Areas / Western Japan
Daisen 大山
Western Japan's great ski mountain — a lone volcano above the Sea of Japan with tree skiing, steep gullies and ocean views.
- Prefecture
- Tottori
- Season
- Dec – Mar
- Level
- Advanced
- Nearest airport
- Yonago (YGJ), about 40 min by car
Resort accessTree skiingGulliesVolcano
Daisen (1,729 m) rises on its own above the Sea of Japan in Tottori, and it catches heavy snowfall from winter storms. It is the most significant backcountry mountain in western Japan, and very few international skiers know about it.
The ski resort gives access to beech forests and to the steep, eroded gullies of the upper volcano. On good days you ski with views of the ocean. The snow is heavier than in Hokkaido, and conditions change quickly with the weather.
Why a guide: Daisen’s upper mountain has cliffs and steep gullies, and the maritime snowpack changes fast. A guide knows which lines are safe on which day.
Highlights
- Ski with views of the Sea of Japan
- Beech forests and steep gullies on a standalone volcano
- The best backcountry option in western Japan
- Combine with a trip to Kyoto, Hiroshima or the San'in coast
Main hazards
- Heavy, wet maritime snow and rapid changes in stability
- Steep, eroded gullies and cliffs on the upper mountain
- Strong winds and icing up high
Conditions change daily. Check the latest avalanche and weather information, carry beacon, probe and shovel, and ski with a qualified guide if you don't know the area. See our safety guide.
Where to stay
Ski Daisen with a certified local guide
Tell us your dates, group and ability. We match you with a certified guide who knows the terrain and today's snow, and send you a quote. Requesting is free and there's no obligation to book.
Request a guide