8 Peaks Ski Resort: Fair Weather Skiing Paradise ‒With Fresh Snow Guaranteed
The 8 Peaks Ski Resort stands out as a beacon of fair-weather, European-style alpine skiing in Japan, where the mountains are often characterized by harsh, heavy-snowfall days.
Perched atop the Shirakaba Highlands, amidst a sea of mountain ranges in central-eastern Nagano Prefecture, its high altitude away from the northern snow front means it enjoys mild weather and plenty of blue skies. Crisp, cold, alpine air crystalizes and maintains snow in pristine condition ‒ perfect for families, intermediate and advanced skiers alike.
What’s more, fresh snow is guaranteed every day thanks to more than 100 snowmaking machines that top up the ski slopes with a fresh layer of powder throughout each night. Across the eight resorts there are 27 chair lifts, 2 gondolas and almost 50km of runs for you to explore. A fleet of snow cats immaculately grooms the slopes for firm, fast runs that have nurtured World Cup ski racers including local hero Fukui Godai.
Fresh snow does sometimes fall at 8 Peaks, but for those who want a taste of deep powder, the national highway links the resort to famous powder havens including Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen and Shiga Kogen just over two hours away. These resorts are closer to the snow front blowing in from the Sea of Japan and make for a relatively easy day trip, opening up a world of skiing options with 8 Peaks as your base.
A Pristine Alpine Paradise Just a Snowballs Throw from Tokyo
One could be forgiven for thinking they were surveying the European Alps were it not for the iconic, graceful form of Mt Fuji punctuating the panorama. Japan’s most famous mountain is among 40 visible from the highest vantage point of the 8 Peaks Ski Resort, and witnessing it is a highlight of any trip to Japan. 8 Peaks is characterised by its picturesque alpine setting ‒ the jagged mountain ranges of central Japan form the backdrop to the eight local ski resorts, which are nestled amongst forests and glades, with crystal-clear Lake Shirakaba (pictured below covered in snow) as its centrepiece.
Each resort has its own unique character, from exposed open peaks and bowls at Shirakabako Royal Hill in the west, to short sharp ungroomed piste and tree runs at Shirakaba 2 in 1 in the east. Pilatus Tateshina is a standout ‒ with an iconic old-European-style cable car (pictured below), it is one Japan’s highest, most charismatic and wild resorts. It’s just 15-minutes drive from Lake Shirakaba, but a day floating above, and gliding through, giant snow-covered pine forests will leave you wondering which continent you’ve been transported to.
8 Peaks’ gentle mountain sunsets are beautifully accompanied by outdoor onsen (hot spring) baths with family and friends. Beer lovers are well advised to add an exclamation point to their après activities with a pint (or more) of the exquisite local brews by 8 Peaks Brewery. As one of the closest ski resorts to Tokyo’s Haneda airport, 8 Peaks allows visitors to experience the best of Japanese ski culture within easy access domestically and internationally.
Itʼs best to find new ski destination from 8 Peaks resort Ambassdors
Fresh snow guaranteed and mild alpine weather ‒ what’s not to love! 8 Peaks is a unique new Japanese skiing experience for international visitors. Japanese skiing often comes with blizzards, super cold winds, and foggy ski goggles. With panoramic alpine views and plenty of sunshine, 8 Peaks feels more like skiing in the European Alps ‒ but served with Japanese culture and hospitalty.
Kristian Lund / Powderlife Magazine
It’s amazing to see Mt Fuji from the ski trails! Door-to-door shuttle service from Tokyo Haneda airport makes it easy to access. The main Ikenotaira Hotel overlooks Lake Shirakaba. 3 generations of ski and hotel businesses have been providing unique services to international families with Japanese and international staff. It’s like a world class ski resort with Niseko-class services.
Hiro Takahashi / Hero Hokkaido Ski Concierge
