Skiing Japan: Best Gifu Resorts for Experts

One of my goals on my bucket list for Japan is skiing.

It has been far too long since my last skiing adventure—over 12 years ago in the breathtaking Les Trois Vallées, France.

Before relocating to Japan, I stumbled upon a captivating documentary—probably on YouTube—focused on skiing in Nagano. At that point, it felt like an unattainable dream, as I never imagined embarking on a skiing holiday in Japan while living in the Netherlands.

Now, fast forward to today: skiing in Japan has transformed from a dream into a tangible goal, especially since I now reside in Gifu.

I have been diligently researching various ski areas in Gifu, specifically targeting those that are best suited for an advanced skier like myself.

Here’s a list of ski resorts in Gifu Prefecture, ranked by their suitability for advanced skiers, from the most challenging to the more accessible options:

Best for Advanced Skiers (Ranked by Challenge)

Dynaland
- Description: Extensive slopes featuring challenging runs and freestyle terrain make this a top pick for advanced skiers.
- Access: Approximately a 1-hour drive from Gifu City, or a train ride to Takayama followed by a local bus.
- Accommodation: Dynaland Hotel (~¥15,000 per night) or nearby lodges.
- Ski Rentals: Full-day rental available for about ¥4,000.
Washigatake Ski Area
- Description: Technical slopes with steep sections and moguls provide a thrilling experience.
- Access: Around 1 hour and 30 minutes by private car, or 2 hours using train and bus.
- Accommodation: Washigatake Onsen Hotel (~¥12,000 per night) or resort lodges.
- Ski Rentals: Full-day rental costs about ¥3,500.
Takasu Snow Park
- Description: Renowned for its freestyle park, long runs, and expert terrain.
- Access: 1 hour and 15 minutes by car from Gifu, or via train to Gujo followed by a local bus.
- Accommodation: Takasu Hotel (~¥10,000 per night) or nearby guesthouses.
- Ski Rentals: Full-day rentals start at around ¥4,000.
White Pia Takasu
- Description: Challenging advanced runs paired with a relaxed atmosphere create a unique skiing experience.
- Access: Roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes by car; public transport is also available via train to Gujo and a bus.
- Accommodation: White Pia Takasu Hotel (~¥12,500 per night) or chalets nearby.
- Ski Rentals: On-site rentals available for approximately ¥3,800 for a full day.
Meiho Ski Area
- Description: Home to the longest runs in the area, with diverse terrain that includes steep sections for veterans.
- Access: About 1 hour and 30 minutes by car, or 2 hours by public transport (train + bus).
- Accommodation: Meiho Onsen Hotel (~¥11,000 per night) or nearby lodges.
- Ski Rentals: Estimated full-day rental at ¥4,000.
Hōnokidaira Ski Area
- Description: High elevation features challenging courses with excellent snow quality.
- Access: Approximately 2 hours by car or train to Takayama followed by a bus.
- Accommodation: Hōnokidaira Hotel (~¥14,000 per night) or local ryokans.
- Ski Rentals: Full-day rentals cost about ¥3,500.
Winghills Shirotori Resort
- Description: Offers good terrain for advanced skiers and is generally less crowded.
- Access: About 1 hour from Gifu by car; bus options are also available.
- Accommodation: Winghills Resort Hotel (~¥10,500 per night).
- Ski Rentals: On-site rental shop offers rentals for about ¥3,800 per day.
Snow Wave Park Shiratori Kōgen
- Description: Boasts advanced freestyle options with fewer crowds for a more serene experience.
- Access: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car or via train + bus.
- Accommodation: Shiratori Kōgen Lodge (~¥9,500 per night).
- Ski Rentals: Full-day rental available for around ¥4,200.
Hirugano Kōgen Ski Area
- Description: Features challenging terrain balanced with options suitable for various skill levels.
- Access: 1 hour by car or 2 hours by public transport.
- Accommodation: Hirugano Resort Hotel (~¥13,000 per night).
- Ski Rentals: Rentals are approximately ¥3,600 for a full day.
Mont Deus Hida Kuraiyama Snow Park
- Description: Offers scenic slopes with a blend of intermediate-to-advanced runs.
- Access: About 1 hour and 40 minutes by car; train options available to Takayama followed by bus.
- Accommodation: Nearby hotels (~¥10,000 per night).
- Ski Rentals: Estimated at ¥3,800 for a full-day rental.
Star Spur Ryokufu Resort Hida Nagareha
- Description: Stunning views accompany advanced runs for a striking experience.
- Access: Approximately 2 hours by car from Gifu, or via train + bus.
- Accommodation: Ryokufu Resort Hotel (~¥15,000 per night).
- Ski Rentals: Available on-site for about ¥4,200.
Ciao Ontake Snow Resort
- Description: Although a bit farther away, this resort promises excellent snow conditions for experts.
- Access: Around 2 hours by car or a combination of train and bus.
- Accommodation: Ciao Ontake hotels (~¥12,000 per night) or nearby chalets.
- Ski Rentals: Rentals available at the resort for approximately ¥3,500 per day.