Top Winter Activities Spots in Japan

Grab a local guide to save some time getting around. The village can be a bit confusing. I really wish I had thought about this beforehand—it would have saved me some wandering time.

I recommend getting a multi-day lift pass if you plan to stay longer than two days. It’ll save you some yen and make getting around the slopes much easier. Just be sure to plan your days right.

I suggest getting your lift ticket online before you go. It saved me a ton of time in the morning rush. Trust me, those queues can be killer!

I recommend checking the weather app a day before your visit. I totally misunderstood conditions and it was a bit cloudy, but still super fun.

If you're renting equipment, opt for the rental shops closer to the base. They often have better prices and shorter wait times than the ones further out

I recommend getting your lift passes early in the morning. The lines can get pretty long around 9 AM, and you'll lose valuable slope time waiting.

Don't miss the on-site cafes; they have decent food at fair prices. I found a little hidden gem that served the best curry after a long day on the slopes.

I think having a late lunch at one of the on-mountain cafes is key. It's less crowded around 2 PM, and you can enjoy the views while eating without the rush of the lunchtime crowd.

Make sure to rent your gear at the rental shop a bit off the main hill. It’s usually cheaper plus they have a better selection. I learned this the hard way waiting in the busy line!

My advice is to check the weather a week in advance. I wasn't prepared for the wind chill one day and froze my fingers off, it was not fun! Dress in layers so you can adjust.

I think grabbing lunch at one of the local spots in Hirafu will save you some serious cash compared to the on-mountain cafes. Plus, you'll get a taste of real Japanese food!

I suggest renting your gear off-site instead of at the resort. Skis and boards can be way cheaper, plus you avoid those long lines in the morning.

I recommend downloading the Niseko app. It helped me with trail info and snow conditions but be careful with data roaming – get a SIM card if you can to avoid nasty charges!

Don’t miss the evening lights. The slopes are beautiful under the stars, and it’s a totally different vibe from the daytime, plus lines are shorter!

Bring your own snacks! Food can be pricey on the mountain. I packed some granola bars and it saved me a good amount during the day.