ENGLISH SKI & SNOWBOARD LESSONS
OFFERED IN JAPAN'S SNOW COUNTRY
Experience World-Class Snowsports with Canyons
From the rugged peaks of Minakami and Yuzawa to the legendary powder of Nozawa Onsen, Myoko, and Shiga Kogen, Canyons is your gateway to Japan’s most iconic alpine terrain. Perfectly accessible from Tokyo, these world-class destinations offer everything from convenient weekend escapes to deep-powder expeditions.
As a premier name in Japanese mountain sports, Canyons provides more than just a day on the slopes. We offer professional ski and snowboard lessons for all levels, alongside elite backcountry tours for those looking to discover the hidden stashes and untouched powder Japan is famous for.
Why Choose the Canyons Experience?
Expert International Instructors & Guides: Our team of highly qualified, English-speaking professionals are experts in both technical instruction and mountain safety.
From Piste to Peak: Whether you are a beginner taking your first lesson or an expert seeking a guided backcountry adventure, we tailor every experience to your goals.
Unrivaled Regional Expertise: We provide premium snowsports services across five of Japan's best regions: Minakami, Yuzawa, Nozawa, Myoko, and Shiga Kogen.
Simply choose your location and get ready to experience the mountain with the best in the business!
MINAKAMI
The name Minakami (水上) translates into English as 'the source of the water,' due to it being the origin of the Tone-Gawa, Japan's second-longest river. The same landscape that earned Minakami its name also creates a perfect playground for outdoor pursuits.
During winter, heavy snowfalls turn this mountainous region into a haven for a variety of winter sports.
How about our winter package?
If you would like a total plan that includes accommodation arrangements, transportation, and other sightseeing, please check out our Canyons Winter Package Plans. Our Minakami specialists will create the perfect plan for your needs.
Minakami Ski Resorts
We offer private ski and snowboard lessons at Hodaigi Ski Resort & Minakami Kogen Resort 200, the most popular resorts in the Minakami area.
Hodaigi Ski Resort
Known for its soft snow and gentle slopes, Hodaigi is perfect for beginners to advanced lessons and those looking to improve their snowsports skills in a relaxed, scenic setting.
See Hodaigi ski and snowboard lessons
Hodaigi is also home to many of our exciting winter activities, including:
Winter Outdoor Education Programmes
Minakami Kogen Resort 200
Minakami Kogen is pefect for families with younger kids or people that are new to skiing. The slopes are mainly suited for first time ski or snowboarders and beginners. There is also a ski-in ski-out hotel with western style rooms.
See Minakami Kogen ski and snowboard lessons
We can also arrange private lessons at other Minakami ski resorts on request just let us know your preferences.
Access From Tokyo; Minakami is approximately 2 hours (141 km) by car or a combination of Bullet Train and bus.
Learn more about Hodaigi Ski Resort
Learn more about Minakami Kogen Resort 200
Mt. T Backcountry Tours
Locally known as Tenjin, Tanigawadake Tenjindaira Ski Resort offers access to some of the best alpine and tree-line terrain in Japan. Paired with some of the most reliable powder snow conditions, this destination is a dream come true for experienced skiers and snowboarders seeking an unforgettable backcountry adventure.
To make it even more epic, guests joining our Canyons backcountry tours receive exclusive early access to the mountain enjoying first tracks with a 30-minute head start before public ropeway operations begin.
Please note: The backcountry terrain at Tenjin is suited for advanced-level skiers and snowboarders with solid skills and a love for powder, steeps, and trees. Not sure if it’s right for you? Our reservations team is happy to help you choose the best experience for your ability level.
Learn more about Mt.T
ECHIGO-YUZAWA
Located just 77 minutes from central Tokyo by bullet train, the picturesque town of Yuzawa offers easy access and a wide range of snow resorts, making it the perfect destination for day trips, weekend getaways or extended ski holidays.
We provide lessons at multiple resorts in Yuzawa, with our most popular locations being:
GALA Yuzawa Snow Resort, NASPA Ski Garden and Kagura Ski Resort (other resorts can also be arranged on request)
Looking to learn the basics? Our First-Time Group Ski Lessons are available exclusively at GALA Yuzawa, ideal for beginners seeking a supportive learning environment. For advanced riders, we also offer guided backcountry tours in the Yuzawa region — perfect for those looking to explore off-piste terrain and deep powder.
Guided backcountry tours are also available in Yuzawa.
Rental Equipment
We recommend PURE JOY rentals. Premiuim equipment delivered direct to your hotel for the best experience.
How about our winter package?
If you would like a total plan that includes accommodation arrangements, transportation, and other sightseeing, please check out our Canyons Winter Package Plans. Our Minakami specialists will create the perfect plan for your needs.
GALA Yuzawa Snow Resort
Looking for the perfect mix of a city break and snow adventure? GALA Yuzawa is the ideal destination just 77 minutes from Tokyo by Bullet Train.
Whether you’re a first-time skier or snowboarder, or looking to improve your skills, GALA offers the ultimate day-trip snow experience.
Private and group ski & snowboard lessons available
Ideal for beginners and intermediate riders
Canyons are the official international snowsports school at GALA Yuzawa
Lessons available in Chinese and Thai
Learn more about GALA Yuzawa
NASPA Ski Garden
NASPA Ski Garden is a premium, ski-only resort in Yuzawa, offering an exceptional snow experience in a relaxed and family-friendly environment.
Stay at the NASPA New Otani Hotel, a luxury ski-in, ski-out hotel located right next to the slopes the ideal choice for a family ski holiday in Japan.
Exclusive to skiers – no snowboarders
Private ski lessons only
Canyons are the official international snowsports school at NASPA Ski Garden
Learn more about NASPA Ski Garden
Kagura Resort
Located just a short trip from Tokyo, Kagura Ski Resort is one of Japan’s best ski resorts near Tokyo for off-piste terrain, deep powder snow, and long, varied runs that suit all skill levels.
Private ski and snowboard lessons available
Guided backcountry and off-piste tours for intermediate and advanced riders
Canyons is the official international snowsports school at Kagura Resort
Learn more about Kagura Ski Resort
Other Yuzawa Resorts
The snow town of Yuzawa boasts over 10 ski resorts, making it the perfect destination for variety and convenience.
We offer private ski and snowboard lessons at several resorts across Yuzawa, tailored to your location and ability level.
Learn more about which resorts we work alongside, here.
NAGANO SKI RESORTS
Nagano Prefecture is Japan’s ultimate snow paradise, home to some of the country’s highest mountains and boasting an average snowfall of over 4 meters each season. Renowned for its legendary “JAPOW” powder and varied terrain, Nagano offers unforgettable skiing and snowboarding experiences for everyone from first-timers to expert backcountry adventurers.
As the host of the 1998 Winter Olympics, Nagano provides world-class facilities and reliable snow conditions, making it an ideal destination for your next snow trip.
Easily accessible from Tokyo via bullet train, this stunning region lets you escape the city and immerse yourself in pristine mountain landscapes.
NOZAWA ONSEN
Nozawa Onsen is renowned for its deep powder snow, scenic mountain terrain, and traditional Japanese charm. As one of the largest ski areas in the Snow Country region, it offers a world-class ski experience combined with the unique atmosphere of a historic onsen village.
Private ski and snowboard lessons for all levels
Guided backcountry and off-piste tours available
Canyons is the official international ski school at Nozawa Onsen
Learn more about Nozawa Onsen
MYOKO
Famous for having one of the highest annual snowfalls in Japan, Myoko is a top destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
With multiple resorts offering everything from beginner slopes to advanced backcountry terrain, Myoko caters to families, groups, and powder enthusiasts alike. A wide range of accommodation options makes it an ideal base for your snow holiday.
Private lessons only
Multi resort packages available
Guided backcountry and off-piste tours available
Learn more about Myoko
SHIGA KOGEN
Shiga Kogen is one of Japan’s most extensive and snow-sure ski areas, offering over 600 hectares of terrain across 18 interlinked resorts all accessible with one lift pass. With reliable snowfall, long ski seasons, and terrain for all ability levels, it’s ideal for families, beginners, and advanced riders alike.
Enjoy everything from wide groomed runs to off-piste tree skiing, plus easy ski-in/ski-out access and traditional onsen experiences.
Private lessons only
Guided backcountry and off-piste tours available
Learn more about Shiga Kogen
Need more information?
Find answers to common questions in our FAQs
Not sure about your ski or snowboard level?
Check our ability level guide to find the right lesson for you
Ready to book?
Submit your booking request here