Hakuba Cortina

16 courses spread across 747m of vertical, but don't let the modest numbers fool you - this place is all about the off-piste. The groomed runs are wide and confidence-building at the bottom, then get progressively steeper as you climb. The real magic happens between the trees and in the backcountry gates that open up vast terrain toward Norikura.

Think boutique European ski lodge meets proper Japanese powder culture. Families dominate the lower mountain on weekends, but venture into the trees or hit the upper steeps and you'll find serious skiers who know something the Niseko crowds don't. Staff speak decent English, the base facilities have that polished resort feel, and the vibe stays relaxed even on busy days.

"Beautiful interior, nice restaurant. Steep steep slopes, some with tree runs. Amazing on powder days!"

— Google Review

• ✓Intermediate skiers ready to graduate from groomers - the tree runs here are forgiving enough to build confidence
• ✓Families who want European-style amenities without European prices or crowds
• ✓Powder hunters who've done Niseko and want to remember why they fell in love with Japanese snow

• ✗You need double blacks to feel alive - the steeps here are legitimate but not terrifying
• ✗You're chasing nightlife - this place rolls up early and the action is all mountain-focused
• ✗You're on a tight budget - the ski-in/ski-out convenience and resort amenities come at a premium

January through February for the deepest, driest powder - Cortina's northern position means it gets hit first and hardest by storms. Avoid the gondola chaos during New Year week and Japanese holidays when that 8:30am opening creates serious bottlenecks.

1. Expecting early first chair - the 8:30am gondola opening is late by Japanese standards
2. Underestimating the 'beginner' runs at the top - they're narrow and steep for green-rated terrain
3. Missing the joint ticket with Norikura - gives you access to way more terrain for barely any extra cost

1. Gondola opens late at 8:30am - get your gear sorted the night before because that first car fills up fast with locals heading to the powder
2. The joint ticket with Norikura Onsen gives you access to two mountains for barely more than a single-day pass - absolute steal if you're staying multiple days
3. Those 'green runs' at the top are steep green runs - perfect for building confidence but don't expect the mellow groomers you'd find at the base