niigata)
This ski resort is located on Mt. Hakkaisan in Minamiuonuma City, Niigata Prefecture, an area known for heavy snowfall.
It offers a total of 11 courses, catering to everyone from beginners to advanced skiers.
During peak season, visitors can enjoy deep powder snow almost daily.
The downhill course, stretching 3,000 meters with an elevation difference of about 800 meters, features steep slopes suited for advanced skiers, offering a challenging and exhilarating ride.
At the base of the mountain, there is a “Kids’ Trail” safely enclosed by nets.
In addition, within the long 5.3 km course from the ropeway summit, there is a designated “Slow Zone.”
With areas separated by skill level, the resort provides a comfortable experience for beginners and children as well.
4. Shiga Kogen Yakebitaiyama Ski Resort (Nagano)
Shiga Kogen Yakebitaiyama Ski Resort, located in Yamanouchi Town, Shimotakai District, Nagano Prefecture, is known as a venue for the 1998 Winter Olympics.
It has a total of 20 courses.
Its snow quality, referred to as “Platinum Powder,” is characterized by being dry and light.
One of its representative courses, the “Panorama Trail,” offers sweeping views of the Northern Alps and the Hokushin Five Mountains.
On the “Olympic Trail,” which once served as an Olympic venue, visitors can ski on the same slopes used in competition.
Special courses are also available, such as the steep “YAKEBI WALL” with a maximum slope of 39 degrees and the wide “YAKEBI VALLEY,” spanning 111 meters across. These are opened under certain conditions only.
In 2024, a new course named “YAKEBI COAST” was added.
The resort is also developing new Tree-run Trails to meet the needs of skiers and snowboarders seeking thrill and excitement.
5. Myoko Suginohara Ski Resort (Niigata)
Myoko Suginohara Ski Resort is located on the slopes of Mt. Myoko in Myoko City, Niigata Prefecture.
It is about 10 minutes by car from Myoko-Kogen Station and about 9 minutes from the Myoko-Kogen Interchange on the Joshinetsu Expressway, making it highly accessible.
Of its 16 courses, about 80% are designed for beginners and intermediate skiers, offering slopes that are easy to navigate.
Its most famous feature is the long course with a maximum elevation difference of 1,124 meters and a total length of about 8.5 km.
With both impressive length and scale, it allows for extended ski runs.
The snow park is equipped with around 40 different features.
At the same time, advanced skiers can enjoy areas such as the cross course and mogul course.
The Suginohara Gondola takes skiers to the summit in about 15 minutes.
Along the course, there is also a photo spot featuring the “Shinano Tree,” estimated to be 200 years old.
For a Premium Experience: “First Track” at Prince Snow Resorts
“First Track” offers the chance to experience untouched fresh snow before anyone else.
Guests can head up the mountain before regular operating hours and enjoy the slopes entirely to themselves.
Prince Hotels offer exclusive First Track plans for hotel guests.
Enjoy this special opportunity to ski freely while basking in the glow of the rising morning sun.
Wrap-Up
“Powder Snow,” born from Japan’s unique climate and geography, captivates skiers and snowboarders worldwide with its light, dry texture and floating sensation while gliding.
In addition to this world-class snow quality, Prince Snow Resorts are highly rated as destinations where visitors can also enjoy a comfortable stay.
Their diverse course layouts, accommodating beginners, advanced skiers, and families alike, are another major attraction.
For those who wish to experience “JAPOW” in the best possible environment, Prince Snow Resorts are truly the ideal choice.
Consider adding these ski resorts, known for their exceptional snow quality, to your list of winter destinations.