07.03.2025

Experience Japan’s Winter Majesty Before the Season Ends

From Hakuba’s legendary powder slopes to Hokkaido’s enchanting Ice Village, Japan’s winter wonders await. Secure your last chance for a refined frosty retreat before the season melts away.

Words: Travel Editor

Horse riding at Tomamu.

Credit: Hoshino Resorts.

The discerning gentleman still has time to experience Japan's winter magnificence – from pristine powder slopes to illuminated frozen cascades – if you act quickly and secure your reservation now.

NORTHERN SANCTUARY

Despite a brief temperature surge in early March, winter's grip has returned to Japan with renewed vigor. In the archipelago's northern territories, snowfall is projected to continue well into April, possibly extending to May. For gentlemen residing in warmer climates who crave a sophisticated frost-laden retreat, Japan remains the premier destination.

POWDER PERFECTION

The legendary ski havens of Hakuba Valley on Honshu and across Hokkaido have reported exceptional snowfall this season. Hakuba has recorded an impressive 900cm of powder thus far, making this its most abundant season in over a decade. With premium resorts maintaining operations through April and potentially into May, there remains ample opportunity to command the slopes.

BEYOND THE SLOPES

For those who prefer alternative winter pursuits, Japan offers sophisticated experiences ranging from mesmerizing snow-draped landscapes to evening skies illuminated by traditional festival lights. However, certain winter spectacles will conclude earlier than others.

The frozen waterfalls at Oirase Gorge when illuminated at night.

Credit: Hoshino Resorts.

CURATED WINTER EXPERIENCES

Frozen Cascades of Oirase Gorge

(Available until March 24)

Experience nature's sculptural masterpiece at Oirase Gorge in Towada-Hachimantai National Park, Aomori. As temperatures descend below freezing, the rushing waters transform into a breathtaking gallery of suspended ice formations.

The exclusive Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel—the sole accommodation situated alongside this natural wonder—offers guests privileged access to these majestic formations through their "Oirase Mountain Stream Bus Tour" until March 24. During substantial snowfall, the panorama evokes the mythical realm of Narnia.

Enjoy the sight of snow falling among lighted floats at Aomoriya.

Credit: Hoshino Resorts.

Winter Nebuta Festival Experience

(Available until March 30)

At the refined Hoshino Resorts Aomoriya, an authentic hot spring ryokan in Aomori, gentlemen can experience the region's celebrated summer Nebuta festival reimagined for winter. Until March 30, the "Neburi Nagashi Lanterns" create a distinguished atmosphere around the outdoor thermal baths.

Guests can indulge in the exceptional juxtaposition of falling snow illuminated by vibrant festival lanterns while immersed in mineral-rich thermal waters, accompanied by the haunting melodies of traditional Nebuta flute music—a signature winter tradition at this exclusive property.

The Ice Village in Hoshino Resorts Tomamu will remain open until March 14, until later, depending on the weather conditions.

Credit: Hoshino Resorts.

Hokkaido's Ice Village and Premier Skiing

(Ice Village open until March 14, weather permitting)

Hokkaido stands as the ultimate powder sanctuary for discerning skiers. When Siberian Arctic winds traverse the Sea of Japan, they gather moisture before colliding with the imposing mountain ranges of Japan's northern islands, creating the legendary dry, lightweight snow known as "japow." Tomamu, in central Hokkaido, is particularly renowned for its exceptional powder quality.

The skiing season in Tomamu typically extends to April 1, with potential extensions depending on conditions. Hoshino Resorts Tomamu comprises two distinguished hotels—RISONARE Tomamu and Tomamu the Tower—and features 29 meticulously maintained trails across 1,000 hectares, accommodating all levels from novices to experts seeking challenging off-piste and backcountry experiences.

Non-skiers will find the 3.2-hectare Ice Village particularly compelling. While select features such as the ice bar, chapel, and exclusive two-person ice hotel typically conclude operations earlier in the season, other distinctive amenities including an ice ramen establishment, post office, skating rink, and central plaza remain accessible until March 14, weather conditions permitting.

For gentlemen planning an excursion, it is advisable to confirm current conditions with your chosen resort, as weather patterns may affect facility operations.

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Experience Japan’s Winter Majesty Before the Season Ends

From Hakuba’s legendary powder slopes to Hokkaido’s enchanting Ice Village, Japan’s winter wonders await. Secure your last chance for a refined frosty retreat before the season melts away.

Words: Travel Editor

Horse riding at Tomamu.

The discerning gentleman still has time to experience Japan's winter magnificence – from pristine powder slopes to illuminated frozen cascades – if you act quickly and secure your reservation now.

NORTHERN SANCTUARY

POWDER PERFECTION

BEYOND THE SLOPES

For those who prefer alternative winter pursuits, Japan offers sophisticated experiences ranging from mesmerizing snow-draped landscapes to evening skies illuminated by traditional festival lights. However, certain winter spectacles will conclude earlier than others.

The frozen waterfalls at Oirase Gorge when illuminated at night.

CURATED WINTER EXPERIENCES

Frozen Cascades of Oirase Gorge

(Available until March 24)

Experience nature's sculptural masterpiece at Oirase Gorge in Towada-Hachimantai National Park, Aomori. As temperatures descend below freezing, the rushing waters transform into a breathtaking gallery of suspended ice formations.

Enjoy the sight of snow falling among lighted floats at Aomoriya.

Winter Nebuta Festival Experience

(Available until March 30)

At the refined Hoshino Resorts Aomoriya, an authentic hot spring ryokan in Aomori, gentlemen can experience the region's celebrated summer Nebuta festival reimagined for winter. Until March 30, the "Neburi Nagashi Lanterns" create a distinguished atmosphere around the outdoor thermal baths.

Guests can indulge in the exceptional juxtaposition of falling snow illuminated by vibrant festival lanterns while immersed in mineral-rich thermal waters, accompanied by the haunting melodies of traditional Nebuta flute music—a signature winter tradition at this exclusive property.

The Ice Village in Hoshino Resorts Tomamu will remain open until March 14, until later, depending on the weather conditions.

Hokkaido's Ice Village and Premier Skiing

(Ice Village open until March 14, weather permitting)

For gentlemen planning an excursion, it is advisable to confirm current conditions with your chosen resort, as weather patterns may affect facility operations.

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Experience Japan’s Winter Majesty Before the Season Ends

From Hakuba’s legendary powder slopes to Hokkaido’s enchanting Ice Village, Japan’s winter wonders await. Secure your last chance for a refined frosty retreat before the season melts away.

Words: Travel Editor

Horse riding at Tomamu.

The discerning gentleman still has time to experience Japan's winter magnificence – from pristine powder slopes to illuminated frozen cascades – if you act quickly and secure your reservation now.

NORTHERN SANCTUARY

POWDER PERFECTION

BEYOND THE SLOPES

For those who prefer alternative winter pursuits, Japan offers sophisticated experiences ranging from mesmerizing snow-draped landscapes to evening skies illuminated by traditional festival lights. However, certain winter spectacles will conclude earlier than others.

The frozen waterfalls at Oirase Gorge when illuminated at night.

CURATED WINTER EXPERIENCES

Frozen Cascades of Oirase Gorge

(Available until March 24)

Experience nature's sculptural masterpiece at Oirase Gorge in Towada-Hachimantai National Park, Aomori. As temperatures descend below freezing, the rushing waters transform into a breathtaking gallery of suspended ice formations.

Enjoy the sight of snow falling among lighted floats at Aomoriya.

Winter Nebuta Festival Experience

(Available until March 30)

At the refined Hoshino Resorts Aomoriya, an authentic hot spring ryokan in Aomori, gentlemen can experience the region's celebrated summer Nebuta festival reimagined for winter. Until March 30, the "Neburi Nagashi Lanterns" create a distinguished atmosphere around the outdoor thermal baths.

Guests can indulge in the exceptional juxtaposition of falling snow illuminated by vibrant festival lanterns while immersed in mineral-rich thermal waters, accompanied by the haunting melodies of traditional Nebuta flute music—a signature winter tradition at this exclusive property.

The Ice Village in Hoshino Resorts Tomamu will remain open until March 14, until later, depending on the weather conditions.

Hokkaido's Ice Village and Premier Skiing

(Ice Village open until March 14, weather permitting)

For gentlemen planning an excursion, it is advisable to confirm current conditions with your chosen resort, as weather patterns may affect facility operations.

Related posts