Where to Ski in Hokkaido: Best Ski Resorts in Hokkaido to Check Out
Hokkaido is the place to ski in Japan, and rightly so. Come winter every year, this Northernmost region of Japan transforms into a spectacular snowy wonderland. Due to its altitude, skiers and snowboarders can look forward to some fabulous pow (short-form slang for ‘powder’) — with great views to boot. In fact, the region receives around 14 to 18 metres of snow every year. Imagine that!
Not sure which ski resort to test your skills at? Here are our top favourites.
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1. Niseko Ski Resort
Photo credit: Niseko Tourism on Facebook
Travelling time from Sapporo: 2 hours by bus
Niseko is probably known as Hokkaido’s ski central, comprising four interlinked resorts: Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village, and Annupuri.
The Grand Hirafu area is the largest and most popular of them all, boasting a 5,600-metre-long slope. Hanazono is built for intermediate skiers, with advanced skiers faring better in the Grand Hirafu area. Niseko Village, on the other hand, is the place for novices, with gentler terrains and inclines. If you’d like to give backcountry skiing a try, head for Annupuri — which is also popular for night skiing.
Image credit: Niseko Tourism on Facebook
The best part? You don’t even need to bring any equipment to the resort, with everything readily available for rent. Other than skiing or snowboarding, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Yotei, soak in the onsen; and even go snowmobiling, snow rafting, or snowshoeing. The Hirafu Village is one of the area’s highlights, offering a range of shops, restaurants, and bars.
#KlookTip: Want to sign up for a lesson? There are both group and private ones available, but we recommend taking a private ski or snowboard session if it’s your first time at the slopes. P.S. Don’t worry about the language barrier, as all the staff and instructors are extremely fluent in English. And yes, there’s a Mandarin option too!
How to get there: Take a 2-hour shuttle bus from Sapporo; for ease of travel, opt for this round-trip transport + ski lift bundle
2. Hoshino Resorts Tomamu
Image credit: Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, Japan on Facebook
Travelling time from Sapporo: 3 hours by bus
Who’s up for a family holiday? Bring the entire gang to the family-friendly Hoshino Resorts Tomamu. There are quite a number of gentler slopes here, making it great for the young ones looking to pick up the ropes. That’s not to say that the resort isn’t suitable for the experts: it also has expert runs, plus an exhilarating terrain park.
Image credit: Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, Japan on Facebook
Parents will also be glad to know that the resort has a dedicated kids’ park, complete with a snow playground, a sledding area, and a kids’ ski school. From 10 December 2024 to 14 March 2025 (tentative), don’t miss out on the Ice Village too. Wander amongst ice and snow domes that house a shop, bar, workshop, church, and more. There's even an Ice Ramen Restaurant and Ice Hotel!
#KlookTip: There are lessons available for those who prefer a little guidance; however, there are unfortunately not many English-speaking instructors onsite. We recommend calling or emailing the resort ahead of your visit to book your lesson in advance (especially if you want a private session), and request for one. Otherwise, this multilingual group class might be just up your alley.
How to get there: Take a 3-hour shuttle bus from Sapporo; for ease of travel, opt for this round-trip transport + ski lift bundle
3. Furano Ski Resort
Image credit: 富良野スキー場 【プリンススノーリゾート】Furano Ski Area, Prince Grand Resort Furano on Facebook
Travelling time from Sapporo: 2 hours 22 minutes by train and taxi
Furano Ski Resort might be smaller in scale, but it definitely doesn’t compromise on snow quality. One of its major draws is its magnificent view of the Daisetsu mountain range, made even better by clear skies and stable weather - pretty much most of the time.
In fact, Furano is said to have some of Japan’s driest and lightest powder. Take on the challenge of conquering the slopes by yourself or, if you prefer, participate in a lesson conducted in either English or Mandarin.
Image credit: 富良野スキー場 【プリンススノーリゾート】Furano Ski Area, Prince Grand Resort Furano on Facebook
Home to 28 ski courses, the resort is split into two zones: Furano and Kitanomine. Skiers can especially enjoy long groomed runs, where you can enjoy accelerated speeds for an extended period of time. Even better: Furano Ski Resort is relatively quieter, i.e. without the crowds of Niseko, making it perfect for those looking to enjoy some serenity.
P.S. Don’t miss out on Furano Kan Kan Mura, an exciting fantasy village made out of snow and ice. Marvel at snow sculptures, go snow tubing, experience a night flight in a hot air balloon, and have a drink at the chilly Ice Café.
How to get there: Take a 53-minute shinkansen to Takikawa station from Sapporo station, change to a 1-hour-9-minute train via the JR Nemuro Main Line to Furano station, followed by a 20-minute taxi ride to the resort (or, to make things easier for yourself, check out this 2-5 day(s) tour from Sapporo)
4. Mt. Moiwa Ski Resort
Travelling time from Sapporo: 20 minutes by car
The closest resort to Sapporo, Mt. Moiwa Ski Resort can be reached in just 20 minutes by car. Talk about convenience! Interestingly, it’s a ski-only resort, and snowboarding is prohibited.
Skiers can be spoiled for choice with ten different ski courses that vary in difficulty. The ‘Sightseeing Road course’ is especially popular among novices, as it sports a panoramic view of Sapporo city throughout.
Mt. Moiwa Ski Resort conducts engaging lessons for both adults and children alike. For the best bang for your buck, why not consider this 1-day skiing experience from Sapporo? It basically does all the planning homework for you, and includes round-trip bus transportation, a 5-hour lift ticket, a 30-minute lesson, as well as the option to rent ski equipment and suits. Ready, set, ski!
#KlookTip: Don’t be too quick to leave. The resort is especially popular for night skiing, as Mt. Moiwa is considered to be one of Japan’s best night views.
How to get there: Take a 20-minute car ride to the resort from central Sapporo
5. Kiroro Ski Resort
Photo credit: Kiroro Resort on Facebook
Travelling time from Sapporo: 1 hour 26 minutes by train and bus
If you’re going after the pow, Kiroro Ski Resort might very well be your best bet. Sprawling across two mountains, the resort offers four ski areas that have some of Hokkaido’s deepest snow. Enjoy a variety of groomed and ungroomed ski slopes, with 14 tree run areas for backcountry skiing — so knock yourself out!
Photo credit: Kiroro Resort on Facebook
Kiroro Ski Resort is extremely family-friendly in nature, offering many non-ski activities. Go snow rafting, snow-shoeing, snowmobiling, or soak in the onsen. The winter kids’ park is always a hit with the little ones too, along with the indoor Game Park Granship area. If the parents need a break — we feel you! —, there’s also a kids club for ages 2 to 7 (advanced booking required).
Due to its popularity, Kiroro Ski Resort can get a tad crowded; skip the lines with this lift ticket, plus the option to rent ski wear and/or equipment.
How to get there: Take a 26-minute train via the JR Rapid Airport Line to Otaru-Chikko station from Sapporo station, followed by a 1-hour bus to the resort
6. Rusutsu Ski Resort
Image credit: Rusutsu Resort (Official) on Facebook
Travelling time from Sapporo: 2 hours by bus
Did you know that Rusutsu Ski Resort was awarded the accolade of Japan’s best ski resort in the 2021 World Ski Resorts awards? Cool, huh! Spread across three mountains, Rusutsu is reputed for its abundance of snow. It has something for everyone: pros will be delighted with a range of challenging ski courses, whilst beginners can learn the ropes on well-maintained slopes.
We meant it when we said the resort has everything: groomed runs, tree zones, backcountry trails, and more. Love the feeling of skiing long distances? The longest run at the resort is a nice 3.5 kilometres long. That’s not all: the onsite school also has instructors who are fluent in English. A private ski or snowboard lesson, anyone?
Image credit: Rusutsu Resort (Official) on Facebook
Families will love the Crayon Shin-chan Hiroba area, where kids can try tubing and snow-biking. A kids club (or daycare) is also available from 8.30am to 6.30pm (advanced booking required) — all you parents who want to clock some uninterrupted time on the slopes, here’s looking at you! There’s even a game arcade and indoor wave pool to round it all off, on top of activities like dog sledding, ice fishing, snow rafting, and much more.
How to get there: Take a 2-hour free shuttle bus from Sapporo or New Chitose Airport
7. Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort
Travelling time from Sapporo: 1.5 hours by bus
Known for its dependable powder snow, Sapporo Kokusai boasts wide, well-groomed runs and scenic views, perfect for both beginners and intermediates. Advanced skiers will appreciate the off-piste areas, where there are no markers, and snow is more powdery.
With multiple slopes and trails, this resort is also family-friendly and ideal for a day trip - there is a snow play area for kids too! After a long day of skiing, rest those legs and enjoy some post-ski relaxation at the nearby hot springs.
How to get there: Take a 90-minute bus ride from Platform 17 of Sapporo Station Bus Terminal
8. Sapporo Teine Ski Resort
Travelling time from Sapporo: 40 minutes by car
Sapporo Teine is famous for its historical significance, as it hosted events for the 1972 Winter Olympics. With a range of slopes, this resort caters to all levels, from gentle runs for beginners to challenging, steep sections for experts.
Sapporo Teine's good selection of trails are spread out over two zones and connected by a gondola and a six kilometer long trail. The Highland Zone reaches 1,000 meters above sea level and features medium to advanced courses that advanced skiiers will appreciate. Think boxes and rails, while the lower Olympia Zone has more beginner-friendly trails, along with a family area that offers sledding and tubing.
How to get there: Take a 15-minute bus ride on bus no. 70 from Teine Station bound for Teine Highland and get off at the ski resort (15 minutes for Olympia Zone and 30 minutes for Highland Zone).
9. Sapporo Bankei Ski Area
Travelling time from Sapporo: 20 minutes by car
If you're looking for a ski resort that's convenient to get too from the city, Sapporo Bankei is for you! The Bankei Ski Area is a popular spot for locals, especially for evening and night skiing.
The resort features a good mix of runs, from beginner slopes to advanced trails, making it accessible for all. Its advanced lighting system allows for night skiing, an exciting experience that’s perfect for a quick, accessible winter escape without a long drive (especially with tired legs after one whole day of skiing!).
How to get there: Take a 13-minute ride on ban.K Bus, which departs from the Maruyama Park Station on the Sapporo Municipal Subway Tozai Line.
10. Club Med Sahoro Hokkaido Ski Resort
Travelling time from Sapporo: 2.5 hours by train
Check out the scenic slopes of Club Med Sahoro Hokkaido Ski Resort! Cradled in the majestic Japanese Alps of Hokkaido, Club Med Sahoro is an all-inclusive ski-in, ski-out accommodation that guarantees snowy fun for the whole family. Known for its fresh powder snow, treat yourself to a day trip out by getting a day ski pass!
Club Med北海道滑雪度假村｜Club Med Sahoro 介紹
Immerse yourself in a captivating blend of adventure, from thrilling winter sports to enchanting cultural activities like traditional tea ceremonies. There's even an outdoor Canadian Tub, for a nice relaxing soak after a day on the slopes.
Ski Pass:
- Group ski and/or snowboard lessons are included and guests will be grouped according to their level of experience
- Guests are advised to book the ski and/or snowboard lessons upon arrival
- Ski and snowboard equipment are available for rental onsite. Alternatively, you may choose to bring your own equipment
- It is recommended for guests to get their personal travel insurance
- Private lessons are available and subject to availability at additional costs, which you may enquire onsite
Even if you're not in the mood for skiing, there are also a ton of other things to do at Club Med Sahoro. Besides unlimited meals and drinks at their dining establishments, you can indulge in these other fun activities too!
- Rock climbing
- Table Tennis
- Squash
- Badminton
- Main Pool
- WIFI
- Evening entertainment - shows, circus performances, live band
How to get there: From the airport, catch the Chitose Line to Minami Chitose Station, and then transfer trains onto the Sekisho Line. From Shintoku station, a bus or taxi will take around 15 minutes.
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