As 2025 is coming to an end, how was your year?
In Japan, many ski resorts opened slightly later than usual this season, but the number of international visitors has continued to grow.
Are you planning to spend New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day in Japan?
If so, why not join a countdown event at a ski resort?
At major ski resorts across Japan, events such as fireworks and parties are held on the night of December 31. In this article, we will introduce countdown events held at several major ski resorts and explain what makes celebrating New Year’s Eve at a ski resort so special.
Why Are Countdown Events at Ski Resorts So Popular?
First, let’s take a look at why countdown events at Japanese ski resorts are so popular.
❄ Snowy Mountains × New Year = An Extraordinary Experience
Counting down to the New Year surrounded by snow-covered mountains, bonfires, fireworks, and taiko drum performances is completely different from spending New Year’s Eve in a city. The crisp air, the white winter landscape, and skiers and snowboarders from all over the world coming together— it is an unforgettable travel experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
❄ Enjoy It Together with Skiing
Ski during the day, warm up in an onsen in the evening, and relax until the countdown event at night. This flow is a uniquely Japanese way to enjoy winter that is rarely found at ski resorts in Europe or other parts of Asia.
❄ Experience Japanese Culture
Listening to taiko drum performances and enjoying soba noodles or Japanese sake are experiences unique to Japan. These special cultural moments can only be enjoyed during New Year’s Eve and the New Year holidays.
Hakuba Happo-One Ski Resort – A Quiet New Year Surrounded by Mountains
Located in northern Nagano Prefecture, Hakuba Happo-One Ski Resort is a world-famous large-scale ski resort. Its countdown event takes place against the backdrop of majestic mountains, offering a New Year’s experience that feels deeply connected to nature.
Hakuba Happo-One Countdown Event (Example)
According to the official website, the countdown event at Hakuba Happo-One is mainly held around the plaza in the Happo area. Bonfires, taiko drum performances, a group countdown, and sometimes warm drinks are offered. Combined with illuminated ski slopes, it creates a calm and memorable New Year’s Eve.
What Makes Hakuba Special
- High elevation with breathtaking mountain scenery
- A relaxed atmosphere, as many guests are dedicated skiers and snowboarders
- A wide selection of hot spring inns and pensions
- An international crowd, with relatively reliable English support
Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort – A Countdown Linked with the Hot Spring Town
The countdown event at Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort is not limited to the ski area itself, but is closely connected with the hot spring town. Event information is available on the official website, allowing visitors to experience not only skiing but also the traditional culture of Nozawa Onsen.
Nozawa Onsen Countdown Highlights
- Taiko drum performances in the hot spring town plaza
- Countdown fireworks
- Food stalls and night markets around the town
The entire town is filled with a festive New Year atmosphere. After skiing, soaking in an onsen and joining the countdown event in a relaxed state is an exceptional experience.
What Makes Nozawa Onsen Special
- Many public bathhouses (soto-yu) that can be visited freely
- Strong connections with the local community
- Rich food culture, including oyaki, soba, and sake
- A chance to enjoy a traditional Japanese hot spring town during New Year
Niseko Grand Hirafu – An International Countdown with Skiers from Around the World
Niseko Grand Hirafu in Hokkaido is globally famous as a paradise for powder snow. Here, the main attraction is a lively, international countdown party shared with guests from all over the world.
Niseko Countdown Event
Every year at Niseko Grand Hirafu, events such as:
- Fireworks
- Taiko drum performances
- DJ performances
- Guest-participation countdown celebrations
These create a festive New Year’s Eve atmosphere. The contrast between the snow-covered slopes, illuminated night skiing, and fireworks is truly spectacular.
What Makes Niseko Special
- The excitement of welcoming the New Year with travelers from many countries
- Numerous restaurants and bars open late into the night
- A perfect combination of skiing and lively New Year celebrations
- Excellent English support at facilities and tours
Rusutsu Resort – A Countdown Event Popular with Families
Rusutsu Resort is a large integrated resort in Hokkaido, featuring not only a ski area but also hotels, an amusement park, and hot springs. Because of this, it offers countdown events that are easy to enjoy for families and groups.
Rusutsu Countdown Event (Example)
According to the official blog, Rusutsu offers:
- Events held near the ski slopes
- Activities designed for children
- Night skiing combined with a countdown celebration
- Special events for hotel guests
These events are designed to be enjoyable for all age groups.
What Makes Rusutsu Special
- Skiing, hot springs, and accommodation all within one resort
- A safe and comfortable environment for families with children
- Easy access and convenient parking
- Courses suitable for beginners to advanced skiers
What Makes Countdown Events Even More Special
① New Year’s Fireworks
In Japan, launching fireworks on New Year’s Eve is not a common tradition (except in some cities), but many ski resorts feature fireworks displays. The contrast between snow and fireworks leaves a powerful and uniquely Japanese winter impression.
② Local Artists and Taiko Performances
Taiko drum and traditional instrument performances are often included, allowing visitors to experience Japanese culture during the New Year.
③ The Combination with Hot Springs
Soaking in an onsen after skiing or after the event warms your body from the core. This combination of “skiing + events + hot springs” is a New Year’s experience unique to Japan and rarely found in Europe or other parts of Asia.
Conclusion: Celebrating New Year at a Ski Resort Creates Unforgettable Memories
Countdown events at Japanese ski resorts are not just about the moment when the year changes. They are special experiences where snow, culture, and travel memories come together.
- Niseko offers an international party atmosphere
- Hakuba provides a quiet New Year surrounded by mountains
- Nozawa Onsen combines festivities with a traditional hot spring town
- Rusutsu offers a safe and enjoyable environment for families
Each destination offers a unique way to celebrate New Year’s Eve. We hope you will include one of these countdown events in your travel plans and create unforgettable memories of your New Year in Japan.
