Japan’s Northern Alps are being positioned as an alternative to the country’s established ski hubs this winter, with KAI Okuhida in Gifu Prefecture releasing a programme for January to March 2027 that combines smaller ski areas, guided transport to Shirakawa-go and seasonal experiences built around hot springs, regional food and craft.
The ryokan is part of KAI, the onsen ryokan brand of Hoshino Resorts, and sits in the Okuhida Onsen area, known for its supply of natural hot spring water. Much of the winter offer is designed around removing the need for guests to drive on mountain roads covered in snow.
From 4 January to 31 March 2027, guests can take a shuttle from the ryokan to Takayama Station and to the UNESCO World Heritage village of Shirakawa-go. Advance booking is required, and services may change or be cancelled depending on snow conditions. From 11 January to 28 February, the ryokan will run its first Frozen Waterfall Bus Tour. The guided trip visits two ice formations reaching up to 15 metres high: Aodaru at Fukuji Onsen and the illuminated Kanekoori at Shin-Hirayu Onsen, which includes a tunnel lit by LEDs. The tour ends at the ryokan’s courtyard footbath with secchū mizore-zake, a supercooled sake that turns to slush when poured.
From 10 January to 10 February, the ryokan stages its snow light show for a third year. Guests are seated inside a kamakura snow hut and served Hida beef with hot whisky tea, made with Japanese black tea fermented using hot spring water, while the property’s own Hida-dama lamps light the surrounding snow.
For skiers, Hirayu Onsen Ski Resort is five minutes by car from the ryokan at an altitude of 1,300 metres and is promoted as a less crowded option than Japan’s larger resorts. Guided backcountry tours are also offered for more experienced skiers.
Accommodation includes the Hida MOKU Room, which uses locally sourced timber and furniture made by Hida artisans, with a headboard inspired by mageki, a regional craft in which wood is steamed and bent into curves. Select rooms have a private open air hot spring bath. Dinner is served as kaiseki featuring Hida beef.
For agents, the programme suits clients who already know Japan’s main ski resorts and want a winter itinerary weighted towards onsen, food and culture, or travellers who want a few days on the snow without the need for a hire car.