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, you don’t have to travel far from the capital to make the most of the country’s world-class snow.
From Tokyo, there are plenty of excellent alpine destinations just a few hours away. And they are already gearing up for the 2022–2023 winter season. While there aren’t as many all-inclusive packages available this time round, there are still lots of good value ski and snowsport packages.
Not into skiing or snowboarding, but still want snowy winter vibes? Scroll down to the end for tours that include sledding, snowshoeing, Fuji-spotting, or crab-feasting.
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.
Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort Lift Pass + Rental Package
¥7,800
Book here: Hakuba Goryu Package
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 adult lift pass and equipment rental for ¥7,800. Usually this would cost ¥11,500, 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
From ¥18,000
Book here: Yuzawa Package
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 ¥18,000 for 2 hours, up to ¥48,000 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 ¥18,000 2-hour lesson suddenly becomes ¥3,600 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. Both of the following packages are multi-night trips with fantastic inclusion — but that comes at a cost. Also, keep in mind that both have fairly limited availability for this season so get in quick.
Nozawa Onsen Earlybird 7 Night Package
¥82,000 (for two people)
Book here: Nozawa Onsen Earlybird Package
NOTE: This package is ONLY available to Australian passport holders departing Australia for Japan.
This classic package includes twin-room accommodation in a mountain lodge in Nozawa Onsen in Nagano Prefecture. In addition to its numerous ski resorts, the area is well-known for it’s onsen (hot springs).
The package also includes lift passes, breakfast, and free overnight equipment storage. However, this promotion is only available for Aussies looking to escape the summer heat with a ski trip.
Nagano Ski Buffet
¥398,975
Book here: Nagano Ski Buffet
Unusually named though it may be, you can’t deny that this 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.
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.
Fujiten Snow Resort and Lake Kawaguchi Day Trip
December 20 – March 15¥10,800 (adult), ¥7,500 (child)
Book here: Fujiten Snow Resort and Lake Kawaguchi Day Trip
This day trip is perfect for families visiting Tokyo during the winter. Hotel pick-up and minibus transport give you peace of mind and make the trip smooth from the outset. You’ll visit Lake Kawaguchi and enjoy the view of Mt. Fuji before heading to Fujiten Ski Resort. There you’ll have free time to get lunch (not included) and sled (rental included) in a child-friendly enclosed area.
Nagano Snowshoe Hiking Tour
December 25 – March 31¥11,000 (per person for a group of 2)
Book here: Nagano Snowshoe Hiking Tour
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.
Sledding, strawberries and all-you-can-eat crab in Gunma
¥13,980
Book here: Gunma Day Trip
Note: This tour has limited availability, so make sure to check the dates in advance.
If the idea of enjoying the apres-ski life without having to ski is appealing to you, then this day-trip package to Gunma is perfect. The trip includes snow sports, strawberry picking, and an all-you-can-eat crab feast in one tidy action-packed deal. Your stomach will thank you.
While we do our best to ensure it’s correct, information is subject to change. Last updated in November 2022 by Maria Danuco.