Overseas visitors are often surprised by the relative lack of a lively après-ski scene in Japan. That has been changing at destinations that focus on the international market, but a vibrant communal nightlife has not traditionally been a major part of the Japanese ski experience.
Groups often keep to themselves or simply get an early night in preparation for the following day's snow conditions. If lively nightlife is important to you, it is probably best to focus on the larger and more internationally oriented destinations—or enjoy those things in the city before heading to the mountains.
Food & drink
What you will find in most traditional ski towns are Japanese restaurants, izakaya (Japanese pubs), and karaoke bars.
If you see an establishment with the word 'snack' written outside, it may be worth sending somebody in first to investigate. Some are hostess bars that can be surprisingly expensive and may include a substantial table charge simply for sitting down.
Izakaya, on the other hand, are usually lively, informal places to enjoy good food and a few drinks.
One of the things that so many people love about Japan is the food, and a ski holiday is no exception. Before, during, and after time on the snow, it is fun to explore local restaurants and cafés. Standard ski area food often includes curry rice and ramen, but every region has its own specialities and they are often well worth trying.
In recent years, many ski areas have also made efforts to improve and expand their food offerings, and menus have generally become more varied and adventurous.
Also, don't be surprised to see people drinking multiple cans of beer at lunchtime and then heading straight back out onto the slopes.
Onsen hot springs
Onsen hot springs are a feature of many ski towns in Japan, something reflected in the names of famous ski areas such as Nozawa Onsen in Nagano Prefecture and Zao Onsen in Yamagata Prefecture.
Onsen are a way of life in Japan, and soaking in a hot bath is an excellent way to unwind after a day on the snow. Better still is the experience of relaxing in a snow-surrounded rotenburo (outdoor bath) while the cold winter air drifts around you.
For many visitors, enjoying an onsen becomes one of the most memorable parts of a ski trip to Japan. If you plan to visit one, it is worth familiarising yourself with basic onsen etiquette beforehand.
The very famous onsen-loving monkeys that always seem to get a lot of publicity can be found at the Jigokudani Yaen Koen (Snow Monkey Park) in Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture, not far from Shiga Kogen. If you have ever searched online for winter images of Japan, there is a good chance you have already seen them.
Cultural experiences
For many visitors, skiing and snowboarding are only part of the attraction of coming to Japan. Just being here is exciting for a lot of people... even us long-timers!
Temples and shrines, traditional towns and villages, local food, festivals, railway journeys, hot springs, and countless other experiences can all become memorable parts of a winter trip.
Even after many years living in Japan, we still find new places to discover and reasons to explore.
While skiing and snowboarding may be the main focus of a winter trip, many visitors also take the opportunity to explore other parts of Japan.
