No. of ski resorts in Japan slide 40% from 1999 peak, hit record low

TOKYO - The number of operational ski resorts in Japan in 2025 fell to a record low, 40 percent down from the peak in 1999, due to a lack of snow caused by climate change and despite growing demand from overseas tourists, according to an industry group.

There were 417 locations operating last year, down from 698 in 1999, with aging facilities and a slump in domestic tourism also hitting the industry despite some resorts introducing perks to attract more visitors, said the Japan Funicular Transport Association, which provides information on ski resorts across the country.