A selection of ski resorts to visit in the Nagano area for adventure and a taste of Japanese culture.
The Nagano Powder Zone is built on three pillars: resort variety, powder chasing, and immersive cultural experiences—all packed into a dynamic six-day ride through Japan’s famed snow country. With access to a wide range of hand-picked resorts across Nagano Prefecture, you’ll experience the full breadth of terrain this region offers.
From the trip description by Japan Powder Culture Tours
On-snow support
- Independent: Below this trip's level of support
Ski or ride independently, without trip staff accompanying you on the mountain.
- Hosted: Included
Trip hosts ski or ride with the group, help everyone get oriented, and share local knowledge.
- Guided: Included
Professional guides lead the group and select suitable terrain and routes based on conditions and ability. Instruction is not included.
- Coached: Not confirmed
Professional coaches lead the group, select suitable terrain, and provide instruction and personalized feedback to help you improve.
- 6 days on snow with staff
- Resort guidingWe organize our groups based on similar riding ability, with a maximum guide-to-guest ratio of 1:6
Terrain, ability and who it is for
- Higher intermediate Level 4B and advanced Levels 5A/5B skiers and snowboarders.
- Groups matched by ability, with a maximum of six guests per guide.
- Guides offer instruction, but technical improvement is not guaranteed and depends on effort and mindset.
- Accurate self-assessment is required to maintain group pace.
- Nagano resorts selected for snow quality, quantity and quietness; daily choices follow weather and snow, and the same resort may be visited more than once.
- Possible Shiga Kogen areas: Oku Shiga Kogen, Yakebitaiyama, Ichinose, Giant, Yokote and Kumanoyu.
- Other possibilities: Madarao and Tangram tree runs, Togakushi powder, and Nozawa Onsen.
- Resort drives take 25–50 minutes, depending on destination and road conditions.
- At many Japanese resorts, terrain beyond marked runs is out of bounds.
- Sidecountry/slack-country routes typically run between marked trails and reconnect to groomers leading to the lifts.
- Off-piste guests must be competent and confident in ungroomed conditions and carry appropriate avalanche safety equipment.
- All off-piste guests receive an introduction to avalanche gear before heading out.
- Priorities: safety first, fun second, improvement third.
- Sport
- Ski + Snowboard
From the trip description by Japan Powder Culture Tours
What the price includes
Included
- Lodging
- Lift pass
- Meals · partly
- Transfers · partly
- 7 nights’ in twin, triple, or quad-share rooms (Japanese or Western-style)
- Single supplement available at each property
- Deluxe room upgrades offered at Hotel Omodaka
- Daily breakfasts
- 2 in-house dinners
- 6 full days of guided skiing or snowboarding
- Qualified ski guide/instructor (maximum 1:6 guest-to-instructor ratio)
- 8 daily lift passes
- Mountain transport to the best snow conditions each day
- Transport to the Snow Monkey Park (early access for guests at Yumoto and Omodaka)
- Evening performance with a second-generation Geisha
- Magic and comedy show (interactive)
- Interactive performances featuring Karate, Taiko drumming, Shamisen guitar, and Lion dance
- Daily access to rejuvenating onsens (including sauna at Hotel Omodaka)
- Optional karaoke night
- Option to take a rest day, with access to one of our self-guided cultural excursions: Snow Monkeys & Shibu Onsen; Obuse town & Hokusai Gallery; Zenkoji Temple & 1998 Olympic Museum
- Plus: plenty of hidden gems we’ll introduce along the way
Not included
- Flights
- Travel to/from Yudanaka
- Travel insurance (required)
- Lunches, snacks, alcohol
- Dinners (except the two specified)
Not confirmed by the company: Lesson.
Day by day
While this itinerary offers a general outline, we remain fully adaptable throughout the tour. Each day is shaped by weather, snow conditions, and where the powder is falling best. Evening highlights—such as Geisha performances, Taiko drumming, Karate demonstrations, and magic shows—are included, however the exact nights these occur may shift slightly depending on availability and scheduling.
- Day 1: Travel to Yudanaka, renowned both for its historic hot springs (over 1,300 years) and its proximity to the Snow Monkey Park. Whether you arrive via Japan’s world-class rail system or shuttle from Narita or Haneda airports, we'll coordinate pickup from your designated drop-off point. Due to varying arrival schedules and gear setup, the first evening meal is not included. Instead, we take the group to a local sushi train or one of Yudanaka’s excellent restaurants for a welcome dinner.
- Day 2: Ski the legendary Shiga Kogen — Japan’s oldest ski region and Asia’s largest, boasting 18 interlinked resorts and lift access up to 2,307 meters. After riding, unwind in an onsen, then enjoy drinks in the lounge bar. Dinner is in-house tonight, followed by an interactive performance by a second-generation Geisha from the local area.
- Day 3: We head to Madarao (nicknamed “Madapow”), a lesser-known gem with its own magical microclimate. It sees minimal foreign traffic and delivers incredible snow. On the way back, enjoy the chance to dine at one of Nagano’s few Okonomiyaki restaurants.
- Day 4: Depending on snow conditions, today’s destination is Nozawa Onsen — Japan’s second-largest resort on our itinerary with 300 hectares and over 50km of runs. Note: fatigue often peaks here after two full days of skiing. Feel free to take a rest day and enjoy optional cultural experiences.
- Day 5: We return to Shiga Kogen to explore more terrain. After dinner at one of Yudanaka’s outstanding eateries, enjoy a lively performance by Fred — a local magician with more than 30 years of international experience.
- Day 6: Today’s destination is Togakushi Ski Resort, known not only for great skiing but also its cultural significance. After skiing, we’ll visit Okusha Shrine and walk beneath towering cedar trees. Dinner is free choice in Yudanaka with your fellow guests.
- Day 7: We return once more to Shiga Kogen, venturing to Yokoteyama for the highest lift-accessed skiing in Japan. Tonight’s final dinner is in-house, followed by a Karate demonstration and lesson by a Japanese Grand Master, and Taiko drumming, shamisen guitar, and lion dance.
- Day 8: Before departing, experience one of Japan’s most iconic sights — the famous Snow Monkeys bathing in natural hot springs. To avoid crowds, we’ll drop you off early at the trailhead.
From the trip description by Japan Powder Culture Tours
Where you stay
Ryokan Yumoto (Deluxe): We’re incredibly honoured to work with Ryokan Yumoto, the oldest inn in the region, with a heritage stretching back over 300 years. Yumoto offers just five rooms, keeping the atmosphere intimate and quiet: Japanese-Western Room: 2 Western beds + 8 tatami mats; Standard Japanese Rooms: 14.5 tatami mats; Family Japanese Room: 18 tatami mats. Each room includes a private toilet, with bathing enjoyed in the traditional shared onsen house. You'll enjoy a multi-course traditional Japanese dinner, thoughtfully prepared and served in the ryokan’s dining room by your private waiter. Breakfasts, also included, are equally memorable.
Hotel Omodaka (Premium): Perched in the heart of Yudanaka Onsen, Hotel Omodaka has long been cherished for its tranquil atmosphere, stunning views of the Five Mountains of Hokushin, and genuine hospitality. Twin, triple, and quad-share rooms feature tatami flooring, futon bedding, and a private ensuite bathroom. The Deluxe Western Rooms are nearly double the size of our standard rooms, featuring two Western beds plus two futons to comfortably accommodate up to four people (available at an additional cost). The hotel boasts both an indoor Japanese bathhouse (onsen) and a scenic outdoor hot spring (rotenburo), plus an on-site sauna—a rare luxury in Yudanaka. Dinner is a highlight at Omodaka, with a multi-course traditional Japanese meal served in the dining room. Breakfast is also included and features a buffet-style spread with a mix of Western and Japanese options.
Snow Monkey Lodge (Economy): Just 200 metres from Yudanaka Station, Snow Monkey Lodge has become something of a local icon. Rooms feature tatami mat flooring, Western-style beds, and traditional yukata robes. Separate gendered onsens for men and women offer a classic Japanese bathing experience. Continental breakfast included daily (cereals, fresh fruit, toast, hot and cold drinks). The included dinners are hosted at Hotel Omodaka, where you’ll enjoy an elegant multi-course Japanese meal, served in the hotel’s dining room.
Getting there
Arrive via Japan’s world-class train system or pre-arranged shuttles from Narita or Haneda airports. We’ll pick you up at Yudanaka Station or your designated shuttle drop-off (please let us know your arrival details at least one day in advance).
Ryokan Yumoto provides free pickup and drop-off at the train station, and early shuttle service to the Snow Monkey Park. Hotel Omodaka provides complimentary pickup and drop-off at Yudanaka Station. They also offer early-morning shuttle service to the Snow Monkey Park.
Snow Monkey Lodge: while we don’t offer a pickup service, the lodge is just a short walk from the station and we’re happy to help arrange a taxi if needed.
Not included: Flights. Travel to/from Yudanaka.
Sitting 600 metres above sea level, Yudanaka is a central hub for exploring many of Nagano’s surrounding ski resorts. Drive times to the resorts range from 25 to 50 minutes.
From the trip description by Japan Powder Culture Tours
Pins show the approximate main trip area—not a route, meeting point, or full itinerary. Confirm exact locations in the company's trip details.
Dates and prices
| Dates | Season | Duration | From | Availability | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 19 – Dec 26, 2026Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 8 days | 389,000 JPY¥389,000 pp, Economy Snow Monkey Lodge male/female dormitory; twin share ¥399,000; Premium Hotel Omodaka from ¥459,000; Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto from ¥519,000. | Limited | Enquire on company website |
| Dec 27, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 8 days | 389,000 JPY¥389,000 pp, Economy Snow Monkey Lodge male/female dormitory; twin share ¥399,000; Premium Hotel Omodaka from ¥459,000; Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto from ¥519,000. | Limited | Enquire on company website |
| Jan 4 – Jan 11, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 8 days | 389,000 JPY¥389,000 pp, Economy Snow Monkey Lodge male/female dormitory; twin share ¥399,000; Premium Hotel Omodaka from ¥459,000; Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto from ¥519,000. | Limited | Enquire on company website |
| Jan 14 – Jan 21, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 8 days | 389,000 JPY¥389,000 pp, Economy Snow Monkey Lodge male/female dormitory; twin share ¥399,000; Premium Hotel Omodaka from ¥459,000; Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto from ¥519,000. | Limited | Enquire on company website |
| Jan 24 – Jan 31, 2027Choose these datesDate row "24th to 31st Jan 2027 SOLD OUT". | 2026/27 | 8 days | 389,000 JPY¥389,000 pp, Economy Snow Monkey Lodge male/female dormitory; twin share ¥399,000; Premium Hotel Omodaka from ¥459,000; Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto from ¥519,000. | Sold Out | Enquire on company website |
| Feb 3 – Feb 10, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 8 days | 389,000 JPY¥389,000 pp, Economy Snow Monkey Lodge male/female dormitory; twin share ¥399,000; Premium Hotel Omodaka from ¥459,000; Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto from ¥519,000. | Sold Out | Enquire on company website |
| Feb 13 – Feb 20, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 8 days | 389,000 JPY¥389,000 pp, Economy Snow Monkey Lodge male/female dormitory; twin share ¥399,000; Premium Hotel Omodaka from ¥459,000; Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto from ¥519,000. | Sold Out | Enquire on company website |
| Feb 23 – Mar 2, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 8 days | 389,000 JPY¥389,000 pp, Economy Snow Monkey Lodge male/female dormitory; twin share ¥399,000; Premium Hotel Omodaka from ¥459,000; Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto from ¥519,000. | Limited | Enquire on company website |
| Mar 5 – Mar 12, 2027Choose these dates | 2026/27 | 8 days | 389,000 JPY¥389,000 pp, Economy Snow Monkey Lodge male/female dormitory; twin share ¥399,000; Premium Hotel Omodaka from ¥459,000; Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto from ¥519,000. | Limited | Enquire on company website |
Prices, taxes and fees, required extras, inclusions, availability, and booking terms can change. Confirm the current price and trip details on the company website; details as of September 2, 2026.
Good to know
Optional Add-Ons: Avalanche safety gear rental: ¥3,000/day (includes beacon, probe, shovel, pack).
Full ski & snowboard rental store: includes clothing, helmets, goggles, boots, poles, carving and powder skis/boards (rates on request).
Private outdoor onsen and sauna rental: ¥10,000 per session (ideal for couples or small groups).
Single supplement: Snow Monkey Lodge ¥21,000 per person; Hotel Omodaka ¥42,000 per person.
Deluxe Western room upgrade at Hotel Omodaka: ¥56,000 per person.
Additional nights or private guiding: Please inquire.
Travel insurance (required).
Please enquire for tours between 13th March and 15th April; over this period the cultural evenings are based around a minimum of 8 guests, so if we do not attain that number the events do not proceed and the cost is refunded to guests.
A full pdf pack is available which includes tour details, FAQ's, pre trip information, reviews, terms and conditions and customer information spreadsheet.
From the trip description by Japan Powder Culture Tours
