Japan’s pillow lines and powder bowls are calling, and there is no better time to book a ski trip to the land of the rising sun.
If you haven’t been on a ski vacation to Japan, this is the year to do it. The weak Yen and the Epic Pass Australia make exploring Japan’s resorts easier than ever before.
Japan is one of the snowiest places on the planet. Many resorts receive over 10m of fluffy, dry white powder snow a season. There’s a reason why professional skiers travel to Japan every year to film.
The best news is you may already have a lift ticket courtesy of Epic Pass Australia. With over 60 options globally, including some of Japan’s best resorts, the Epic Pass could be your gateway to endless powder skiing.
How can you use your Epic Pass Australia in Japan? Here’s everything you need to know.
What is the Epic Pass Australia
The Epic Australia Pass gives unrestricted access to Perisher, Falls Creek, Hotham, and other international ski destinations, including Japan.
With over 6 million acres of powder and incredible ski terrain, Japan is one of the premier destinations for winter sports enthusiasts.
As an Epic Australia Pass holder, you can enjoy free lift tickets at select resorts in Japan.
Whether you’re looking for memorable powder days, endless corduroy runs, or backcountry adventures, Japan has something for every type of skier or boarder.
Bring-A-Mate Tickets
The Bring-A-Mate lift tickets allow you to take a friend to the hill. Give away 6 x 1-day tickets to your mates.
Discounts
The pass also offers a variety of discounts. These vary by resort but include mountain dining discounts, access to first tracks, Creek and Hotham lodging deals, and Hotham in-resort benefits. Here is a list of some of the benefits you can expect. Be sure to check the Epic Pass Site for more details.
- 20% off private and group lessons
- 15% off accommodation
- 20% off equipment rental
Insurance
Epic coverage may cover a prorated refund for your season pass purchase in the event of certain qualifying events, including job loss, injury, and Resort Closure Events. Although not an alternative to ski insurance, it provides peace of mind.
Other Pass Options
- The Military Epic Pass is for Australia Defence Force (ADF), including members of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), Australian Army, and Royal Australian Air Force(RAAF) – active and reservists.
- Epic Australia Adaptive Pass is a season-long pass for guests with permanent disabilities.
Where To Use Your Australian Epic Pass
The Epic Australia Pass gives you access to world-class resorts in Australia, Japan, North America, and Europe.
Australian Ski Resorts
You get unlimited access to Australia’s Perisher, Falls Creek, and Hotham resorts with your pass. With over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain and 47 lifts combined, these three resorts offer a variety of experiences for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. The Epic Pass Australia gives a 20% discount off of lessons at all three resorts, 6 bring-a-mate tickets, and the following:
- Perisher Benefits: 15% off accommodation at The Station in Jindabyne
- Falls Creek Benefits: 20% ski hire discount
- Hotham Benefits: 20% ski hire discount
Japan Ski Resorts
The Epic Australia Pass gives 5 days of unrestricted access to Hakuba Valley and Rusutsu.
Hakuba Valley
With over 9 resorts, 200+ runs, and 11 meters of snow, the Hakuba Valley is one of Japan’s most popular ski destinations. The variety of resorts offers some of the best possible experiences regardless of your on-snow abilities. First-timers will enjoy the mellow beginner slopes and readily available English Ski Lessons. At the same time, expert skiers and backcountry enthusiasts will be awed by some of the best powder skiing in the world. There is a reason why Hakuba is one of the most popular stops for athletes for events like the Free Ride World Tour.
Hakuba has a vibrant nightlife and a variety of other activities, including snow monkey tours, sake brewery tours, and traditional tea ceremony opportunities that will have guests wanting to come back for more.
Rusutsu Ski Resort
Found in Hokkaido, Rusutsu resort has long been a top powder destination for skiers and borders. Although not as well-known as Niseko, Rusutsu is an epic resort with various skiing and snowboarding terrain.
The resort offers over 3,000 acres of freeride terrain and is known for some of the best tree skiing in Japan. Rusutsu also has a terrain park, great restaurants, and friendly locals who make every visit unforgettable. Rusutsu is also a family-friendly destination with many activities for all ages. From dog sledding to ice fishing, Rusutsu has something for everyone.
North American Resorts
The Epic Australia Pass gives you access to some of the most renowned resorts in North America. From the iconic slopes of Vail and Whistler Blackcomb to the stunning scenery of Park City, there’s no shortage of incredible ski destinations.
10 combined non-consecutive lift days (excluding peak days)
The Australian Epic Pass includes 10 combined non-consecutive days at Vail, Beaver Creek, and Whistler Blackcomb.
Unlimited lift days, excluding peak restriction dates
With the Epic Australia Pass, you can also enjoy unlimited access to several other top-tier resorts across North America (excluding peak season).
Breckenridge and Keystone in Colorado offer spectacular skiing conditions and vibrant après-ski scenes. Park City in Utah, the largest ski area in the U.S., is renowned for its varied terrain and consistent snowfall.
Over in California, your pass allows visits to the picturesque resorts of Heavenly, Northstar, and Kirkwood, all known for their breathtaking views, extensive ski runs, and family-friendly facilities.
On the East Coast, Stowe in Vermont prides itself on its high-quality terrain and charming New England village.
5 Days Combined at RCR Resorts
With the Epic Australia Pass, you can enjoy 5 combined days at RCR Resorts in Canada, Alberta, and British Columbia. Days do not have to be consecutive, allowing you to plan your visits at your convenience.
The pass includes access to the exhilarating slopes of Nakiska in Alberta and three distinct resorts in British Columbia: Fernie Alpine Resort, Kimberley Alpine Resort, and Kicking Horse Mountain Resort.
Over on the East Coast, you can visit Mont-Sainte-Anne and Stoneham Mountain Resort in Quebec for a unique skiing experience.
European Ski Resorts
From November/December 2024, explore a variety of world-class resorts in Europe with the Australian Epic Pass.
- Andermatt-Sedrun-Disentis: 5 days of lift access for the 2024/25 season. There are no restricted peak dates; days do not have to be consecutive.
- Skirama Dolomiti: 7 days of lift access for the 2024/25 season. There are no restricted peak dates; days do not have to be consecutive.
- Les 3 Vallées: 7 days of lift access for the 2024/25 season. No specified peak dates; days must be consecutive.
- Ski Arlberg: 3 days of lift access for the 2024/25 season. There are no restricted peak dates; days must be consecutive, and lodging purchase is required.
With over 9 resorts, 200+ runs, and 11 meters of snow, the Hakuba Valley is one of Japan’s most popular ski destinations. The variety of resorts offers some of the best possible experiences regardless of your on-snow abilities. First-timers will enjoy the mellow beginner slopes and readily available English Ski Lessons. At the same time, expert skiers and backcountry enthusiasts will be awed by some of the best powder skiing in the world. There is a reason why Hakuba is one of the most popular stops for athletes for events like the Free Ride World Tour.
Hakuba has a vibrant nightlife and a variety of other activities, including snow monkey tours, sake brewery tours, and traditional tea ceremony opportunities that will have guests wanting to come back for more.
How to Use Your Pass in Japan
Using your Epic Pass in Japan is incredibly easy.
Using the Epic Pass in Hakuba
Epic Pass holders can present their valid Epic Pass card and photo ID to the lift cashier at any of Hakuba Valley’s resorts to redeem a five-day lift ticket regardless of holiday restrictions.
The 5-day Hakuba Valley lift ticket gives unlimited access to all of Hakuba’s 9 resorts. To use the lift ticket, scan it at any lift gate. The 5 days start as soon as the pass is scanned.
The lift pass also gives you free use of the Hakuba Valley shuttles. Using the pass on the shuttle will start the clock on your 5-day pass.
Using the Epic Australia Pass in Rusutsu
Like Hakuba, to receive your unrestricted access 5-day lift pass from Rusutsu, bring your valid season pass card and a valid photo ID to a Rusutsu Resort ticket window.
Customers who have not yet received their season Epic Pass card but have completed the Vail Resorts liability waiver can show a copy of their confirmation email and a valid photo ID.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re an expert skier looking to explore the backcountry or a family looking for a fun winter vacation, the Epic Australia Pass is the perfect way to access some of Japan’s best ski resorts. So why wait? Book your trip now!
See you on the slopes!
About Us
Hakuba Ski Concierge is a ski school in Hakuba, Japan, offering high-end personalized lessons to small groups and private individuals. We provide great lessons with instructors who go beyond to ensure you have the best experience possible.
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FAQ
Can I use my epic pass in Australia?
You can use your Epic Pass at Australia’s Perisher, Falls Creek, and Hotham ski resorts.
Is The Epic Australia pass worth it
Hey, no one can answer this for you. The fact is, this is a personal decision. As an avid skier who skis 100+ days a season a year, it’s worth it, but your situation is different than mine, and you need to run the numbers and decide whether you’re willing to spend the money versus the skiing rewards. Your call…
How much is an Epic Australia Pass?
For the 2022/2023 season, the Epic Australia Pass is AUD 899.
How long will Epic pass be 20% off?
The Epic Australia Pass promotion ends on January 31st, 2022. After this date, the Epic Australia Pass will return to its regular price of AUD 899. So take advantage of this limited-time offer and purchase your Epic Australia Pass today!
Why Is Japan very famous?
Japan is famous for several reasons. It is known for its history, pop culture, and unique cuisine, as well as its vibrant cities and natural landscapes. It can be a mind-bending, beautiful experience that will leave you in shock and awe.
Is it hard to go to Japan?
To go to Japan, you will need to take a flight. Japan has several major international airports, including Narita and Haneda in Tokyo and Kansai International Airport in Osaka. Getting to Japan is not particularly challenging, but you must plan to ensure that you have all the necessary travel documents and ready for your trip.