(Guided tour) Winter in Tohoku: Japan’s best powder snow
This 7-day winter journey through Tohoku combines deep cultural heritage, spectacular snow landscapes, and the healing power of hot springs. Beginning in Tsuruoka, you’ll explore the sacred Dewa Sanzan mountains, snowshoe to hidden pagodas, and follow ancient pilgrim paths under a blanket of snow. The adventure continues at Mt. Yudono, where a backcountry ski guide will lead you into pristine mountain scenery before you refuel on local specialties like duck hot pot and handmade soba. From there, experience the thrill of Yudonosan Ski Area, then head to Zao Ski Resort to ski among the region’s famous “snow monsters,” followed by relaxing evenings in the historic hot spring town of Zao Onsen. Rounding out the trip, you’ll visit the serene Lake Tazawa and conclude with a restorative stay at Nyuto Onsen, where rustic inns and milky mineral baths provide the perfect finish before returning to Tokyo.
Day 1 – Mt. Haguro’s snowy excursion
In the morning, arrive at Tsuruoka station, where you’ll enjoy lunch before heading for Mt. Haguro. Arrived in Zuishinmon, you’ll meet with your host for the night (a shukubo at the foot of Mt. Haguro). Leave your belongings, and put your snowshoes on. Follow your guide to see the snowy five-storied pagoda and climb Mt. Haguro’s steep steps covered in snow (extreme difficulty). We’ll head for Gassan Visitor Center through Mt. Haguro’s old pilgrim path, expecting to spot a few animals on the way. We’ll take the bus back to the pilgrim lodge from there.
Day 2 – Mt. Yudono’s backcountry
On the second day, we’ll head to Tamugimata village, the starting point for many routes into Mt. Yudono. There, we’ll meet a local backcountry ski guide and explore the mountain’s winter scenery together. For lunch, we’ll recharge with a comforting meal of duck soup and handmade soba noodles, a regional specialty. In the evening, you’ll stay at Yasuno Ryokan, a family-run inn where you can enjoy a hot spring bath and traditional Japanese hospitality.
Day 3 – Yudonosan Ski Area
The third day will be a bliss for snowboarders, as Yudonosan Ski area is often referred to “A Paradise for Snowboarders”! Its half-pipes courses have been designed by the former athlete Jun Maruyama. Sleep at Zao Onsen.
Day 4&5 – Zao Ski Resort
No winter trip to Tohoku is complete without seeing Zao’s famous “snow monsters”—trees covered in thick layers of snow and ice. You’ll ski across this unique landscape at the Zao resort, then spend the night at Zao Onsen. Zao Ski Resort in Yamagata Prefecture is one of Tohoku’s largest and most historic ski areas, with dozens of lifts connecting a wide range of slopes for both beginners and advanced skiers. Its most famous attraction is the “snow monsters”, trees completely covered in thick layers of snow and ice that create a breathtaking winter landscape, especially when illuminated at night. After a day on the slopes or a ropeway ride to admire the snow monsters up close, visitors can unwind in the nearby Zao Onsen, a hot spring town with over 1,900 years of history. Known for its sulfur-rich waters and traditional atmosphere, Zao offers not just great skiing but also a uniquely Japanese winter experience.
Day 6- Lake Tazawa
Visit Lake Tazawa, Japan’s deepest lake, for a peaceful winter excursion. Surrounded by mountains, the lake is especially striking when framed by snow. In the afternoon, you’ll head up to the ski area overlooking the lake, where you can enjoy the slopes along with sweeping views of the water below.
Day 7 – Nyuto Onsen
Spend a full day at Nyuto Onsen in Akita Prefecture, a secluded hot spring area tucked into the mountains. Known for its rustic wooden ryokan and milky-white mineral waters, Nyuto Onsen has long been cherished as a healing retreat. With no plans on the schedule, you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the outdoor baths, relax your muscles, and enjoy the quiet atmosphere of the surrounding forest before heading back to Tokyo.
