Looks like Jetstar has a Birthday Sale on, not sure if many great deals for Japan yet but i saw can get return for about $800 in February which is pretty good. ANA also doing some good deals for then too.
Found this great little clip on a trip some guys did to Japan last year. They mention the amazing balance between a rich tradition and a futuristic present that Japan does so well. Nozawa Onsen is similar in many ways with the Traditional Shrines, Onsen Houses and Ryokans scattered about the village. Then the back drop of the modern ski lifts and gondolas taking the skiers up to the top of Mt Kenashi to enjoy the amazing snow conditions on offer in Nozawa