Asia, Japan


White Dream in Japan

Asia Japan
Japan is a far east country that is a popular destination in Asia. The amount of tourists from overseas is increasing year by year, in spite of how far away Japan is. The reason Japan is so popular is due to our attractions like temples, traditional markets, culture and social media. Japan is also famous for its nature, especially in the winter, which is so beautiful and good for skiing or snowboarding. Traveling and riding through the scenery in Japan will make you excited! I have traveled all around Japan and I will introduce you to some of my favorite Japanese winter destinations.
Nozawaonsen
Nozawaonsen
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Nozawaonsen
Hokkaido is the northern island and its famous. It is by Niseko and Rusutsu. They get humid wind from the ocean and much snowfall; over 1000 cm a year which is much more than than Mt.Baker, WA or Whistler BC. The snow is super dry because of the cold temperatures. Surprisingly, you can get deep and dry powder snow almost every day! A point worthy of special mention is the cuisine! Hokkaido is known as “Kitchen in Japan” and it has many fresh foods, mostly seafood. You can enjoy Hokkaido the entire day; from morning to midnight!!
Close to Niseko
Close to Niseko
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Close to Niseko
Fresh "real" sushi
Fresh “real” sushi
Salmon Egg Roll Sushi
Salmon Egg Roll Sushi
Tohoku is placed in the north at a main island and the countryside of Japan. You can see classic Japanese culture and very unique nature. It is inconvenient to access; that’s why you can ski here without crowds. The ski slope is very long in distance; that’s the big attraction here. It takes only 3-4 hours by Shinkansen Express train to get here. In addition, Tohoku is famous for its hot springs called “Onsen.” You should see snow monsters and enjoy the hot springs with some alcohol!
Ice Monster at Zao Onsen
Ice Monster at Zao Onsen
Ice Monster at Zao Onsen
Ice Monster at Zao Onsen
Tohoku Classical Restaurant
Tohoku Classical Restaurant
Hitosaki Castle
Hitosaki Castle
Hiking to the Ice Monster
Hiking to the Ice Monster
Shinetsu has many big resorts. You can ride a variety slopes and trails here. It’s not too far from Tokyo metropolis, taking just 3 hours by car. There is a world famous city in this area called Nagano. The 1998 Olympic Games were held here. An attraction worthy of special mention is the historical building in Nagano . You can feel Japanese history while also feeling close to Tokyo.
Moon Forest
Moon Forest
Zenko-Ji Temple
Zenko-Ji Temple
Nojiri-Ko Lake
Nojiri-Ko Lake
We have so many great spots to visit in Japan! There will be lots of snow this winter season. I am a pro-skier in Japan and I can guide you or introduce you to many parts of Japan!
Sunset at Niigata
Sunset at Niigata
Contributed by Takaya Kawaguchi