Imagine carving through clouds of featherlight snow, where every turn feels like gliding through silk. That’s Japow—a skier’s nirvana, and Japan’s ultimate winter gift.

 But the magic doesn’t stop at the slopes. Soak tired legs in soothing onsens framed by snow-capped peaks and refuel with steaming bowls of soba or a bubbling hot pot, all while the lively yet serene ambiance of Japanese ski villages wraps around you.

La Niña–mention this term to any experienced skier and snowboarder, and watch as their eyes glow in uncontrollable excitement. Think you know everything about La Niña? What exactly is La Niña and why should you care? Read on to find out 5 things every skier or snowboarder needs to know about the phenomenon La Nina.