10-Day Japan Ski Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo & Travel to Niigata

Morning: Arrive in Tokyo and transfer by train or bus to Niigata. Check into your accommodation and get settled.

Afternoon: Explore Niigata city highlights such as the Riverine Townscape and Northern Culture Museum. Prepare for your ski adventure ahead.

Evening: Enjoy local cuisine at a nearby restaurant and rest up for the upcoming ski days.

Day 2: Skiing at Myoko Kogen

Morning: Travel to Myoko Kogen Ski Area and rent equipment. Begin your first day of skiing on beginner and intermediate slopes.

Afternoon: Continue skiing, exploring different runs and enjoying scenic mountain views.

Evening: Relax in a local onsen (hot spring) and dinner at a mountain-side restaurant.

Day 3: Skiing & Night Skiing at Myoko Kogen

Morning: Full day on the slopes at Akakura Onsen and Myoko Suginohara.

Afternoon: Take a break with some après-ski activities, try local snacks and hot beverages.

Evening: Experience night skiing, then unwind in your accommodation.

Day 4: Travel to Hakuba Valley

Morning: Depart for Hakuba Valley, home to multiple ski resorts. Check into your hotel.

Afternoon: Explore the area, visit Hakuba Olympic Museum, and familiarize yourself with the ski passes.

Evening: Dinner at a traditional izakaya, enjoying regional dishes.

Day 5: Skiing at Hakuba Happo-One

Morning: Hit the slopes at Happo-One, known for its extensive runs and stunning mountain views.

Afternoon: Continue skiing or try cross-country trails nearby.

Evening: Relax in your hotel and enjoy local hot springs.

Day 6: Skiing & Snowboarding in Hakuba

Morning: Explore other resorts like Tsugaike Kogen and Goryu for variety.

Afternoon: Participate in ski or snowboard lessons if desired, or just enjoy the terrain.

Evening: Experience the vibrant après-ski scene with local cuisine.

Day 7: Travel to Nozawa Onsen

Morning: Journey to Nozawa Onsen, famous for its hot springs and ski slopes.

Afternoon: Visit the Nozawa Onsen Village and explore traditional shops.

Evening: Soak in an onsen and dine in a ryokan for authentic Japanese experience.

Day 8: Skiing at Nozawa Onsen

Morning & Afternoon: Spend the day skiing or snowboarding on the extensive slopes at Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort.

Evening: Relax in the hot springs after a day on the mountain, and enjoy regional cuisine.

Day 9: Return to Tokyo

Morning: Travel back to Tokyo for your final night. Check into your hotel.

Afternoon: Visit iconic sights such as Shibuya Crossing or Asakusa.

Evening: Enjoy your last dinner in Japan at a sushi restaurant or izakaya.

Day 10: Departure

Morning: Pack up and transfer to the airport for departure.

Afternoon: Fly home with incredible skiing memories!

Time and Cost Estimates

• Tokyo Transit & Entry: 4 hours, $50
• Transport to Niigata: 2 hours, $30
• Skiing at Myoko Kogen (per day): 6 hours, $80 (including lift pass & rental)
• Transport to Hakuba: 3 hours, $40
• Skiing at Hakuba (per day): 6 hours, $80
• Transport to Nozawa Onsen: 2.5 hours, $35
• Skiing at Nozawa Onsen: 6 hours, $80
• Accommodation & Meals: Approx. $150 per day
• Flights & Internal Travel Total: approx. $500
• Overall Estimated Cost: $1500 - $2000

Tips

If you wish to extend your trip, consider adding extra days at each ski resort for more leisurely skiing and local exploration. To reduce costs, focus on fewer resorts or opt for budget accommodations and transportation options within Japan.