Ski Tohoku

Located at the north of Honshu island and spanning six prefectures, Tohoku is a favourite for skiers of all skill levels, with reliable heavy snowfall each season. Off the slopes the region is famous for its rich culture and heritage, hosting traditional festivals and with excellent onsen (hot springs) throughout.

Seeking a classical skiing experience that rivals the slopes of Aspen and St Moritz? A holiday in the Tohoku region in northern Honshu might be just the jaunt you’re seeking this snow season. The Tohoku region covers six prefectures, and despite its position on the main island of Honshu is famed for its stunning slopes that can be less crowded than other regions.

The far spanning reach of Tohoku means a variety of snow holidays can be found, including world-class snowboarding at Alts Bandai, which is the home of annual snowboarding competitions. If you’re partial to a more classic, glamorous style of ski holiday, then Appi Kogen Ski Resort is for you. Its famed attention to detail means high-quality, groomed runs as well as world-class dining.

Nestled amongst these worlds of adventure and glamour, Tohoku also offers the sort of traditional winter experiences you can only experience in Japan, including heritage hot springs and the famed snow monsters of Zao Onsen ski resort. The snow monsters, or juhyo, appear each winter after the forest of pine trees become covered in snow and ice, making an impressive phalanx of (friendly) creatures best observed at twilight.

Access from Narita Airport

• JR Narita Express from Narita Airport to Tokyo Station (60 minutes).
• JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Akita (4 hours).
• JR Yamagata Shinkansen from Tokyo to Yamagata (2.5 hours).
• JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Morioka (140 minutes).
• JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Sendai (120 minutes).
• JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Fukushima (90 minutes).

Appi Kogen Ski Resort

A popular destination that comes recommended by some major ski magazines, Appi Kogen is covered in quality powder snow and offers slopes to suit all levels.

Season: Late November to early May
Number of courses: 21 (30% Beginner, 40% Intermediate, 30% Advanced)
Number of lifts: 18
Longest course: 5.5km
Other info: Ski Park, Night Skiing, Ski School, Gear Rental, Kids Facilities

For further details please click here.

Zao Hot Springs Ski Resort

Zao is well known for its juhyo (snow monsters), formed by fine snow and small pieces of ice that cling to the fir trees. The result is a mountain covered in natural works of art. Ski around the monsters by day and then admire their beauty again as they are lit up by night.

Season: Early December to early May
Number of courses: 26 (40% Beginner, 40% Intermediate, 20% Advanced)
Number of lifts: 41
Longest course: 8km
Other info: Ski Park, Night Skiing, Ski School, Gear Rental, Kids Facilities

For further details please click here.

Alts Bandai

Particularly popular amongst snowboarders, Alts Bandai is home to world class snowboard competitions twice a year. However, from novice to pro, Alts Bandai has a slope for you.

Season: Mid December to Early April
Number of courses: 29 (35% Beginner, 40% Intermediate, 25% Advanced)
Number of lifts: 13
Longest course: 3.3km
Other info: Ski Park, Halfpipe, Night Skiing, Ski School, Gear Rental, Kids Facilities, Burton Learn to Ride School (English and Japanese)