Looking for the best ski resort near Nagoya?
Winter might not be the first season people associate with Nagoya, but it should be.
Within just two to three hours of the city, you’ll find some of Japan’s best ski resorts, from family-friendly beginner slopes to world-class powder in the Japanese Alps.
Whether you’re planning your first day on the slopes or chasing fresh snow every weekend, these ski resorts are all easy to reach from Nagoya by car or public transportation, making them perfect day trips or overnight escapes.
Here are some of the best ski resorts near Nagoya to visit this winter.
Article Contents
Best for Beginners
Learn to Ski at Hirugano Kogen Ski Resort
⭐ Best for beginners
Traveling with children or trying skiing for the first time? Hirugano Kogen Ski Resort is one of the best beginner-friendly mountains near Nagoya.
Gentle slopes, dedicated children’s areas, and ski schools make it an ideal destination for families. The smaller scale also means shorter lift lines and a more relaxed experience. More experienced skiers may outgrow the terrain after a full day, making it better suited to beginners and families than advanced riders.
Many visitors combine a morning on the slopes with nearby hot springs before returning to Nagoya in the evening.
Highlights
- Perfect for beginners
- Family-oriented facilities
- Ski lessons available
- Relaxed atmosphere
- Limited advanced terrain
Access:
🚆 Public transport: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes-3 hours from Nagoya Station via JR to Mino-Ōta, then seasonal bus connections, or direct winter buses from Nagoya.
🚗 By car: Approximately 2 hours via the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway (Hirugano Smart IC).
12 Amazing Things to Do in Nagoya with Kids
Hirugano Kogen Ski Resort
Lift passes: 4900 JPY per day for adults, 3800 JPY for junior high school and high school students, and 3000 JPY for children elementary school age and younger.
Opening Hours: 8:30 – 16:30 on weekdays, 8:00 – 16:30 on weekends and holidays, open from approximately December 26th, 2026
Address: 4670-75 Takasucho Hirugano, Gujo, Gifu 501-5301
Access: Take the direct Gifu bus from Meitetsu Bus Center for 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Website | Google Maps
Spend a Relaxed Day at Washigatake Ski Resort
⭐ Best for families
Washigatake Ski Resort is another favorite among Nagoya residents thanks to its convenient location near the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway.
The resort has a welcoming atmosphere, making it ideal for beginners, families, and anyone learning to ski or snowboard. Wide groomed runs provide plenty of room to practice, while experienced riders can still enjoy steeper courses higher up the mountain. Keep in mind that advanced skiers looking for long, challenging runs may find the terrain a little limited compared to some of the larger neighboring resorts.
Equipment rental and English-friendly services make it an easy choice for international visitors.
Highlights
- Excellent beginner slopes
- Family-friendly facilities
- Convenient highway access
- Great rental options
- Best suited to beginners and intermediates
Access:
🚆 Public transport: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes-3 hours from Nagoya Station using JR trains to Mino-Ōta followed by a seasonal shuttle bus, or direct winter bus services.
🚗 By car: Approximately 1 hour and 45 mins-2 hours via the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway (Takasu IC), just a few minutes from the interchange.
Washigatake Ski Resort
Lift passes: 5500 JPY for adults, 3900 JPY for junior high school and high school students, and 2200 JPY for children elementary school age and younger
Opening Hours: 8:00 – 17:00, open from approximately November 21st, 2026
Address: 3250 Takasucho Owashi, Gujo, Gifu 501-5303
Access: Take a direct bus from JR Nagoya Station Taiko-dori for 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Website | Google Maps
Best For Intermediate & Advanced
Ski One of Western Japan’s Biggest Resorts at Takasu Snow Park
⭐ Best overall
If you’re looking for long runs, reliable snowfall, and modern facilities, Takasu Snow Park is one of the best places to start. Located in Gifu Prefecture, it’s one of the region’s largest ski resorts and is directly connected to neighboring Dynaland, giving visitors access to an enormous combined ski area.
The resort offers wide beginner slopes, exciting tree-lined intermediate courses, and advanced runs that stay in excellent condition throughout the season. Snowboarders will also appreciate the terrain parks and halfpipe.
Because of its size and easy access from Nagoya, Takasu Snow Park is especially popular for day trips and weekend breaks, though be aware that weekends and public holidays can get especially crowded.
Highlights
- Around 2 hours from Nagoya by car
- Connected lift pass with Dynaland
- Excellent terrain for all skill levels
- Large restaurants and rental facilities
- Can be busy during peak weekends and holidays
Access:
🚆 Public transport: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes-3 hours from Nagoya Station via the JR Tokaido Line to Gifu, JR Takayama Line to Mino-Ōta, then seasonal bus (or direct winter highway bus from Nagoya on select dates).
🚗 By car: Approximately 2 hours via the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway (Takasu IC).
Best Things to Do in Nagoya in Winter
Takasu Snow Park
Lift passes: joint passes for Dynaland available for 6000 JPY per day for adults, 2400 JPY per day for kids age 4 to elementary school age
Opening Hours: 8:00 – 16:30 on weekdays, 7:30 – 16:30 on weekends and holidays; open from around December 7th, 2026
Address: 3086ｰ1 Takasucho Nishibora, Gujo, Gifu 501-5305
Access: 41-minute walk from Michi-no-eki Dainichidake Roadside Station
Website | Google Maps
Enjoy Night Skiing at Dynaland
⭐ Best night skiing
Sharing the same mountain as Takasu Snow Park, Dynaland is famous for some of Japan’s best night skiing.
Its floodlit slopes stay open well into the evening, allowing visitors to enjoy fresh snow after sunset. Combined with the resort, skiers can explore dozens of different courses throughout the day before finishing with illuminated evening runs.
The resort is particularly popular among younger visitors and groups looking for an energetic winter atmosphere. If you prefer quiet slopes or a more relaxed mountain experience, however, the lively atmosphere may not be the best fit, especially during evening sessions.
Highlights
- Extensive night skiing
- Connected to Takasu Snow Park
- Snow parks for freestyle riders
- Easy day trip from Nagoya
- Often busiest in the evenings and on weekends
Access:
🚆 Public transport: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes-3 hours from Nagoya Station via JR to Gifu/Mino-Ōta followed by a seasonal shuttle bus, or direct winter bus services from Nagoya.
🚗 By car: Approximately 2 hours via the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway (Hirugano Smart IC or Takasu IC).
Dynaland
Lift passes: joint passes for Takasu Snow Park are available for 6000 JPY per day for adults, 2400 JPY per day for kids aged 4 to elementary school age; night skiing only is 3500 JPY for adults and 1400 JPY for children.
Opening Hours: 8:00 – 23:00 on weekdays, 6:00 – 23:00 on weekends and holidays; open from around December 6th, 2026
Address: 3035-2 Takasucho Nishibora, Gujo, Gifu 501-5305
Access: Take the resort’s free shuttle bus from the Dainichidake bus stop for 15 minutes.
Website | Google Maps
Experience Beautiful Mountain Views at Meiho Ski Resort
⭐ Best runs
Meiho Ski Resort combines scenic mountain landscapes with some of the longest continuous runs in the area.
Its signature course stretches for several kilometers, allowing skiers to enjoy uninterrupted cruising with stunning views across the Japanese Alps on clear winter days.
The snow quality is consistently excellent thanks to the resort’s higher elevation, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it feel less crowded than some larger resorts. It’s worth mentioning that there are fewer lifts and facilities, so visitors looking for extensive nightlife or entertainment may prefer Takasu or Dynaland.
Highlights
- Long cruising runs
- Excellent snow conditions
- Beautiful panoramic scenery
- Popular with intermediate skiers
- Smaller resort facilities than some competitors
Access:
🚆 Public transport: Approximately 3 hours from Nagoya Station via the JR Takayama Line to Gujō-Hachiman Station, then a resort shuttle bus.
🚗 By car: Approximately 2 hours via the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway (Gujō-Hachiman IC)
The First-Timer’s Guide to Nagoya
Meiho Ski Resort
Lift passes: 5300 JPY for adults on weekdays, 6000 JPY on weekends, 4300 JPY for junior high school and high school students on weekdays, 5000 JPY on weekends, and 2500 JPY for children elementary school age and younger all days of the week.
Opening Hours: 8:00 – 16:30 on weekdays, 7:30 – 16:30 on weekends and holidays, open from approximately December 13th, 2026
Address: 〒501-4304 Gifu, Gujo, 明宝奥住水沢上３４４７−１
Access: Take a direct bus from Nagoya or shuttle bus from Takayama, Gujo Hachiman, and Gero Onsen (available to guests only)
Website | Google Maps
Best Powder
Discover Dry Powder at Ontake 2240
⭐ Best powder
Located on the slopes of Mount Ontake, Ontake 2240 is known for its high altitude and consistently dry powder snow.
The resort attracts experienced skiers looking for quieter slopes and excellent snow conditions throughout the winter. Because it sits higher than many nearby resorts, the ski season often lasts well into spring.
The surrounding mountain scenery is equally impressive, making it one of the most picturesque winter destinations accessible from Nagoya. If you’re relying on public transportation, however, just know that its higher elevation and more remote location mean getting there takes a little more planning.
Highlights
- High-altitude powder snow
- Long ski season
- Less crowded slopes
- Spectacular alpine scenery
- Less convenient to access than Gifu resorts
Access:
🚆 Public transport: Approximately 3-3.5 hours from Nagoya Station via the JR Limited Express Shinano to Kiso-Fukushima Station, followed by a local bus or taxi.
🚗 By car: Approximately 2 hours and 30 mins via the Chuo Expressway.
Ontake 2240
Lift passes: 5500 JPY per day for adults, 4500 JPY for high school students, and 1500 JPY for children middle school age and younger.
Opening Hours: 8:00 – 16:00, open from approximately December 12th-13th, 2026
Address: 3162番, Otaki, Kiso District, Nagano 397-0201
Access: Take a shuttle bus from JR Kiso-Fukushima Station.
Website (Japanese only) | Google Maps
Best Weekend Getaway
Explore the Japanese Alps at Mt. Norikura Snow Resort
⭐ Best scenery
For visitors looking to combine skiing with beautiful nature, Mt. Norikura Snow Resort offers a fantastic balance.
Located in the Northern Japanese Alps, the resort features wide open pistes surrounded by snow-covered forests and dramatic mountain peaks. The relaxed pace makes it a great alternative to busier commercial resorts.
Nearby hot springs make it especially rewarding as an overnight winter getaway, though the distance is less than ideal for a day trip.
Highlights
- Scenic alpine setting
- Relaxed atmosphere
- Excellent snow quality
- Great onsen nearby
- Better for overnight stays than day trips
Access:
🚆 Public transport: Approximately 4 hours from Nagoya Station via the JR Limited Express Shinano to Matsumoto Station, Matsumoto Dentetsu Railway to Shin-Shimashima, then Alpico Bus to the resort.
🚗 By car: Approximately 3 hours via the Chuo Expressway and Route 158.
Nabana no Sato Nagoya’s Best Winter Illuminations
Mt. Norikura Snow Resort
Lift passes: 5500 JPY per day for adults, free for kids 18 and younger with valid ID
Opening Hours: 8:45 – 16:30; open from December 12th, 2026
Address: 4294-3 Azumi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-1520
Access: 1-minute walk from the N-31 Ski Resort bus stop on the Norikura Kogen Line
Website (Japanese only) | Google Maps
Make a Weekend Trip to Hakuba Valley
⭐ Best weekend trip
If you have a little more time, Hakuba Valley deserves a place on every skier’s bucket list.
Although it’s farther from Nagoya than the other resorts on this list, the journey is rewarded with one of Japan’s most famous ski destinations. Home to multiple interconnected resorts and host of events during the 1998 Winter Olympics, Hakuba offers world-class powder, varied terrain, and lively après-ski.
The trade-off? Longer travel times and more costly accommodations.
Splurging for a weekend here is perfect for serious skiers or anyone wanting to experience one of Japan’s premier winter destinations.
Highlights
- Multiple interconnected resorts
- World-famous powder snow
- Excellent restaurants and nightlife
- Ideal for a weekend getaway
- Longer journey and typically higher costs
Access:
🚆 Public transport: Approximately 3.5-4.5 hours from Nagoya Station via the JR Limited Express Shinano to Matsumoto Station, then the JR Ōito Line or express bus to Hakuba.
🚗 By car: Approximately 3.5-4 hours via the Chuo Expressway and Nagano Expressway.
Hakuba Valley (Multiple Locations)
Lift passes: all-access pass from 11,100 JPY per day for adults, 6400 JPY for children
Opening Hours: 8:00 – 16:30 or 17:00 depending on resort; open from approximately December 1st to 5th, 2026
Access: Take the Alpico Group express bus from Nagano Station to the Hakuba Valley (1 hour, 15 minutes)
Website | Google Maps
Which Ski Resort Near Nagoya Is Right for You?
| Resort | Best For | From Nagoya | Stay |
| Takasu | Everyone | 2h | Day |
| Dynaland | Night skiing | 2h | Day |
| Washigatake | Families | 2h | Day |
| Meiho | Intermediate | 2h | Day |
| Hirugano | Beginners | 2h | Day |
| Ontake | Powder | 2.5h | Overnight |
| Norikura | Nature | 3h | Overnight |
| Hakuba | Weekend | 4h | Weekend |
Bonus: Make the Most of Your Winter Trip to Nagoya With These Experiences
After a day carving through fresh powder, there’s nothing better than returning to Nagoya for incredible local food, warm drinks, and unique cultural experiences.
Winter is one of the best seasons to discover the city’s culinary side. Join our Flavors of Nagoya Local Food Tour to sample regional specialties like miso katsu, tebasaki chicken wings, and kishimen noodles while learning about the city’s unique food culture.
If you’d like to experience Nagoya’s famous brewing traditions, the Nagoya Sake Tasting Tour offers the perfect way to warm up while discovering locally produced sake and the history behind Japan’s national drink.
For a more casual afternoon, the Street Food Walking Tour of Osu lets you explore one of Nagoya’s most vibrant shopping districts while sampling seasonal snacks, local favorites, and hidden gems.
Or, if you’d rather bring Nagoya’s flavors home, join the Nagoya Local Food Cooking Experience, where you’ll learn to prepare beloved regional dishes with guidance from a local instructor.
Want a fully personalized itinerary? Our Full Day Nagoya Private Tour can be tailored around your interests, whether that’s winter illuminations, local neighborhoods, shopping, history, or food.
Whether you’re hitting the slopes in Gifu or exploring the city between ski trips, these experiences make winter one of the very best times to visit Nagoya.
Ski Resorts From Nagoya FAQ
Which ski resort is closest to Nagoya?
The closest major ski resorts to Nagoya are Washigatake Ski Resort, Takasu Snow Park, Dynaland, and Hirugano Kogen Ski Resort, all of which can be reached in around two hours by car from Nagoya. Washigatake is one of the most convenient thanks to its location just off the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway, making it a popular choice for day trips from Nagoya.
Can I ski near Nagoya as a beginner?
Absolutely. Several ski resorts near Nagoya are ideal for first-time skiers and snowboarders. Hirugano Kogen Ski Resort is one of the best options thanks to its gentle slopes, ski schools, and family-friendly atmosphere. Washigatake Ski Resort and Takasu Snow Park also offer beginner runs, rental equipment, and lessons, making it easy to enjoy your first day on the snow.
Do I need a car to visit the ski resorts from Nagoya?
No. Many of the best ski resorts near Nagoya can be reached by public transportation using JR trains and seasonal shuttle buses. During winter, some resorts also offer direct buses from Nagoya, making them convenient even if you don’t plan to drive. That said, renting a car provides more flexibility and is often the fastest way to reach the slopes.
Can I rent ski and snowboard equipment?
Yes. Every ski resort featured in this guide offers rental equipment, including skis, snowboards, boots, helmets, and winter clothing. Resorts such as Washigatake, Takasu Snow Park, and Dynaland have large rental centers, so you can travel from Nagoya without bringing your own gear.
Can I visit these ski resorts as a day trip from Nagoya?
Yes. Most of the ski resorts in Gifu Prefecture, including Takasu Snow Park, Dynaland, Washigatake Ski Resort, Meiho Ski Resort, and Hirugano Kogen Ski Resort, are perfect for day trips from Nagoya. Resorts farther away, such as Mt. Norikura Snow Resort, Ontake 2240, and Hakuba Valley, are better suited to overnight or weekend getaways.
When is the best time to ski near Nagoya?
The ski season usually runs from late December until late March, although higher-altitude resorts such as Ontake 2240 often stay open into April. For the best snow conditions, visit between January and late February, when snowfall is typically at its deepest and powder conditions are at their best.
This post was last updated in September 2026.
Although we strive to provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information possible, please note that changes may occur nonetheless. We recommend you confirm any relevant information such as event cancelations or changes, opening hours, or possible restrictions using a direct source. Please keep in mind that these sources might be in Japanese only.
Did you enjoy this article?
Make sure to also check out our other posts about Nagoya, and trust us if we say Nagoya is not boring!
Be sure to follow us on Facebook for regular updates on Nagoya, and see our Instagram for pictures and stories about the city!
Tag us 📲
Planning on hitting the slopes in Japan this winter? If so, please share your favorite skiing destinations and tag us on social media with #nagoyaisnotboring
