Where to Ski And Snowboard - Japan joins the Epic Pass

Japan joins the Epic Pass

6th March 2014, by Abi Butcher

The Epic Pass now includes five days' skiing and snowboarding in Niseko, Japan

Niseko in Japan has joined the Three Valleys in France, Verbier in Switzerland and 10 USA ski resorts in the Epic Pass.

For the 2014/15 season, Epic Pass holders will receive five free days skiing in the world-renowned powder skiing resort of Niseko and the first Asian partner for Vail Resorts.

Vail Resorts first introduced the Epic Pass in 2008 and re-launched it in 2011 — since which time it has gone from strength to strength. In addition to Niseko, Epic pass holders can ski and snowboard for five days in Verbier, Switzerland, five days the Three Valleys (when resort accommodation is booked) and the ski unlimited for the entire season in Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin and Eldora in Colorado, Canyons in Utah and Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in Lake Tahoe. In all, the Epic Pass encompasses 27 mountains in five countries — covering 28,830 skiable acres and 27,136 vertical feet in the US alone.

“The partnership between Vail Resorts and Niseko, Japan, provides access to a part of the world that is legendary for its endless powder and overall guest experience,” said Kirsten Lynch of Vail Resorts.

“It’s no wonder that we have Epic Pass holders in all 50 US states and in 80 countries around the world. They enjoy incredible resort experience and unmatched value.”

Vail Resorts is providing a reciprocal agreement to Niseko season pass holders — who will enjoy five free days’ skiing and riding at all of Vail Resorts’ ski areas.

The 2014/15 Epic Pass is now on sale — it costs $729 (£436 with today’s exchange rate) which includes a $49 reduction if bought before 13 March.

For more information on how to buy, visit epicpass.com

Editor Watts skied in Japan last year. Read his blogs here.