As in many countries, city traffic in Japan may be congested and not much fun. But once you get into the countryside and the mountains, driving in Japan can be a real pleasure.

Gunma shares borders—and easy access—with Niigata to the north and Nagano to the west, opening up a range of ski and snowboard opportunities both inside and outside the prefecture.

Gifu is packed with great snow and great culture!

Snowboard through "ice monsters" in Yamagata!

There are 16 ski and snowboard resorts in Iwate Prefecture, most located on the western mountainous region near the border with Akita Prefecture.

Your guide to the top slopes in Fukushima!

Some of the best powder in Japan is only a day trip from Tokyo!

Nagano is easily accessible from Tokyo, offering an incredible range of Olympic-level slopes!