Australians seeking the perfect ski or snowboard escape can ditch the long flights and time zone woes. Japan offers incredible powder snow, diverse resorts for all levels, and short flights making it the ultimate snow destination from Down Under.

Japan's 2023/2024 ski season wraps! ❄️ Experience epic powder days like our team's adventure in Appi & plan your dream Japan ski trip with our early bird specials. Get a sneak peek at next season – contact The Snow Concierge today!

If you’re not concerned about known brands, this is where the real bargains can be had. As recently as three weeks ago, we saw adult beginner snowboard sets on sale in Tokyo for ¥29,900 (around AU$310) for a snowboard, set of bindings AND boots!!)

A few highlights from The Snow Concierge’s month on the ground in Japan.

The snow engines are firing up and while some resorts have been affected by a bit of rain this week, this weekend promises to be the start of a sustained period of snow across most regions.

It’s not quite summer yet in Australia, which means it’s still autumn in Japan but that hasn’t stopped snow from falling!

You’ve heard all about the phenomenal snow, the incredible cultural experience and pretty much everyone you’ve ever met has told you it’s one of the best snow destinations on the planet but you’re not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered with some tips that will help make your Japan snow trip dream a reality – everything from when to go, to choosing the right resort.

At The Snow Concierge, the only thing we want you to have to think about is which chairlift to ride and what time to stop for lunch.

From the moment you arrive in Nozawa Onsen and wander the snow-covered streets, you will see what the hype is about. The village, with its narrow lanes and traditional wooden buildings, feels like a page from a history book. But this magical setting is only the backdrop to what is to come.

The Snow Concierge was one of the first international visitors to realise Hakuba’s huge potential while working for a US television network during the Nagano Winter Olympic games, and it has been a fast favourite ever since. 

You’ve probably heard about the amazing culture, the delicious food, and the incredible sights which are reason enough to visit Japan. When you add in the abundance and quality of the snow, amazing infrastructure, and excellent and varied accommodation options, Japan really stacks up as a great option for your next ski vacation.

Ok, we might be a teensy bit biased, but we think there’s no such thing as a ‘bad time’ to visit Japan…that said, if you’re after some of that incredible powder that Japan is famous for, then there are definitely times when the winter months are more likely to deliver optimal conditions.

Here’s a breakdown of what we love about the five most popular resorts on the Japanese mainland of Honshu

Hakuba is perfect for families, with heaps of skiable terrain and no end of things to keep you occupied on rest days.

The Snow Concierge team was lucky enough to spend a few days in Singapore last week at the FCTG Independent Conference which brings together leading independent travel agents from all over Australia.