Guide To Snowboarding Japan
It might not have quite made it into the wider American cultural zeitgeist quite yet, but it’s definitely no secret that Japan has some of the greatest powder snowboarding and downhill skiing on the planet. With some of the world’s highest annual snowfall and a myriad of resorts to choose from, it should be on every winter enthusiast’s bucket list. If you’re in the market for a winter getaway, there’s no better place to buy a lift pass. If you are visiting for the first time in 2016, here’s a guide to take you from the slopes to the izakaya .
Getting Here
Most will fly into either Narita Airport about 30 minutes outside of Tokyo or Haneda Airport in the heart of the city. Connecting flights to Hokkaido depart from both airports, so double check before your book.
The public transportation in Japan is amazing. Trains and buses can get you to nearly anywhere in the country. If you are traveling with a lot of gear you can ship it directly from the airport to your hotel and save yourself the hassle of lugging it around. It will usually arrive within a day and is a great idea if you plan on exploring Tokyo for a day or two when you arrive.
There are also several rental car options available. Be sure to pick up a sim card or portable wifi router at the vending machine (yes, the vending machine) to keep you connect to Google Maps. While most traffic signs are in English, it can get tricky once you get into the mountains.
What To Expect
Snow — The weather in Japan can be tricky and completely unpredictable with A LOT of snow. It’s not uncommon for areas like Niseko in Hokkaido to dump everyday. The area receives up to 15 feet of powder annually.
Lost in Translation — Japan can be a frustrating place to communicate, but nearly everyone tries their best. The nation continues to improve the use of English writing, however many restaurant menus, convenience store labels, and hotels can be challenging.
Heated Toilets — Japanese hotels, homes, and apartment tend to be colder than western style, but they more than make up for it with heated toilet seats. Be warned — it’s hard to go back to anything else after you try.
What To Bring
Japan is obsessed with gear and nearly anything you could want is available to buy. Ogawamachi in Tokyo is known as the “Sporting Goods District” and you can often find some amazing deals here. This is also a great place to pick up your favorite western energy bars or gels since most stores will only carry Japanese brands.
Powder Gear — If finding untouched sugary powder is you think than be sure to pack your powder boards or skis.
Clear Goggle Lenses — Riding at night in Japan is amazing. Bring your clear lenses, wear an extra layer, and be prepared to score.
International Driver's Licence — While Japan’s legendary bullet trains and public transportation can get you to the slopes, many of the best resorts can only be reached by car (don’t forget that Japan drives on the left). You can also check your accommodations if they provide transport.
Power Adapter — Japan uses the two prong system for charging your GoPro, iPhone, and Bluetooth speaker. Stop at any 100 yen store to buy one or use your Apple plug with an USB power cables.
Where To Go
There are literally hundreds of resorts in Japan. While many of the local mountains have a few secret runs the larger resorts have easy access to off-piste riding. Be sure to respect the resort rules and know your limits. Here are three best areas to score some powder.
Hokkaido — Japan’s northernmost island and mecca for international riders. With a claim to some of the world’s driest powder and highest annual snowfalls it’s easy to see why. Niseko is well known to the Australian and Kiwi riders escaping the southern hemisphere summer, but resorts like Kiroro Snow World and Asahidake are fantastic gems for escaping the crowds.
Nagano — Home to the 1998 Winter Olympics, Nagano Prefecture has easy access from Tokyo and a variety of mountains and attractions to choose from including the “snow monsters” at Zao Ski Resort and the hot springs at the Nozawa Ski Resort. In Hakuba twelve of the major resorts have teamed up to offer the “Hakuba Valley Ticket” package, which gives discounts on multiple day lift tickets to be used at any of the participating resorts.
Gumma / Niigata — These resorts straddling the border of these prefectures are the easiest to access from Tokyo. Resorts like Gala Yuzawa have a gondola directly from the Shinkansen station. The larger resorts tend to be crowded, however smaller resorts like Tenjindaira have a pristine backcountry and receives the 5th most snow in all of Japan.
What to Eat
Unlike the standard burger and fries of western ski lodges, in Japan there is an amazing variety of winter favorites to warm you up and give some fuel for an afternoon of riding. Here are some of my favorites.
Ramen — Fresh hot noodles in a rich soup can warm the soul and make you smile. Choose from a variety of soups: Miso, Salt, or Pork broth. My personal favorite is Hokkaido’s famous butter-miso ramen.
Katsu-Curry — A breaded and fried pork cutlet with rice topped with Japanese curry. This hearty dish is my go-to every winter. Sweet, rich Japanese curry is highly underrated.
Gyudon — Grilled pork with a sesame sauce over rice topped with grilled onions. Usually includes a side of miso soup.
Tongiru — A kind of Miso Soup with pork and a lot of root vegetables such as Gobo (burdock root), potatoes, and carrots. Order by itself or as a side dish to your katsu-curry or gyudon.
Onigiri — Great for throwing in your bag and enjoying on the lift, onigiri are rice balls with a variety of fillings. From salmon filets to seaweed there is a huge variety and are delicious snack.
What to Drink
Drinking in Japan is amazing. The relaxed public drinking laws, amazing selection, and culture of bonding over drinks make having a beer a must. On the slopes, in the lodge, or after a hard day of riding is a great time to sample the latest craft beer selection or sip some the Japan’s legendary whiskey.
Whiskey — It’s no secret anymore that Japan produces some of the finest whiskeys on the planet. The 2015 edition of Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible named Suntory’s Yamazaki Single Malt Sherry Cask 2013 the best whisky in the world. Other notables are the Yamazaki Single Malt 12 Years and Nikka Whisky From The Barrel
Craft Beer — Japan has been experiencing a renaissance in craft beer making. If you are visiting Nagano be sure to sample a beer from the Shiga Kogen brewery which shares the same name as Japan’s largest ski resort. Amazingly, many convenience stores stock a great selection of regional brews.
Sake — Sake is a complex refined drink that can be enjoyed with a meal or by itself. Depending on the variety a cup of warm sake can be another reminder of how awesome Japan is.
After Hours
Other than areas like Niseko or Hakuba, the nightlife in Japan’s mountain towns can be tame in comparison to other international hotspots. That doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Enjoy some of the beauty of Japanese culture for an experience unlike any other.
Onsen — Nothing beats a big day of riding than a relaxing dip in a Japanese Hot Springs. Areas like Nozawa have a large selection to choose from and many resorts also have one.
Izakaya — The traditional Japanese pub. Great food and atmosphere to enjoy a few beers and experience one of the best parts of the Japanese lifestyle. Most locals and staff alike are happy to share a recommendation of their favorite food or share a cup of hot local sake.
Karaoke — If you’re looking to get loose there is nothing better than karaoke. I larger towns there are private booths, but if you in a small town meet some friends at the local spot, order a nomihodai (all you can drink), and get crazy.
