Japan has over 500 snow resorts from small to large throughout the nation. Of course, some are in Shimane too, located along its southern border with Hiroshima prefecture.

Compared to other Japan’s well-known snow resorts, i.e. Niseko in Hokkaido, Hakuba in Nagano, Yuzawa in Niigata, they are smaller and have a less number of courses. Though, they are less packed, usually no need to que up for lift, and furthermore, family-friendly! All equipment and clothing can be rented, so head there to have fun in the winter.

 

Snow Resorts in Shimane

Kotobiki Forest Park

[Official Website] (English site)
Open Season: December 8th, 2018  ~ mid March 2019
*closed for holiday on 12/31 ~ 1/4
Hours of Operation: [weekdays] 8:30 ~ 16:30 [weekends/holidays] 8:00 ~ 17:00
Night Skiing Hours: 16:00 ~ 21:00 (available thru reservation)
Address: 1151, Sami, Iinan Town, Iishi-gun, Shimane [map]

 

Miinohara Ski Resort

[Official Website]
Open Season: December 23rd, 2018 to February 28th, 2019 *end date is subject to change
Hours of Operation: 8:30 ~ 17:00
Address: Miinohara, Yakawa, Okuizumo Town, Nita-gun, Shimane [map]

 

Mizuho Highland

[Official Website]
Open Season: December 15th, 2018 ~ April 7th, 2019
Hours of Operation: 8:00 ~ 17:00
Night Skiing Hours: 17:30 ~ 22:00 [every Sat. thru Jan. and Feb. including 1/13, 2/10]
Address: 6242-19, Ichigi, Ohnan Town, Ochi-gun, Shimane [map]

 

Asahi Tenguston Snow Park

[Official Website]
Open Season: December 28th, 2018 ~ March 10th, 2019
Hours of Operation: 8:30 ~ 16:30
Address: 7600, Ichigi, Asahi-cho, Hamada City, Shimane [map]

Hamada Model Course: Active Holiday

 

*Most resorts are open from December to March, but please check their schedules on their websites. Ski Resorts are subject to close due to sudden changes in weather conditions.