Japan's ski season generally starts around December and lasts until April, with the peak and best snow conditions found from mid January through February. Snow is abundant and temperatures moderate, barely dropping below -10 degrees.
While skiers still outnumber snowboarders on most Japanese ski slopes, snowboarding also enjoys a big popularity, and the number of resorts welcoming snowboarders and providing special snowboarding facilities, such as half pipes, has been increasing. Many resorts also welcome other types of snow sports, such as snow bikes and snow scooters.
The typical cost of a one-day pass for large ski areas is around 4000 to 5000 yen. Many resorts also offer half day, multi-day, nighter and season passes. Furthermore, ski holiday packages, which include transportation, lift pass and accommodation, are available at competitive rates through travel agencies.
Renting ski or snowboard equipment is possible at virtually every ski resort across Japan. Snow bikes, snow scooters and other equipment is also available to rent at some resorts. Typical prices are around 3000 to 5000 yen per day for a complete set (skis, boots and poles, or snowboard, boots and bindings). Similar prices apply to a one day rental of ski wear which usually includes a jacket, pants, gloves and goggles.
Many ski areas in Japan double function as hot spring resorts, leading to the particular Japanese way of enjoying skiing and snowboarding in combination with relaxation in a hot spring after a day on the slopes.
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Guide to Skiing in Japan:
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