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Skiing and Snowboarding
Toyama boasts a decent number of smaller ski resorts that are all relatively close to most major cities and towns. Although the snow in this prefecture is wetter than you may normally be used to, the resorts usually have good coverage and passes are pretty cheap.
Go on line to http://www.snowjapan.com Then enter Toyama in the prefecture search box. From there, you can click on any one of the local ski resorts and scroll down to the access information. It tells you the nearest train line, the name of the expressway to take and how many km’s to the resort.
Ski and Board High
Unless you are sure you are going to stay in Japan for more than one year, there is probably no real reason to buy your own board or skis. You can hire a late model board set-up, for an entire season and only pay between 1.5 and 2 man. If you are really lucky, sometimes, these boards have never been ridden. It is usually a popular option as apartments are small enough without having to store a board set-up all year around. There are various places that rent boards but one of the most common is APA in Toyama.
Hakuba- Nagano Prefecture Hakuba is where the 1998 Winter Olympics were held and although it can be a bit of a drive, it is a pretty popular spot for those of you who are into powder. In Hakuba, you a spoilt for choice in what is a relatively small region. If you get the chance to go there, definitely check out Goryu and Hakuba 47. For Hakuba it's the following directions.
Take the expressway from Toyama to the Itoigawa exit. At the first set of lights off the expressway, take a left. Continue along that road. It will take you all the way to Hakuba-mura. Signs for Hakuba 47 and Goryu etc. will be on the right side of the road.
Usually a full-day ticket costs ￥3000-￥6000. You can also get half-day tickets at most places. Some places sell tickets for a one-ride pass. For equipment, you can rent at the mountain. Also, check the used goods stores or one of the sporting goods shops. Watch for sales and you might beat the prices back home.
Click below for listings of places to ski and snowboard this winter!