[Sangetsu]

Nagano is probably the most popular place for skiing and snowboarding. It has Olympic quality winter sports facilities, and it is not too far from Tokyo.

Hokkaido is a wonderful place, but country life can become rather boring in time, especially when you are a foreigner and do not speak the language well.

Hiking is popular throughout Japan as there are mountains and countryside throughout the country. I go hiking 3 or 4 times a week in the nearby mountains, it's great exercise, and I love the scenery.