Owani Onsen

Located in Aomori Prefecture in northern Japan, Owani Onsen is a modest family-friendly ski resort that combines winter sports with the region's famous hot spring culture. Operating between elevations of 160m to 720m, the resort features 9 runs serviced by 5 lifts, making it an accessible option for beginners and intermediate skiers. The resort's relatively low altitude and compact size create an intimate, uncrowded skiing experience distinctly different from Japan's larger destination resorts.

What sets Owani Onsen apart is its impressive 650cm of annual snowfall—remarkable for its elevation—and the availability of night skiing, extending your time on the slopes after dark. The resort's true uniqueness lies in its namesake onsen (hot springs) at the base, where visitors can soak in therapeutic mineral waters after a day on the mountain, embodying the quintessential Japanese ski experience. This combination of reliable snow conditions, manageable terrain, and authentic onsen culture makes Owani Onsen an ideal choice for international visitors seeking a traditional Japanese winter getaway without the crowds of more famous resorts.