When most people talk about going skiing in Japan, thoughts immediately turn to the resorts at Niseko near Sapporo on the northern island of Hokkaido. Once little-known powder destinations, these ski fields are now so popular among Australian skiers, they've become known as Little Australia.

But if you fancy some excellent powder and interesting culture, then the south island of Japan is the place to go, and right about now is the perfect time. There are many resorts to choose from, each with a unique feel but still remaining very much traditional in nature.

For a ski holiday, Japan is the ultimate destination for many reasons. Firstly, the flight is around 10 hours from Australia and you won't have any jet lag to contend with as there's only one or two hours' time difference, depending on daylight savings. And, upon arrival at the airport, you can be assured of simple city transfers with Japan's efficient rail network.

Shiga Kogen

The trip from Tokyo's Narita Airport to Shiga Kogen can be made with minimal fuss for the diehard speedsters, or at a glacial pace if desired. On a clear day you can even see Mt Fuji in the distance. Stop off at Nagano city on the way and visit the 1400-year-old Kogi Zen Temple, which houses the oldest image of Buddha in Japan.

Nagano and Shiga Kogen hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and it's the largest ski resort in Japan. But trail maps can be found at the top of all major chairs and gondolas, so don't be daunted by its size.

With 21 ski runs on the 2000 metre-high mountains all interlinked either by lifts or bus, you'll find runs for all levels of skier or snowboarder. There are extensive family zones as well, and children can learn to ski safely at the Maruike Kids Park. Not too far away are the Shiga Kogen monkeys, which are famous for spending their days soaking in the natural hot springs (onsens) while grooming each other and washing fruit.

This is one of the only places you'll see this ritual. Keep your balcony doors shut, however, as the monkeys have been known on occasion to come knocking on your door!

Tired apres-ski bodies should soothe their weary muscles at the onsens found in most hotels. If travelling with little ones, bring the laptop and some DVDs to keep them entertained as there's no English speaking TV on offer here.

Where to stay: The Sunroute Hotel has both Western and Japanese-style rooms, two restaurants, hot springs and a spa, as well as a children's playroom with video games. To book online, visit www.sunroute.jp/SunrouteTopHLE.html

Alts Bandai

If you're short on time in Japan, then Alts Bandai is the mountain resort for you. Situated just three hours from Tokyo, it's an easy day trip from the city on Japan's super- efficient rail system. If possible, try to stay for a couple of days - the panoramic views over Lake Inawashiro are wonderful.

While offering both ski and snowboarding, Alts Bandai is ‘the place' for snowboarders. With six terrain parks, the mountain plays host to two of the biggest snowboarding competitions every year.

Alts Bandai has an extensive snow academy for all levels, and the instructors all speak English. There's also a unique freestyle school for those who want to learn or hone their park and freestyle techniques.

The kids' ski school has activities both indoors and on the slopes. And from the start of the 2008 ski season, Alts Bandai will have a new village, complete with retail stores, dining restaurants, hot spring facilities and bars, bringing it more into line with the offerings of the Hokkaido resorts, but without losing that intimate resort charm.

Where to stay: Mt Bandai Hotel has ski in-ski out access to the slopes. It also has an indoor pool, jacuzzi, book cafe, a good choice of restaurants and a lobby bar with wireless access. To make a booking visit www.alts.co.jp

Tokyo

Why not finish off your ski trip with a stay in the capital city? Like in the movie Lost in Translation, the architecture, bright lights and shopping make Tokyo an amazing sight. It's overwhelmingly full of life, and the hustle and bustle all flows somehow in the most amazingly ordered way. Make sure you're armed with a knowledgeable city guide because you don't
want to miss a beat here.

You can book yourself on a JTB Sunrise tour - one-day tours to magical places such as Mt Fuji or Kegon Falls - all accompanied by English-speaking tour guides.

As time was limited, we took the Tokyo Cityrama Morning Tour, covering the Meiji Shrine, Imperial Palace East Garden, Sensoji Temple and the Ginza shopping district - perfect for appreciating Japan's history without sacrificing precious shopping time!

To go: To obtain your Japan Rail pass or organise a tour, visit JTB Australia at www.japantravel.com.au, or call 1300 739 330. For more information on Japan, visit The Japan National Tourist Organization on www.jnto.go.jp