Nagano, the legendary host of the 1998 Winter Olympics, is a world-class destination for powder enthusiasts seeking the finest “JAPOW” (Japan Powder). From deep forests and sacred hot springs to Olympic-grade runs, here is the complete guide to all 20 resorts in Nagano for your 2026 winter adventure.
Contents
- 🏆 Top 5 Nagano Ski Resorts (2026 Rankings)
- 🏔️ Full Resort Selection (6–20)
- 6. Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort
- 7. Shiga Kogen Mountain Resort
- 8. Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort
- 9. Sugadaira Kogen Snow Resort
- 10. Kurumayama Kogen SKYPARK
- 11. Yokoteyama & Shibutoge (Shiga Kogen)
- 12. Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort
- 13. Togari Onsen Ski Resort
- 14. Fujimi Panorama Resort
- 15. Saku Ski Garden Parada
- 16. Hakuba Norikura Onsen Ski Resort
- 17. Shirakabako Royal Hill
- 18. Mt. NORIKURA Snow Resort
- 19. X-JAM Takafuji & Yomase Onsen
- 20. Komaruyama Ski Resort
- ✨ Pro Travel Tips & Safety
- 💡 Essential Travel Hacks for Nagano
🏆 Top 5 Nagano Ski Resorts (2026 Rankings)
1. Able Hakuba Goryu & Hakuba47
Currently the #1 choice for international travelers. A single lift pass gives you access to both resorts: Hakuba47’s world-class terrain park and Goryu’s wide, scenic slopes. The base center “Escal Plaza” is famous for its 24-hour facilities and international dining options. “The ability to switch between two distinct mountains on one pass ensures you’ll never get bored.”
Hakuba Goryu Address 22184-10 Kamishiro, Hakuba, Kitaazumi District, Nagano
Hakuba47 Address 24196-47 Kamishiro, Hakuba Village, Kitaazumi District, Nagano
Access 10-15 mins by shuttle bus from JR Hakuba or Kamishiro Station. Taxi: ~10 mins from Hakuba Station (approx. ¥2,500 – ¥3,500).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day: ¥7,500 – ¥8,700
Hakuba Goryu Official Website https://www.hakubaescal.com/winter-en/
Hakuba47 Official Website https://www.hakuba47.co.jp/winter/en/
2. Ryuoo Ski Park
Famous for its massive ropeway that transports you to 1,770m. The highlight is the “Kiotoshi Course,” a 36-degree unpisted powder challenge. At the summit, the “SORA terrace” offers a stunning “Unkai” (Sea of Clouds). “Even for non-skiers, the panoramic view from the summit cafe is worth the trip alone.”
Address 11700 Yomase, Yamanouchi, Shimotakai District, Nagano
Access 20 mins by free shuttle from Yudanaka Station. Taxi: ~15 mins from Yudanaka (approx. ¥3,500 – ¥4,500).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day: ¥5,200 – ¥6,500
Official Website https://ryuoo.com/winter/
3. Madarao Mountain Resort
A tree-skiing paradise known as the home of “Madapow.” Madarao is one of the few resorts in Japan that officially encourages off-piste tree runs. “The natural maze-like terrain is a dream for powder hounds looking for deep, fresh tracks.”
Address Madarao Kogen, Iiyama, Nagano
Access 30 mins by express bus from JR Iiyama Station. Taxi: ~25 mins from Iiyama Station (approx. ¥6,000 – ¥7,500).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day: ¥5,500 – ¥8,500
Official Website https://www.madarao.jp/en
4. Tsugaike Mountain Resort
The ultimate “beginner’s paradise” in the Hakuba Valley. The “Kane-no-naru-oka” slope is over 1,200m wide. For experts, the “TSUGA POW” area at the top offers premium lift-accessible powder. “Perfect for mixed-ability groups where everyone from beginners to pros can have a great day.”
Address 12840-1 Chikuniotsu, Otari, Kitaazumi District, Nagano
Access 20 mins by shuttle bus from JR Hakuba Station. Taxi: ~20 mins (approx. ¥5,000 – ¥6,000).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day: ¥5,900 – ¥8,200
Official Website https://www.tsugaike.gr.jp/
5. Hakuba Happo-One Snow Resort
The crown jewel of the 1998 Olympics. With a vertical drop of over 1,000m and iconic steep runs, it is a mecca for serious skiers. “The vibrant Après-ski scene in the village makes it the social heart of the Hakuba Valley.”
Address Hokujo, Hakuba, Kitaazumi District, Nagano
Access 5 mins by shuttle from Hakuba Station; 75 mins by express bus from Nagano Station. Taxi: ~5 mins (approx. ¥1,500 – ¥2,000).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day: ¥7,200 – ¥8,700
Official Website https://www.happo-one.jp/en/
🏔️ Full Resort Selection (6–20)
6. Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort
A perfect blend of world-class terrain and a traditional village. Experience the 13 free public “Soto-yu” hot springs after a day on the slopes. “The traditional atmosphere combined with steep, long runs creates a unique cultural experience.”
Address 7653 Toyosato, Nozawa Onsen Village, Shimotakai District, Nagano
Access 25 mins by “Nozawa Onsen Liner” bus from JR Iiyama Station. Taxi: ~25 mins (approx. ¥6,000 – ¥7,500).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day: ¥6,000 – ¥6,800
Official Website https://en.nozawaski.com/
7. Shiga Kogen Mountain Resort
Japan’s largest interconnected ski area. With 18 resorts linked by lifts and buses, you can “ski safari” across mountains for days. “The scale of this resort is unparalleled in Japan, similar to major European interconnected areas.”
Address 7148-203 Hirao, Yamanouchi-machi, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano
Access 70-90 mins by express bus from JR Nagano Station. Taxi: ~70 mins from Nagano Station (approx. ¥18,000 – ¥22,000).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day (All Area): ¥6,500 – ¥7,500
Official Website https://www.shigakogen-ski.or.jp/english/index.php
8. Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort
The best choice for a quick trip from Tokyo. Located right next to a massive outlet mall, offering high-end dining and luxury shopping. “Ideal for families who want to combine skiing with premium shopping and dining.”
Address Karuizawa, Kitasaku District, Nagano
Access 10 mins walk from JR Karuizawa Station (Shinkansen). Taxi: ~3 mins (under ¥1,000).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day: ¥7,500 – ¥8,500
Official Website https://www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/karuizawa/winter/
9. Sugadaira Kogen Snow Resort
Known as the “Davos of Japan.” The high altitude ensures dry, crisp snow. The wide, flat slopes are perfect for carving and intermediate practice. “A great place to rack up vertical mileage without the intense crowds of the larger resorts.”
Address 1223-146 Sugadaira Kogen, Ueda City, Nagano
Access 55 mins by bus from JR Ueda Station. Taxi: ~50 mins (approx. ¥12,000 – ¥15,000).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day: ¥5,400 – ¥6,300
Official Website https://sugadaira-snowresort.com/
10. Kurumayama Kogen SKYPARK
Located on an independent peak, it offers a 360-degree panorama of the Japanese Alps. On clear days, you can see Mt. Fuji while you ski. “Skiing with a clear view of Mt. Fuji is an unforgettable bucket-list experience.”
Address 3413 Kitayama, Chino-shi, Kurumayama, Nagano
Access 60 mins by bus from JR Chino Station. Taxi: ~45 mins (approx. ¥10,000 – ¥13,000).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day: ¥5,200 – ¥6,000
Official Website https://www.kurumayama.com/english/
11. Yokoteyama & Shibutoge (Shiga Kogen)
Japan’s highest ski area at 2,307m. Famous for its “Snow Monsters” (frozen trees) and the highest bakery in the country. “Skiing through the eerie, beautiful frozen forest feels like being on another planet.”
Address 7148 Hirao, Yamanouchi-machi, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano
Access Express bus from Nagano Station to Shiga Kogen, then shuttle bus. Taxi: ~40 mins from Yudanaka (approx. ¥10,000 – ¥12,000).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day: ¥5,200 – ¥6,000
Official Website https://yokoteyama2307.com/
12. Hakuba Cortina Ski Resort
The legendary powder bowl of Hakuba. The bowl-shaped terrain means all runs lead back to the iconic Green Plaza Hotel. “Deep powder and steep tree runs—this is the spiritual home for JAPOW addicts.”
Address 12860-1, Chikuni, Kitaazumi Gun Otari Mura, Nagano
Access 20 mins by free shuttle from JR Hakuba Station (Reservation required). Taxi: ~20 mins (approx. ¥6,000 – ¥7,500).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day: ¥5,000 – ¥6,000
Official Website https://www.hgp.co.jp/cortina/ski/
13. Togari Onsen Ski Resort
Experience skiing with a view of traditional Japanese farmhouses and the Chikuma River. Famous for being the first to allow “Snow Bikes.” “A peaceful, authentic Japanese experience away from the commercialized crowds.”
Address 6356-2 Toyoda, Iiyama, Nagano
Access 5 mins by shuttle from JR Togari-Nozawaonsen Station. Taxi: ~5 mins (approx. ¥1,000 – ¥1,500).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day: ¥4,500 – ¥5,000
Official Website https://togari.jp/winter/en/
14. Fujimi Panorama Resort
Only 7 minutes from the highway, making it the most efficient day trip from Tokyo. Features a 3,000m long run from the gondola summit. “Efficient and scenic—the perfect addition to a Tokyo-based itinerary.”
Address 6666-703 Fujimi, Nagano
Access 10 mins by free shuttle from JR Fujimi Station. Taxi: ~10 mins (approx. ¥2,000 – ¥2,500).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day: ¥5,000 – ¥5,800
Official Website https://www.fujimipanorama.com/snow/
15. Saku Ski Garden Parada
The world’s only ski resort directly connected to a highway parking area. No snow-road driving required, perfect for rental car users. “Zero-stress access for those nervous about driving on icy mountain roads.”
Address 2066-1 Kamihirao, Saku, Nagano
Access Directly connected to Saku-Taira PA on the Joshin-etsu Expressway. Taxi: ~10 mins from Saku-Taira Station (approx. ¥2,500 – ¥3,500).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day: ¥4,500 – ¥5,200
Official Website https://www.saku-parada.jp/
16. Hakuba Norikura Onsen Ski Resort
A quiet gem in the Hakuba Valley. Because it’s less crowded, you can often find “untracked” powder long after other resorts are skied out. “A hidden sanctuary where you can enjoy deep powder in relative silence.”
Address 1285-1, Hakubanorikurakougen, Chikuni, Kitaazumi Gun Otari Mura, Nagano
Access 30 mins by shuttle from JR Hakuba Station. Taxi: ~25 mins (approx. ¥6,000 – ¥7,500).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day: ¥5,000 – ¥5,500
Official Website https://www.hakunori.com/en/
17. Shirakabako Royal Hill
Overlooking the frozen Lake Shirakaba. Renowned for its night skiing quality, as they re-groom the slopes in the late afternoon. “Freshly groomed corduroy under the lights—the best night skiing experience in Nagano.”
Address 3419-1, Sirakabako, Kitayama, Chino Shi, Nagano
Access 50 mins by bus from JR Chino Station. Taxi: ~40 mins (approx. ¥10,000 – ¥12,000).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day: ¥4,800 – ¥5,500
Official Website https://royalhill.co.jp/english/
18. Mt. NORIKURA Snow Resort
Located at the base of Mt. Norikura, featuring 100% natural snow and milky-white volcanic Onsens. A truly soulful mountain experience. “The combination of natural silence and therapeutic hot springs is pure magic.”
Address 4294-3, Azumi, Matsumoto Shi, Nagano
Access 100 mins by bus from JR Matsumoto Station. Taxi: ~70 mins (approx. ¥15,000 – ¥18,000).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day: ¥4,500 – ¥5,000
Official Website https://www.brnorikura.jp/
19. X-JAM Takafuji & Yomase Onsen
X-JAM is a freestyle park mecca with 47 items. Yomase Onsen is famous for its perfectly groomed, high-speed carving runs. “Carve down wide-open slopes with a stunning view of the valley below.”
Address 12713-94, Kitasigakougen, Shimotakai Gun Yamanochi Machi, Nagano
Access Taxi or shuttle from Yudanaka Station. Taxi: ~20 mins (approx. ¥4,500 – ¥5,500).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day (Joint): ¥5,000 – ¥5,500
Official Website https://x-jam.jp/
20. Komaruyama Ski Resort
The north-facing slopes ensure the snow stays cold and grippy all day. A compact, safe layout ideal for families and small groups. “A stress-free resort where you won’t lose your group, allowing you to focus on your skiing.”
Snow Park is designed for safe progression. The community vibe here is incredibly welcoming to international riders. “A safe and social terrain park where freestyle culture is alive and well.”
Address 11494, Yomase, Shimotakai Gun Yamanochi Machi, Nagano
Access 15 mins by free shuttle from Yudanaka Station. Taxi: ~15 mins (approx. ¥3,500 – ¥4,500).
Lift Pass (Est.) 1-Day: ¥4,000 – ¥4,800
Official Website https://www.komaruyama.jp/komaruyama/
✨ Pro Travel Tips & Safety
🍽️ Avoid “Dinner Orphaning”: Restaurants in Hakuba and Nozawa book out months in advance. Make online reservations as soon as your flights are booked.
💴 Cash is King: While major resorts take cards, local Onsens and small eateries are often cash only. Keep small bills and coins ready.
🏥 English-Speaking Emergency Hospitals
- Hakuba: Kamishiro Clinic (0261-75-4111)
- Shiga/Nozawa: Hokushin General Hospital (0269-22-2151)
- Karuizawa/Saku: Saku Medical Center (0267-62-8181)
💡 Essential Travel Hacks for Nagano
🎿 Pre-book Rentals: Large boot sizes and high-end gear sell out fast. Book online to avoid being stuck with old equipment.
🚗 Road Realities: Snowy mountain roads are no joke. Unless you are an expert in winter driving with 4WD, stick to shuttle buses and private taxis.
🔋 Phone Battery Warning: Sub-zero temperatures drain batteries instantly. Don’t lose your maps or contact list on the mountain; carry a reliable power bank.
- Recommended Model (Amazon Japan): Anker Mobile Battery
- Amazon Japan Guide for Tourists: How to order & deliver to hotels
Tip: You can order on Amazon and have it delivered to your hotel front desk (confirm with hotel first).
