The Ultimate Guide to Skiing and Snowboarding in Nagano – You Must Know

The Ultimate Guide to Skiing and Snowboarding in Nagano – You Must Know

Nagano is a fantastic destination for skiing and snowboarding, with some of Japan’s best slopes and stunning mountain scenery. Here are a few interesting things you can do in the Nagano area:

Explore the ski resorts:

Hakuba Valley: One of the most famous ski areas in Japan, offering multiple resorts with varied terrain. It’s been a popular destination for both beginners and experienced skiers/snowboarders.
Nozawa Onsen: A charming traditional village with great snow conditions and the bonus of natural hot springs to relax in after a day on the slopes.
Shiga Kogen: Known for having a large area with different resorts and a variety of runs. It’s great if you like to explore different terrains in a single day.
Ryuo Ski Park: A smaller resort but with some of the best freestyle terrain, and the snow park is amazing for snowboarders.
Try backcountry skiing or snowboarding: Nagano has plenty of off-piste options if you’re into backcountry skiing or splitboarding, and there are guides available to help you safely navigate the terrain.

Enjoy the hot springs (Onsen): After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the soothing hot springs that are scattered throughout the area. Some places have outdoor baths with views of the mountains—perfect for relaxation.

Snow Monkeys (Jigokudani Monkey Park): If you’re in the area, it’s worth visiting the famous snow monkeys that soak in the hot springs. It’s a unique sight, especially in winter when the monkeys are covered in snow.

Try snowshoeing or snowmobiling: If you want a break from skiing, snowshoeing is a peaceful way to explore the snow-covered forests. You can also go on a snowmobile tour to cover larger areas.

Eat local food: Nagano is known for delicious local food like soba noodles, grilled fish, and other mountain cuisine. After a long day of skiing, enjoying a hearty meal in one of the cozy local inns or restaurants is a treat.