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In Japan...it snows

An awful lot. Different Snow feature twelve of the very best ski resorts in Japan, where the powder is waist deep and life-affirming.

Skiing in Japan
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. 

Examples of our Tailor-Made itineraries
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 - Resort
Resort

Niseko

On Hokkaido Island, Japan's most internationally renowned and beloved ski resort.

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Nozawa Onsen - Resort
Resort

Nozawa Onsen

Our favourite ski resort in Japan is an authentic hot spring village in the Japanese Alps.

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Hakuba Valley - Resort
Resort

Hakuba Valley

Ten stunning ski mountains in one valley, Japan’s most varied and diverse resort.

109
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Myoko Kogen - Resort
Resort

Myoko Kogen

Tons of powder snow, an authentic Japanese ski village & access to several resorts.

40
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Furano - Resort
Resort

Furano

An authentic Japanese ski town in the snowy centre of Hokkaido Island.

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Arai - Resort
Resort

Arai

Japan's newest ski resort. An amazing ungroomed, freeride mountain and wonderful luxe hotel.

5
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Zao Onsen - Resort
Resort

Zao Onsen

For the snow monsters, the hot springs and a thoroughly authentic Japanese experience.

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Shiga Kogen - Resort
Resort

Shiga Kogen

Japan's largest and highest ski resort...and it's empty. Endless terrain and fresh tracks galore!

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Asahikawa - Resort
Resort

Asahikawa

Hokkaido's second city, with Japan's best skiing on its doorstep including the infamous Asahidake r...

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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…

Our story

Glorious Snow

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.

Total Flexibility

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. 

World class resorts with NO crowds!

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.

Our Honesty

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!

Skiing & Onsen

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

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. 

It's Japan!

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.

Financial Security

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. 

What our customers say

5 star rating

Our customers rate us 'Excellent'

I would highly recommend Different Snow

They put together a Christmas holiday for 7 of us at fairly short notice. The holiday was well organised, the suggestions were excellent and everything worked like a dream. We had a great holiday and were extremely grateful.

E.M.  ·  U.K.

Different Snow - Different Class!

Late last summer we decided on a family ski trip to Japan. It was late notice really but we thought it worth a try. Different Snow somehow managed to put together a great holiday. DS organised all transfers, and provided a brilliant itinerary. We would thoroughly recommend them.

Stuart  ·  Bristol, UK

Please visit our Trustpilot page to read the full reviews.

Begin your journey
How to book

It's pretty straight forward. You simply need to take the first step by getting in contact with us...

Contact

Give us a call, or fill in the enquiry form, or send us an email. We’ll listen, give advice and make suggestions.

Itinerary

We create a tailor-made itinerary proposal and email this to you. Together, we then refine it until it is just as you want.

Deposit

A 20% deposit secures the booking. The balance payment is not due until 10 weeks before departure.

Travel Pack

We post out your comprehensive travel pack, which also includes all our local contacts and our invaluable ‘How To…’ guides.