Different Snow
We are avid skiers. Equally, we are in love with Japan.
Different Snow is a tour operator for the curious-minded ski or snowboarding adventurer, with a desire to venture beyond the same old resorts and instead head East.
We specialise in tailor-made ski & snowboard holidays to Japan. We have skied throughout the country - indeed, we only arrange travel to resorts we've visited multiple times ourselves, so you benefit from our first-hand experience. And our passion extends to the country beyond its ski slopes, so why not stay a little longer and explore Japan's many sights and extraordinary experiences with us?
We'd love for you to expand your horizons and experience some of the world's best (and most dependable) snow with us. Our tailor-made holidays are designed around your budget and aspirations - you choose the dates and duration, and we'll use our many years of experience to create the best possible itinerary.
Japan's Best Ski Resorts
Where to Ski or snowboard?
We go to the best-of-the-best of Japan's ski resorts; a unrivalled collection. But your choice of Japanese ski resort is not one to be made without seeking advice from someone who's been there and who's impartial. Do make sure you contact us and we'll talk you through the options.
Niseko
On Hokkaido Island, Japan's most internationally renowned and beloved ski resort.
Nozawa Onsen
Our favourite ski resort in Japan is an authentic hot spring village in the Japanese Alps.
Hakuba Valley
Ten stunning ski mountains in one valley, Japan’s most varied and diverse resort.
Myoko Kogen
Tons of powder snow, an authentic Japanese ski village & access to several resorts.
Arai
Japan's newest ski resort. An amazing ungroomed, freeride mountain and wonderful luxe hotel.
Zao Onsen
For the snow monsters, the hot springs and a thoroughly authentic Japanese experience.
Shiga Kogen
Japan's largest and highest ski resort...and it's empty. Endless terrain and fresh tracks galore!
Asahikawa
Hokkaido's second city, with Japan's best skiing on its doorstep including the infamous Asahidake r...
Why Japan? Why different snow?
Because you love the powder snow, because we are passionate about all things Japanese and because we both believe that a ski holiday should be all about…
It's simple. Prevailing winds blow the frozen air from Siberia east, skimming the Sea of Japan, and then dumping their bounty on the first land mass it comes across - the Japanese Islands. The result? An utterly predictable and dependable 12 to 18 metres of snow every year, kept chilled, crisp and fluffy by the cold temperatures. For you? Bottomless abundant powder.
We don't sell anything 'off the shelf' because we believe you'll have a better time if your tailor-made holiday is designed around you: your pace; your budget; your style.
We have chosen a handful or ski resorts that offer varied terrain, good grooming and great facilities. Between them, you'll find something to suit you; whether you're into skiing or snowboarding; cruising the gentle slopes or adventuring off piste.
We want you to see us as your go-to Japan snow gurus, and for that reason we've chosen to focus only on the places we know and love. So you can always count on us for up-to-date knowledge and an honest answer!
The ancient Japanese tradition of soaking in natural hot springs is still very much a part of life here, and it's nowhere more alive than in the ski resorts. After all, skiing and onsen are the perfect match.
Value for money is at the forefront of our minds – both as travellers and as tour operators. We monitor all our partner suppliers in Japan to make sure you get a good deal.
Did we mention that we love Japan? Whether meeting the iconic geisha, soaking in an onsen, or taking in the temples, we believe the unique, indelible culture in Japan adds a richness to your ski holiday which is hard to beat. The locals aren't merely 'polite', they're warm, engaging and welcoming.
We have no intention of going under (unless it's a big pile of snow), but you can take confidence from us being fully ATOL bonded and registered with the Protected Trust Services (PTS), meaning that your money is protected, whatever your holiday arrangements.