When it comes to global season passes, the IKON Pass is one of the most widely recognized options. Its popularity has been rising rapidly, especially in the United States, and as international ski travel grows, the number of ski resorts in Japan that accept the pass has also increased. Starting from the 2025–2026 season, Shiga Kogen, Myoko Suginohara, Furano, and Zao Onsen have joined as new participating resorts. This article provides a comprehensive explanation of how the IKON Pass works, where it can be used in Japan, how to purchase it, and key points to keep in mind. It is useful both for those planning overseas ski trips and for anyone wondering how it differs from the EPIC Pass.
1. What Is the IKON Pass?
The IKON Pass is an “international multi-resort season pass” operated by Alterra Mountain Company in the United States. With a single pass, you can ski at partner resorts around the world, primarily in North America, Europe, and Oceania—over 50 resorts in total.
The IKON Pass is popular for three main reasons:
- ① Access to world-famous ski resorts
Not only major American resorts (such as Mammoth, Steamboat, and the Park City region), but also Whistler in Canada, Zermatt in Europe, and even ski areas in South America and Australia. - ② Ideal for long stays and multi-country ski trips
Since you can ski across different countries during one season, the pass suits those who travel while skiing throughout winter. - ③ Unlimited skiing at many resorts with the top-tier pass
With the highest-tier IKON Pass, you get unlimited access at over 15 ski resorts, and most others come with 5–7 included days.
2. Types of IKON Pass and Ski Resorts Available in Japan
There are three types of IKON Pass. However, the IKON Session Pass is not included in this explanation because it can only be used at Niseko United in Japan and is generally more expensive than purchasing directly through the ski resort.
Price for 2025/2026 Season
| IKON PASS (Full) | IKON BASE PASS (Base) | |
|---|---|---|
| Age 23+ | $1,529.00 | $1,109.00 |
| Ages 13–22 | $1,189.00 | $829.00 |
| Ages 5–12 | $459.00 | $389.00 |
| Ages 4 and under | $159.00 | $109.00 |
Available Days in Japan
| Ski Resort | IKON PASS | IKON BASE PASS |
|---|---|---|
| Niseko United* | 7 days | 5 days |
| Lotte Arai | 7 days | 5 days |
| Shiga Kogen | 7 days | 5 days |
| Mt. T | 7 days | 5 days |
| Myoko Suginohara | 7 days | 5 days |
| Appi | 7 days | 5 days |
| Furano | 7 days | 5 days |
| Nekoma Mountain | 7 days | 5 days |
| Zao Onsen | 7 days | 5 days |
*At Niseko, blackout dates apply to the Base Pass (2025/12/27–31, 2026/1/17–18, 2026/2/14–15).
*IKON Session Pass (2-, 3-, and 4-day options) is also valid at Niseko.
3. How to Buy: Can You Purchase from Japan?
Yes—you can purchase the IKON Pass from the official website using a Japanese address.
The purchase process is as follows:
- Visit the official IKON Pass website.
- Select your plan (Pass / Base / Plus).
- Register your personal information (name, address, photo, etc.).
- Pay by credit card.
- Receive your digital pass, and the physical card will be shipped to your home.
Some ski resorts allow you to ski using the QR code inside the mobile app even before the physical card arrives.
4. Benefits of the IKON Pass
- One pass works worldwide
If you visit multiple major resorts in the U.S. or Canada, the cost becomes significantly cheaper than buying day passes. - No price changes during peak periods
Unlike some Japanese resorts that use variable pricing, IKON Pass usage costs the same on any date. - Makes overseas skiing far more affordable
High-end resorts like Whistler or Aspen normally cost $150–$250 per day, so the IKON Pass offers excellent value for long trips.
5. Drawbacks and Things to Watch Out For
- The price is high
The full pass can exceed $1,500, making it a big investment. - Limited coverage in Japan
Only a few resorts are available compared to domestic passes. - Reservations required at some resorts
To prevent overcrowding, certain regions or resorts require advance reservations. - Reissuing the card can be troublesome
Some resorts charge a fee for card replacement.
6. Comparison with the EPIC Pass
| Category | IKON Pass | EPIC Pass |
|---|---|---|
| Operator | Alterra | Vail Resorts |
| Available in Japan | 9 locations | 2 locations (Rusutsu, Hakuba) |
| Worldwide partners | Approx. 50 | Approx. 80 |
| Price (Adult) | $1,529.00 | $1,121.00 |
| Strengths | North America + Oceania | North America + Europe |
7. Who Should Choose the IKON Pass?
The IKON Pass provides great value if you:
- Travel to North America to ski every year
- Ski in multiple countries in a single season
- Want to tour various ski resorts in Japan
- Plan to ski at premium resorts like Whistler or Aspen
- Have long vacations in winter
On the other hand, if you “only ski in Japan” or “ski only a few times per year,” the cost-effectiveness may be low. For those who mainly visit Hakuba or Rusutsu, the EPIC Pass often offers greater value.
Conclusion
The IKON Pass is an excellent option for skiers and snowboarders who want to travel freely across the world’s ski resorts. Although the price is high, the quality and number of participating resorts make it a cost-effective choice for frequent international skiers. The number of participating ski resorts in Japan is increasing each year, meaning you can enjoy a wider selection of locations compared to the EPIC Pass.
If you want to explore multiple destinations overseas or ride major North American resorts, the IKON Pass is absolutely worth considering.
