The ski season at Hakuba 47 and Goryu is a little longer than at other resorts in Hakuba Valley. For both resorts, the season begins in December - as a matter of fact, the lifts to the top section of the mountain can be the first to open in Hakuba Valley. The first few weeks of December can be a bit hit or miss, but by January winter is in full swing. The most powder days fall between January and February, which is peak season, and you’re going to see that in rising accommodation prices! During March you’ll enjoy plenty more bluebird days, but it’s a coin toss as to whether you’ll have fresh powder or more slush on the slopes. The tail end of the season in April brings with it spring conditions, with some white stuff left on the slopes but little in the way of fresh snow. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds then steer clear of Christmas, New Years and Chinese New Year (which usually falls between late January and mid-February and lasts about a week).