According to one prevalent theory, the rich and fascinating history of skiing in Japan can be traced back to the year 1895, which is approximately 130 years ago. It is said that a soldier named Toshitane Matsukawa, who served in the Japanese army, traveled to Scandinavia and was captivated by the local culture and the winter sports practiced there. Upon his return to Japan, he brought back with him a pair of skis, which marked the very beginning of skiing as a recreational activity in the country. This moment is often seen as a pivotal point in the introduction of skiing to Japan, laying the groundwork for what would become a beloved winter pastime.

長岡外史 – 投稿者自身による著作物, CC 表示-継承 3.0, リンクによる

About 75% of Japan’s land area is covered by mountains and hilly terrain.

Since that historic moment, the number of skiers in Japan has gradually but steadily increased over the years. The country’s diverse and mountainous terrain, coupled with its generous snowfall, has made skiing an appealing and accessible pastime for many. As more people discovered the joy of gliding down snowy slopes, ski resorts began to pop up across the nation, catering to both beginners and seasoned skiers alike. This growth in popularity has transformed skiing from a niche activity into a mainstream sport, enjoyed by families, friends, and individuals seeking adventure during the winter months.

The peak of skiing’s popularity in Japan occurred during the bubble economy of the 1980s. During this vibrant period, the number of skiers reached its highest level, leading to a surge in demand for ski resorts. Popular ski destinations experienced overwhelming crowds, with many skiers waiting in long lines for up to two hours just to access the lifts. This frenzy not only reflected the enthusiasm for skiing but also the economic prosperity of the time, where leisure activities were highly valued. The atmosphere at these ski resorts was electric, filled with laughter, excitement, and the joy of winter sports, making it a memorable era for skiing enthusiasts.

Many ski resorts in Japan are not just about skiing; they also offer a unique blend of winter sports and relaxation. A significant number of these resorts feature hot spring facilities, allowing guests to unwind and rejuvenate after a long day on the slopes. The experience of soaking in a steaming hot spring while surrounded by the beautiful snowy landscape is an integral part of the Japanese winter experience. After skiing, many people look forward to warming up in the hot springs, and some even venture out to enjoy the vibrant nightlife at nearby hot spring resorts. During these evenings, visitors can savor a variety of local delicacies that reflect the unique culinary traditions of each region, often accompanied by a glass of fine sake (Japanese rice wine). This combination of skiing, hot springs, and regional cuisine creates a harmonious winter retreat that attracts visitors from all over the country.

Japan is home to numerous ski resorts, particularly in regions known for their exceptional winter conditions. Hokkaido and Nagano Prefecture, both of which have hosted the Winter Olympics, are particularly famous for their world-class skiing facilities. These areas, along with the Tohoku and Jo-shinetsu regions, are bustling with activity during the winter months. Ski enthusiasts flock to these resorts to enjoy the pristine snow and well-maintained slopes. The atmosphere is lively, with families and friends coming together to create unforgettable memories on the slopes, making Japan a premier destination for winter sports lovers.

Baby with koinobori

In Japan, on Children’s Day, May 5, it is customary to decorate the eaves of houses with boys with carp streamers.

Although the name is “Children’s Day,” March 3, when peach blossoms bloom, celebrates “Momo-no Sekku” for girls, so it is said that May of the lunar calendar, which is the noon month of the twelve Chinese zodiac signs, became “Tango-no Sekku,” an event to celebrate boys’ growth.

Originally, “banners,” a type of flag, were erected, but in the Edo period (1603-1867), merchants began to display carp-shaped banners based on a Chinese legend that “a carp that climbs a waterfall becomes a dragon,” and this event is said to have become popular.

By from Portland, Oregon, EE UU – Boy’s Festival – Fish Kites, CC BY 2.0, Link

Initially, only black carp were used, but red scarlet carp were added to represent children. Later, the red carp came to represent the mother carp, the blue carp was added to represent the children’s carp, and for the first Tokyo Olympic Game in 1964, the green and yellow and other sibling carp were also created.

Today, however, with the increase in the number of high-rise houses, the sight of carp dancing in the blue sky has become less common in large cities such as Tokyo, but in the countryside, the custom of decorating carp streamers of various kinds remains, delighting the eyes of tourists.

koinobori at Tsuruudagawa (Gunma Pref.)

100 Best Japanese Songs

▼Another ‘Koinobori’ song.

Koinobori / irakanonamito (1913) - 鯉のぼり

"Iraka no nami to kumo no nami" Discover good old-fashioned Japan through lyrics and images: Roman readings, English translations, and reflections. Take a cultural journey through the melodies of "Doyo Shoka" (Children's Songs).

douyo-shouka.com

2025.05.02