March is an excellent month to hit the slopes in Japan. The snow is still plentiful, the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinning out. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, Japan has plenty of ski resorts that offer world-class slopes and stunning scenery. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best destinations for skiing in March in Japan.
One of the main advantages of skiing in March in Japan is the abundance of fresh powder. This is thanks to the country’s unique geography, which creates ideal conditions for heavy snowfall. Additionally, the slopes are less crowded in March, so you can enjoy more runs without having to wait in long lift lines.
The Best Ski Resorts for March Skiing in Japan
| Resort | Location | Distance from Tokyo | Number of Runs | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Niseko | Hokkaido | 2 hours by plane | 38 | Intermediate/Advanced |
| Hakuba | Nagano | 4-5 hours by train | 135 | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Furano | Hokkaido | 2 hours by plane | 23 | Intermediate |
| Shiga Kogen | Nagano | 3-4 hours by train | 21 | All Levels |
| Myoko Kogen | Niigata | 2-3 hours by train | 41 | All Levels |
Niseko
Niseko is a world-renowned ski resort in Hokkaido that is famous for its massive amounts of light, fluffy powder. March is a particularly good time to visit because the snow is still abundant, but the crowds are starting to thin out. The resort is made up of four interconnected mountains that offer a range of runs for all levels. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Niseko also offers a variety of other winter activities, such as snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and hot springs.
Hakuba
Hakuba is another popular ski resort that is located in Nagano. It is known for its wide variety of runs, including some of the steepest slopes in Japan. March is an ideal time to visit because the snow is still plentiful, but the weather is milder than in January and February. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Hakuba also offers other winter activities, such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and hot springs.
Furano
Furano is a hidden gem in Hokkaido that is well-suited to intermediate skiers. The resort boasts some of the longest runs in Japan, as well as stunning views of the surrounding mountains. March is a great time to visit because the snow is still abundant, but the crowds are starting to thin out. Furano is also known for its delicious food, including local delicacies like seafood and Hokkaido-style ramen.
Shiga Kogen
Shiga Kogen is one of the largest ski resorts in Japan, with 21 interconnected ski areas that offer a range of runs for all levels. It is located in Nagano, which hosted the Winter Olympics in 1998. March is an ideal time to visit because the snow is still plentiful, but the crowds are starting to thin out. The resort also offers other winter activities, such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and hot springs.
Myoko Kogen
Myoko Kogen is a charming ski resort that is located in Niigata, on the east coast of Japan. It is known for its abundance of powder snow and its stunning views of the Sea of Japan. March is an ideal time to visit because the snow is still plentiful, but the weather is milder than in January and February. The resort also offers other winter activities, such as snowshoeing, ice-skating, and hot springs.
FAQ
When is the best time to ski in Japan?
The best time to ski in Japan is from mid-December to early April, although the exact dates vary depending on the resort. December and January offer the best powder snow, while March is an ideal time to visit because the crowds are starting to thin out.
Can I ski in Japan if I’m a beginner?
Yes, Japan has plenty of ski resorts that are well-suited to beginners. Hakuba and Myoko Kogen are particularly good options because they offer a range of runs for all levels.
Do I need to speak Japanese to ski in Japan?
No, many ski resorts in Japan cater to international visitors and have English-speaking staff. However, it’s always a good idea to learn some basic Japanese phrases to help you communicate with locals.
What other winter activities are available in Japan?
Japan offers a wide variety of winter activities, including snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice-skating, and hot springs. Some resorts also offer more unique experiences, such as night skiing, snow rafting, and ice fishing.
What should I pack for a ski trip to Japan?
You should pack warm, waterproof clothing, including gloves, a hat, and a ski jacket and pants. You should also bring sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s glare. Additionally, you should bring cash, as some smaller resorts may not accept credit cards.
Final Thoughts
March is an excellent time to ski in Japan, with plenty of fresh powder and fewer crowds than earlier in the season. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, Japan has plenty of ski resorts that offer world-class slopes and stunning scenery. We hope this guide has helped you choose the best destination for your next ski trip to Japan!
Enjoy your skiing!