Best Ski Resorts in Honshu, Japan & Long-Term Gear Storage

Japan is a world-class ski destination famous for its Japow (Japanese powder snow), breathtaking landscapes, and rich ski culture. While Niseko in Hokkaido often grabs the spotlight, Honshu—Japan’s main island—offers equally incredible ski resorts worth exploring. Discover the top ski resorts in Honshu and learn how to store your ski and snowboard gear long-term for hassle-free travel.

Top Ski Resorts in Honshu, Japan

1. Hakuba Valley (Nagano) – The Olympic Experience

Famous for hosting the 1998 Winter Olympics, Hakuba Valley is an expansive ski area consisting of 10 interconnected resorts. With a mix of beginner-friendly slopes, challenging off-piste terrain, and scenic backcountry trails, it caters to all skill levels.

Fun Fact: Hakuba Valley features some of Japan’s steepest runs, reaching up to 35 degrees.

Travel Light, Ski More: Store your ski and snowboard gear with SilkCrane’s long-term storage service to avoid carrying bulky equipment.

2. Shiga Kogen (Nagano) – Japan’s Largest Ski Area

Shiga Kogen is Japan’s largest ski resort, comprising 19 interconnected ski areas. With a mix of gentle beginner runs and advanced off-piste zones, it’s ideal for all levels.

Fun Fact: Shiga Kogen hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics, featuring the slalom and giant slalom events.

Make Every Trip Easier: Store your ski equipment in Japan and enjoy stress-free travel.

3. Nozawa Onsen (Nagano) – Skiing Meets Tradition

Nozawa Onsen offers top-tier skiing alongside an authentic Japanese onsen (hot spring) experience. It’s famous for tree skiing and family-friendly runs.

Fun Fact: Nozawa Onsen is home to the Dosojin Fire Festival, a spectacular January event.

Stress-Free Ski Trips: Avoid lugging heavy gear—store your equipment long-term.

4. Naeba Ski Resort (Niigata) – A Premier Ski Destination

Naeba is a modern ski resort that frequently hosts international competitions. It connects to Kagura Ski Resort via Japan’s longest gondola—the Dragondola.

5. Lotte Arai Resort (Niigata) – Luxury and Powder Combined

Lotte Arai Resort is known for luxury accommodations, high snowfall, and expansive backcountry access.

Fun Fact: Lotte Arai Resort is one of the few ski resorts in Japan where off-piste skiing is fully permitted and encouraged, making it a paradise for powder seekers.

Store Your Gear in Japan: Keep your ski equipment safe and accessible—use SilkCrane’s long-term storage service to make your trips seamless.

6. Seki Onsen (Niigata) – Deep Powder Paradise

Seki Onsen is a hidden gem with deep powder snow and minimal crowds.

Fun Fact: Seki Onsen is one of the snowiest ski resorts in Japan, with annual snowfall often exceeding 15 meters, creating a true deep-powder experience.

Never Haul Heavy Gear Again: Store your snowboard and ski equipment in Japan and enjoy stress-free trips.

7. Charmant Hiuchi (Niigata) – Backcountry Heaven

Charmant Hiuchi offers off-piste freedom and backcountry access with consistently deep snowfall.

Fun Fact: Due to its location near the Sea of Japan, Charmant Hiuchi benefits from heavy snowfall, making it one of the best spots for untouched powder skiing.

Secure Your Ski Gear for Future Trips: Store your ski and snowboard equipment in Japan and travel with ease.

8. X-JAM Takaifuji (Nagano) – Freestyle Paradise

X-JAM Takaifuji is Japan’s top freestyle skiing and snowboarding resort with extensive terrain parks.

Fun Fact: X-JAM Takaifuji is home to one of the longest terrain park lines in Japan, featuring jumps, rails, and obstacles designed for all skill levels.

Keep Your ski and snowboard Gear Ready: Store your ski and snowboard gear in Japan and make your next trip worry-free.