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Japan's dramatic snow-capped peaks promise ample opportunity for adrenaline-pumping winter sports. Whether you venture to the ever-popular Niseko, set on Hokkaidō Island and famed for its almost 18m of snowfall each season, or to Hakuba, Madarao, Nozawa Onsen and Karuizawa on the main island of Honshu, the country's resorts offer well-maintained pistes and excellent ski schools. The other big draw is the après-ski scene, which often involves lively bars (with plenty of karaoke!) and top-notch restaurants serving local specialities. Many of the top ski hotels in Japan also have rejuvenating hot spring baths, saunas and soothing spa treatments for unwinding after big days out. There's also a good range of accommodation options to choose from, whether you like modern luxury, traditional ryokans or something at the cheaper end of the scale!
For Romantic Couples
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- Zaborin sits just above the Zabo natural spring in Niseko. A luxurious choice for romantic couples, the property's 15 villas offer minimalist decor and private onsens with stunning views. Feast on traditional cuisine at the elegant restaurant after active days. Exceptional.
- Hinode Hills is an indulgent mountain hotel with floor-to-ceiling windows framing marvellous views from cool rooms with crisp, grey-clad interiors. Dine in style at the Bistro at Hinode Hills after superb spa treatments and thrilling days out skiing, hiking or snowmobiling. For couples.
- Shishi Iwa House is a chic, ten-bedroom hotel with light, airy spaces, contemporary artwork and plenty of pale wood, Designed by renowned architect Shigeru Ban, it's a gorgeous minimalist pad for a weekend escape. Ski at the nearby Karuizawa Snow Park in the winter months. One for couples and architecture aficionados.
- Satoyama Jujo is a gorgeous, 13-room hotel with sleek, minimalist interiors in a stunning mountain setting. A design-led hideaway with a contemporary art collection, striking outdoor onsen and farm-to-table cuisine, this is a very romantic spot. Try cross-country skiing, or hone your skills on the slopes of Minamiuonuma and nearby Yuzawa between December and May.
- Snowball Chalet at Madarao Mountain is a cosy boutique lodge in the heart of Madarao village. Expect atmospheric, alpine-inspired interiors with Japanese accents, and romantic rooms for couples as well as larger spaces for families. Gather around the fire for après-ski drinks in the evening before heading out to dinner. Warm and welcoming.
For Families
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- Sierra Resort Hakuba is a swish property with contemporary rooms yielding forest views and beds topped with crisp white linens. Families should book the two bedroom Junior Suites. Unwind in spoiling onsens or a refreshing outdoor pool after enjoying easy access to the slopes. Set on 25 acres of grounds near Hakuba, this is a luxurious resort choice for active guests of all ages.
- Hoshino Resorts Risonare Yatsugatake is a family-friendly hotel surrounded by the forests and mountains of the Yamanashi prefecture. Airy rooms with pale wooden furnishings can accommodate couples or families. With everything from swimming pools and horse riding to wine tastings and skiing, this is an active holiday favourite.
- The Green Leaf Village sits at the base of Mount Annupuri. Families will adore larger rooms with space for extra beds, or gathering in the games room. Unwind in the spa and glamorous bar after days out on the slopes. Ski-in ski-out access is a highlight.
- Snow Peak Field Suite is made up of eight generous tents, perfect for the ultimate glamping experience in Hakuba. Families and groups are welcome, though it can also be a wonderfully romantic escape. The property offers cosy beds, minimalist interiors and gorgeous views of starlit skies. Cosy up by the fire pit or feast on Italian cuisine. For outdoorsy types eager to hike and ski.
- Hoshino Resorts Risonare Nasu is a beautiful, design-led escape surrounded by forests and farmland, close to the ski slopes of the Nasu Highlands. Kick back in swish, contemporary rooms and suites after days at the spa, soaking in the hot spring baths or feasting at the two restaurants. There are outdoorsy kids' activities galore. Fabulous.
For a Tranquil Ryokan
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- Miyamoso Takamiya is an historic ryokan in Zaō Onsen, offering an intimate, traditional experience. Unwind in one of the property's nine onsen baths, dine on delicious kaiseki cuisine and stroll to the slopes in winter or summer. Three cable cars zip guests up the mountain to superb Zao Onsen Ski Resort. One for romantic couples eager to combine tranquil onsen soaks with big ski days.
- Miyama Sansou resembles a small village, with buildings set between the forest and the paddy fields close to Kurokawa Onsen. Individual cottages with private onsens promise plenty of privacy, ideal for couples looking to unwind in a restful ryokan. Active types can hit the slopes at the nearby Kuju Forest Park Ski Area during the winter months.
- Mozumo is a tranquil, adults-only ryokan hidden in the forest outside Takayama. Set alongside the Mozumo River, the hotel's sliding doors reveal generous terraces with indulgent baths fed by natural hot spring water. Adventurers can zip down the snow-clad pistes of the Hida Takayama Municipal Ski Resort. An intimate romantic escape.
- Akan Tsuruga Besso Hinanoza is a beautiful ryokan on the banks of Lake Akan, near the Akankohan National Ski Area. Pick this place for the generous suites, which boast lake views, private hot spring baths and traditional seating areas. The multi-course kaiseki cuisine highlights the region's best ingredients. Very luxurious.
For Private Chalets or Apartments
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- Kasara Niseko Village Townhouse offers a hip take on the traditional Japanese townhouse, with multi-bedroom chalets promising a chic stay for groups or families. With a dedicated concierge service, ski storage and well-equipped kitchens, these are a brilliant choice for a private, upmarket stay.
- Snow Crystal Apartments are a short walk from the ski lifts in Niseko. Minimalist spaces with lots of glass, clean lines and polished wooden floors will appeal to well-heeled travellers, as will the excellent concierge team. Apartments have multiple bedrooms and smart kitchens.
- Chatrium Niseko is a chic hotel offering contemporary rooms, suites and apartments with mountain views. Michelin-starred Kamimura specialises in Japanese-French fusion cuisine, perfect for keen foodies to savour after days out on the slopes. Set in Upper Hirafu Village, this really is one of the top ski hotels in Japan.
- The Ridge Hotel & Apartments has a collection of modern rooms and self-catering apartments with up to four bedrooms in Hakuba. Expect spacious sitting rooms and well-equipped kitchens, as well as access to an onsite restaurant. Chic and contemporary — also brilliant for longer stays.
- Muse Niseko has inviting private studios and multi-bedroom apartments clad in monochrome tones, with striking modern art pieces. Take long soaks in free-standing tubs with expansive views, cook up a storm in the kitchen and savour time together as a couple or group. Just opposite Michelin-starred Kamimura.