The beginning of winter and first snow are a magical time of the year when many of us take out our winter sports gear to get it in tip-top condition before the season. Let it be skiing or snowboarding, all winter sports are more enjoyable on a slope with breath-taking views and top notch snow. Japan is famous for its world class powder snow which provides the best conditions for winter sports enthusiasts and allows you to smoothly glide down the slopes. Take a look at our top list of the best areas to get you pumped and ready for the future!

Tom Mayes took up Japanese as something 'new' in college which changed the tracks of his life. One of the founding creators of the Experience Japan Exhibition which inspires UK students to come and study in Japan, he wanted to forge new connections between the two countries closest to his heart. His interest in hiking in Japan was sparked by the stunning sunset view behind Nagano's Mt. Asanoyama he witnessed from his shinkansen seat...

Just like birds migrate to warmer areas in the south for the winter, major Japanese festivals shift to the north of the country! The most northern prefecture Hokkaido and the Tohoku area sport the best snow for skiing adventures which also creates an unforgettable backdrop for many winter festivals.Check out our list of top 6 festivals you can't miss on your next winter trip!  

North Japan is often associated with remote landscapes but this UNESCO World Heritage site was a big exception. Steph Marley's passion for premodern Japanese poetry and the history of the Tohoku region led her to a master's degree and a passion for this 'Lost Mirror of Kyoto'. She tells us what makes this place so incredibly special and how best to access and experience this slice of Old Japan.