Aussie Winter Travel to Japan’s Olympic City Nagano Nearly Doubles in 2024: Know about the latest updates

Published on October 14, 2024

Australia has become the top international long-haul market for Nagano, Japan, as Aussie skiers and snowboarders continue to flock to the region. In the first five months of 2024, the number of Australians traveling to Nagano increased by over 90% compared to the same period in 2023.

Key Figures
Aussies accounted for 100,630 overnight stays between January and May 2024, a significant rise from the 52,700 recorded during the same months in 2023.

Nagano, located approximately 250 km northwest of Tokyo, is renowned for its world-class winter resorts, catering to all levels of skiers and snowboarders. The peak season typically runs from late December to early March, with January and February offering the best powder conditions. Higher elevations can extend the ski season into April, with heli-skiing options available during March and April.

Adventure Awaits in Nagano
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the Hakuba Valley offers activities such as snowshoeing, ice climbing, and snowmobiling. For those seeking relaxation, Nagano is famous for its traditional hot springs and cultural sites, including Zenko-ji Temple, Matsumoto Castle, and the renowned Jigokudani Monkey Park, where visitors can watch snow monkeys bathe in hot springs.

Throughout the winter, Nagano hosts several special events, such as the Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival and various fireworks displays, illuminating the snowy mountains during the season.

Australian Travelers Lead the Way
Helen Wong, Australian representative of the Nagano Tourism Organization, highlighted the remarkable growth in Australian visitation, describing it as “an impressive leap” that reflects the region’s popularity among Aussies seeking a Northern Hemisphere winter escape.