What's Happening?
U.S.-based ski passes, including Ikon and Indy, have expanded their offerings to include ski areas in Japan, China, and South Korea for the 2025-26 season. Japan's ski resorts are particularly attractive due to their high snowfall, with some areas averaging over 800 inches annually. This expansion reflects a growing interest in international skiing experiences among American skiers. The inclusion of Japanese resorts offers skiers access to unique cultural experiences and diverse skiing conditions, despite challenges such as smaller ski areas and bureaucratic permitting.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of U.S. ski passes to include international resorts signifies a shift in the ski industry towards global integration. This move provides American skiers with more
diverse options and encourages cross-cultural exchanges. The high snowfall in Japan offers a unique appeal, potentially increasing tourism and economic activity in these regions. Additionally, this expansion may influence the development of ski infrastructure and policies in the host countries, fostering international collaboration in the ski industry.
