Japan Powder

For a growing number of people, Japan is not so much the land of cherry blossoms as it is the place where the snowflakes are big and fall in huge quantities. Japan is, in fact, one of the snowiest places on the planet, and fast becoming one of the must-ski destinations for serious powder hounds. And the snowfall in parts of the Shin’etsu area is perhaps the highest in the entire country.

There are good geographical and meteorological reasons for the thick blanket of snow that pounds down each winter (and remember, we’re talking about upwards of 19 meters of snow annually—62 feet or 748 inches, for the non-metric). In short, the area sees a winter monsoon. Cold air from Siberia passes over the Sea of Japan, gets loaded with moisture, then is pushed high by the front-range mountains on the edge of the region. It then falls on the east side of the mountains—Shin’etsu—in amazing amounts.

You’re likely to enjoy powder snow unlike anything you’ve experienced, even right on the slopes. For those who like to seek out the untracked and more adventurous, there is fantastic terrain almost everywhere in the beautiful mountains of the region. All that snow does bring risks, of course, with avalanches a constant concern, and a volcanic terrain that can be hard to navigate (meaning, lots of narrow valleys and ridges that can send you off in the wrong direction).

Fortunately, there are English-speaking guides in Shin’etsu who are there to get you out into that world-class powder and back safely and smiling. There are lots of ways to do this, too, from snowshoeing or hiking skis to full peak tours and (especially in spring) multi-day hut tours. Everyone from non-skiers to experts can enjoy the Shin’etsu backcountry.

Guides are also available for cultural experiences in this part of Snow Country, too, from trips to the world-famous Snow Monkeys, to trips to temples, shrines, saké brewing companies and much more. Lots to do, in one of the snowiest corners of the world!