You’ve heard of Niseko and Hakuba, but have you skied above Japan’s deepest lake? Tazawako Ski Area may not be on every traveler’s radar—and that’s exactly why it’s worth discovering. This ski resort pairs sweeping views of emerald-green Lake Tazawa and a peaceful, crowd-free atmosphere with some of the finest powder snow in Japan.
Winter Views

Tazawako is renowned for its light, top-quality powder, a well-kept secret among international skiers and snowboarders. It’s a dream destination for those seeking backcountry and sidecountry terrain, with vast, untouched snowfields just waiting to be explored. But the sweeping views of Lake Tazawa proves that Tazawako isn’t just about great snow—it’s also about perspective. This one-of-a-kind experience, often referred to as “Lake Cruising,” lets skiers glide down slopes with Japan’s deepest lake shimmering in the distance. It’s a visual thrill that consistently earns Tazawako high marks in ski destination rankings.
The same distinctiveness in Tazawako’s winter views and powdery snow is also fueling its international rise. As a longtime host of the Mogul World Cup, Tazawako has also built a reputation for athletic excellence, drawing elite competitors from across the globe. With its rising international profile and a steady increase in overseas visitors, this underrated resort is now firmly establishing itself on the global ski map.

Tazawako Ski Area Highlights
Tazawako Ski Area offers a terrain mix that keeps every level of rider engaged. From wide-open beginner slopes to steeper, more technical trails for intermediates and experts, the resort balances accessibility with excitement. You can check out the full list of trails and difficulty levels on the official course map here.
To make the most of it, the resort offers guided Hike-Up tours, ideal for riders who want a safe and memorable backcountry experience. See the options below.
Hike-Up Tour:
- Half-day: ¥5,200 per person (minimum 2 guests)
- Full-day: ¥9,500 per person (minimum 2 guests)
Private Tour
- ¥48,000 (up to 6 guests): perfect for groups seeking exclusive terrain and personalized guidance.
Lift tickets are not included in the price. For everything, from lift tickets to ski and snowboard rentals, click here for details.
For those who prefer to explore on their own, free-run access to backcountry areas is also available. However, guests are kindly asked to follow local safety rules and respect the environment. Tazawako’s backcountry is beautiful, and preserving it ensures others can enjoy it too. Additionally, while hiking tour information is offered on-site, English-language support may not always be readily available, so it’s a good idea to check ahead online or ask your accommodation to help confirm details before your visit.
Finally, after a long day in the snow, it’s nice to have a warm, comfortable place to return to. The Tazawako Ski Center is well-equipped with everything you need for a smooth and relaxing experience on and off the slopes. Inside, you'll find amenities such as the cozy Lounge Kuromori on the 2nd floor, a stylish café-style space perfect for warming up between runs. The facility includes restaurants, a powder room, lockers, changing rooms, and guest rooms (reservation required). There are also shops, a kids' room, and dedicated areas for ski lesson reception and ticket information. Whether you're skiing with family or riding solo, the ski center offers a convenient and welcoming base for your winter adventure.


Getting to Tazawako and Where to Stay
Getting to Tazawako is surprisingly easy, with multiple transportation options available. You can take the Akita Shinkansen directly to Tazawako Station, just under three hours from Tokyo, about one hour and 16 minutes from Sendai, 56 minutes from Akita, or only 29 minutes from Morioka. From the station, a local bus bound for Kogen Onsen or Nyuto Onsen gets you to the Tazawako Ski Area in approximately 30 minutes, with 13 buses operating daily. Taxis are also available outside the station for a faster, more flexible option.
For travelers arriving by air, the Akita Airport Liner offers a convenient, pre-booked shared taxi service that takes you directly to the resort. There are also overnight buses from the Tokyo metropolitan area, including Yokohama Station (West Gate) and Hamamatsucho Bus Terminal, to Tazawako Station (reserved seating only). For details and reservations, contact the Ugokotsu Express Bus Reservation Center at 0182-32-9500.
Once you arrive, you'll find a wide range of nearby accommodations, from scenic lakeside hotels and cozy guesthouses to traditional hot spring inns. After a day on the slopes, relax in the soothing waters of Nyuto, Mizusawa, or Tamagawa Onsen—each known for its natural beauty and calming atmosphere. Easy to reach and hard to leave, Tazawako Ski Area offers the ideal blend of adventure and relaxation.