10 ski properties for sale in Nagano: Japan’s sleeping giant

Nagano: underrated ski resort gems with unmatched access and value

While Niseko continues to dominate international headlines, Nagano is quietly solidifying its reputation as one of Japan’s most accessible and value-packed resort destinations. Home to the last Winter Olympics hosted in Japan, Nagano boasts well-established infrastructure, stunning alpine scenery, and a growing real estate market that presents unique opportunities for investors.

Seamless Access from Tokyo. One of Nagano’s strongest advantages is its proximity to Tokyo. Thanks to the Shinkansen, reaching the slopes from the capital is a breeze—just a 90-minute bullet train ride to Nagano Station, with direct connections to major resort areas like Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, and Madarao. This ease of access makes Nagano a highly attractive option for weekend skiers and international visitors looking for a ski experience without the need for domestic flights or long-haul transfers.

A Market with Value. Compared to Niseko and other top Hokkaido resorts, property prices in Nagano remain relatively affordable, offering entry-level options for investors. “Nagano resorts continue to see strong demand on Uchi,” says Chris Pickering, founder of Japan’s leading resort real estate platform. “Despite having fewer listings overall, the level of interest we receive suggests people are recognizing the untapped potential. Prices are often lower than comparable properties in Niseko, yet the infrastructure and skiing experience remain top-tier.”

This affordability has translated into increased transactions across the region, with areas like Madarao and Hakuba experiencing a surge in property sales over the past 12–18 months. Investors are taking note, particularly as Nagano’s resorts ramp up modernization efforts, such as Nozawa Onsen’s new gondola and strategic investments in Madarao.

Breathtaking Alpine Scenery. What truly sets Nagano apart is its spectacular natural landscape. Nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, the region offers dramatic mountain vistas to go with the famous deep powder snow, and a quintessential alpine atmosphere that rivals the world’s top ski destinations. Beyond skiing, Nagano’s year-round appeal—with hiking, hot springs, and cultural heritage sites—ensures that property investments can yield returns beyond just the winter months.

As interest in Japanese resort real estate continues to grow, Nagano stands out as an accessible, scenic, and high-potential alternative to more established international hotspots. The tide is rising, and those looking for value and convenience in Japan’s ski market would do well to keep Nagano firmly on their radar.

Check out all the current Nagano listings here or see Chris’ top ten picks below.

Ski In Ski Out Land Norikura

Location: Norikura Resort
Price: 39m JPY ($260k USD)

Ski In Ski Out Land Norikura. View more images

This exceptional 1,029 sqm plot in Norikura offers unparalleled ski-in, ski-out access on both sides, making it a rare and valuable find. Ideal for a luxury chalet, the flat building platform and proximity to world-class slopes provide an unparalleled opportunity for ski enthusiasts.

6 Bedroom Madarao Resort Home

Location: Madarao Resort
Price: $750k USD

6 Bedroom Madarao Resort Home. View more images

This beautiful 6-bedroom, 5-bathroom home spans over 305 sqm and sits on a large plot in Madarao Resort, offering stunning mountain views. With apartment-style residences and modern renovations, it provides a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of the European Alps, just 2 hours from Tokyo.

Woodside Chalet – Misorano

Location: Hakuba Resort
Price: 80m JPY ($540k USD)

Woodside Chalet – Misorano. View more images

This charming 2-storey chalet and cabin in the scenic Misorano area offers ample space and versatile usage. Set on a spacious 527 sqm lot, it features a 4-bedroom home and a separate cabin, providing easy access to Hakuba Valley’s ski resorts within a 5-10 minute drive.

Nozawa Vista Land

Location: Nozawa Onsen
Price: 48m JPY ($320k USD)

Nozawa Vista Land. View more images

Perched on the serene slopes above Nozawa Onsen, this 829 sqm plot offers unobstructed panoramic views stretching to Iiyama Village. It’s the perfect canvas for a contemporary chalet or cozy alpine retreat, blending tranquility with accessibility to the vibrant village renowned for its hot springs and culture.

Madarao Tangram Studio Apartment

Location: Tangram Resort
Price: 9m JPY ($60k USD)

Madarao Tangram Studio Apartment. View more images

This cosy 25 sqm studio apartment in Madarao Tangram Resort offers immediate access to ski slopes, making it a perfect retreat for winter sports enthusiasts. With its compact design and strategic location, it serves as an ideal investment for those seeking a hassle-free mountain getaway.

Latitude 36 Echoland

Location: Hakuba Resort
Price: 85m JPY ($580k USD)

Latitude 36 – Echoland. View more images

This modern 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home spans 105 sqm and is situated on a 389 sqm plot in the tranquil Misorano area, just a short walk from Echoland’s vibrant restaurants, cafes, and bars. Built in 2018, the property comfortably sleeps six and features a dedicated dry room for winter gear, making it ideal for both personal use and rental opportunities.

Central Madarao Lodge

Location: Madarao
Price: 72m JPY ($490k USD)

Central Madarao Ski Resort Lodge. View more images

Conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from Madarao Kogen Ski Lifts, this lodge features 14 rooms and a self-contained owner’s apartment. With a fully equipped commercial kitchen and dining capacity for up to 70 guests, it’s an excellent investment in a high-demand area.

Casa Bianca Goryu

Location: Hakuba Resort
Price: 240m JPY ($1.6m USD)

Casa Bianca Goryu. View more images

This property offers a unique opportunity to own a charming residence in the sought-after Goryu area, known for its excellent ski facilities and vibrant community. With its traditional design and modern amenities, Casa Bianca Goryu provides a cozy retreat for those looking to enjoy the best of Hakuba’s alpine lifestyle.

Shiki at Tangram

Location: Tangram Resort
Price: 110m JPY ($740k USD)

Shiki at Tangram. View more images

Shiki at Tangram is a boutique 4-bedroom ski residence nestled within the picturesque Tangram Ski Resort, seamlessly adjoining Madarao Ski Resort. Inspired by Edo period design and built using traditional Japanese carpentry techniques, it blends ancient aesthetics with modern fixtures for a high-class ski home experience.

Multi Unit Property in Hakuba

Location: Hakuba Resort
Price: 47.5m JPY ($320k USD)

Multi Unit Property in Hakuba. View more images

This unique property in Hakuba’s Moriue area comprises three independent units, each featuring two traditional tatami bedrooms and one bathroom. Set in a tranquil mountain community, it’s a prime opportunity for customization, offering proximity to renowned ski resorts and local amenities.

Head to uchijapan.com to find your dream home in Japan’s best ski resorts now!