Forget Europe and Canada: Aussies love skiing in Japan

Australia’s love affair with holidaying in Japan’s Nagano has soared to new heights.

Figures released by the Japan Tourism Agency have Australia at number one markets among the long-haul visitors to the popular ski region also famous for its hot springs and snow monkeys.

Australia was ranked number two overall behind Japan neighbour Taiwan while nearby Hong Kong claimed third spot.

The figures were based on the number of days and nights travellers spent in Nagano.

In the first five months of 2024, this rise resulted in a staggering growth of more than 90% compared with the same period last year. 

“In all, Australians made up to 100,630 bed nights during that period,” said Helen Wong, Australian representative of the Nagano Tourism Organization.

“That’s quite an impressive jump from last year’s 52,700 and shows how treasured this region of Japan is to Australians seeking a northern winter break.”

Nagano, about 250km north-west of Tokyo, is home to some of Japan’s best ski resorts, offering a variety of experiences for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.

The best time for skiers and snowboarders to visit is typically from late December to early March with January and February the peak months for its deepest powdery snow.

Adding to Nagano’s winter appeal are several special events, including The Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival.

The Shiga Kogen ski resort hosts Snow Monkey Beer Live which combines the tasting of craft beer with live music.

In mid-February, the Iiyama City features snow sculptures along with fireworks and throughout the ski season, Hakuba Happo-One hosts several fireworks displays, lighting up the snowcapped mountains.

Beyond its ski resorts, Nagano offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences.

It is renowned for its traditional hot springs. Other highlights include Zenko-ji Temple, Matsumoto Castle, Jigokudani Monkey Park, famous for its snow monkeys that bathe in the springs.

Details: Nagano Tourism Organization: Go Nagano (go-nagano.net)

No monkey business: Nagano sets its sights on Australian tourists

Nagano is probably not the first region that comes to mind for Australians visiting Japan.

But the Nagano Tourism Oganization plans to change that by appointing its first Australian representative to boost awareness. 

And not just any representative but industry veteran Helen Wong, a legendary figure in the travel business over five decades. 

It is significant move by the regional tourism body that aims to position Nagano - known as the Rooftop of Japan - in the forefront of Australian travellers’ thoughts and plans through strategic marketing and public relations.

The first assignment will take place on Tuesday, February 27 with a 30-minute themed webinar on the  prefecture, which hosted the Winter Olympics and Paralympics in 1998. 

See https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdPgBtF4GSrwa-GHiJlJYYbTgVXGvyXoUs9wFtD3nMbxX10sw/viewform?fbclid=IwAR0n_xHnwevwwsiIsLsnyB8tZXBoH5DI5dfs83dn4Rj8quZlQWUGzx7EvZ4 

Nagano is 225km north-west of Tokyo and one of the major attractions in the alpine region is the Jigokudani Monkey Park (top), where the Japanese macaques, commonly known as snow monkeys, bathe in the hot springs. 

Tokyo and Nagano are connected by the Hokoriku Shinkansen (bullet train) - which takes 80-minutes. 

“It’s an honour to be representing this breath-taking, naturally gifted corner of Japan,” said Wong (right).

“Nagano has so much to offer with a great number of Australians already familiar with the ski fields, national parks, hot springs and, of course, the Jigokudani Monkey Park,” she said.

“There’s a lot more to the region, however, which needs to be highlighted in attracting newcomers and further building on the already impressive figures.”

Wong has 45 years’ of experience in global tourism having represented the Macao Government Tourism Office and the Shanghai Municipal Tourism Commission. She also has her own events and travel business.

See go-nagano.net