Ah, Hokkaido – a true skier’s paradise.
Blessed with some of the finest snow quality in the world and jaw-dropping views, Japan's northernmost island should be firmly on your bucket list.
And from legendary powder runs to scenic backcountry skiing, there's something for every level of skier.
Plus, with up to 100 days of snow and an annual snowfall of up to 18 metres, there's plenty of JAPOW (slang for "Japan Powder") to go around too.
Here’s our guide to the best ski resorts in Hokkaido to hit the slopes:
1. Sapporo Teine Ski Resort
If you're a sucker for history and culture, then Sapporo Teine might be right up your alley.
One of the best ski resorts near Sapporo, this complex hosted events for the 1972 Winter Olympics, so you can expect Olympic-level ski slopes and snowboarding here.
But don’t let the Olympic factor intimidate you. There’s a wide range of ski courses for all levels – gentle runs for first-timers, and of course, those steep and demanding sections for the pros.
The trails are spread across two zones, connected by a gondola and a six-kilometre-long trail.
In the Highland Zone, which soars up to 1,000 metres above sea level, you'll find your boxes and rails. The lower, more beginner-friendly Olympia Zone has mellow trails and a family-friendly area with sledding and tubing.
Best of all, Sapporo Teine is just a quick 30–40 minute train and bus ride from Sapporo Station, making it a must-include in any Hokkaido skiing trip itinerary, and one of the best things to do in and around Sapporo during winter.
If you'd like to plan your trip easily, why not opt for a half-day ski package that includes transport and beginner lessons?
How to get there: Take the Rapid Airport 83 from Sapporo Station to Teine Station, then walk 20 minutes (1.4 km) or take bus 70 for a 15-minute ride to Teine Highland (15 minutes to Olympia Zone, 30 minutes to Highland Zone).
2. Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort
That gorgeous powder snow is found all over Hokkaido, of course, but none is more apparent than at Kokusai Ski Resort in West Hokkaido.
Blanketed with some of the driest snow in the region and some of the deepest snowpacks to boot, this small ski resort has only seven marked runs, two gondolas, and a quad chair, but that’s all you’ll need.
It’s all about backcountry skiing and off-piste here, whether you're zipping through endless rows of powder-filled trees or cruising across open bowls - whichever tickles your skiing fancy.
While experts will be more than satisfied with the off-piste and tree skiing here, there’s plenty to enjoy for beginners and intermediates too - think long groomed runs and a snow play area for kiddos.
And depending on your skill level, you can even level up your trip with an intermediate skiing lesson or a full-day private skiing/snowboarding tour. What’s not to love?
How to get there: Catch a 90-minute bus from Platform 17 at Sapporo Station Bus Terminal.
3. Niseko United Resort
There’s no self-respecting list of the best Hokkaido ski resorts without a mention of Niseko.
As the powder capital of the island, Niseko draws the biggest crowds – but for good reason.
Here, you'll find four interlinked resorts making up the Niseko United Resort: Niseko Village, Hanazono, Grand Hirafu, and Annupuri, with over 40 kilometres of snow runs to explore.
If you don’t mind mingling with the mainstream crowd, Grand Hirafu is the largest and most popular of Niseko’s ski resorts, featuring a massive 5,600-metre-long slope, a dozen chairlifts, and a gondola, and with some of the best skiing in Hokkaido.
But just because it’s popular doesn’t mean your experience will feel overly commercial. There’s incredible terrain and plenty of off-piste and sidecountry skiing for a real taste of Japanese powder.
Not a pro? No worries. Intermediate skiers can tackle Hanazono, the easternmost area of Niseko, known for its deep powder. Annupuri is also a fantastic spot for backcountry skiing or even night skiing if that’s more your style.
Beginners? Head to Niseko Village, which offers gentler slopes and terrain perfect for learning the ropes.
And the best part? The Niseko United shuttle runs between these resorts and is free for "All Mountain Pass" holders, so you can easily hit up all four in a single day – talk about convenience, eh?
But Niseko isn’t just about skiing and snowboarding.
You can take in the magnificent view of Mount Yotei, enjoy a warm soak in an onsen, or try other winter activities like snow rafting, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling. And if you’re a foodie, you’ll be spoiled with Michelin-starred restaurants to round out your visit.
How to get there: From New Chitose Airport, private transfers will get you to Niseko in about 4 hours. If you’ve got a Hokkaido Rail Pass, take a train from Sapporo – it’s just under 3 hours, with a quick transfer to the Hakodate Line at Otaru Station to reach Niseko Station.
4. Kiroro Ski Resort
Kiroro Ski Resort near Otaru might not be the hidden gem it once was, but it’s still a great option to escape the crowds at Niseko.
With two mountains and some of the deepest powder snow around, Kiroro offers four ski areas with a mix of groomed and ungroomed slopes. And with 14 tree runs perfect for backcountry skiing, you’ll never get bored here.
One of the best things about Kiroro is that it’s one of the flatter resorts in Hokkaido (aside from a few inbound short pitches), so it’s perfect for beginners and families.
But it’s not just about skiing - there’s so much to do. Think snow rafting, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and of course, soaking in an onsen to relax after a busy day.
Pro tip: Families should definitely check out the winter kids' park and the indoor Game Park Granship area. There’s even a kids’ club for little ones aged 2 to 7, so parents can sneak in a break while the kids are having fun.
How to get there: Catch a 26-minute train on the JR Rapid Airport Line from Sapporo Station to Otaru-Chikko Station, then hop on a 1-hour bus to the resort.
5. Rusutsu Resort
Thought Kiroro Ski Resort being spread across two mountains was cool? Well, Rusutsu Ski Resort spans three mountains.
Not only that, this renowned Hokkaido ski resort was named Japan's Best Ski Resort at the 2021 World Ski Resort Awards – pretty impressive, right?
With that kind of recognition, you can expect nothing less than Japanese skiing excellence. Plenty of snow? Check. Challenging courses for pros? Rusutsu’s got you covered. Well-maintained slopes for beginners? You bet.
When winter sets in, Rusutsu is the place to be, with its tree zones, groomed runs, backcountry skiing, and more.
With 14 ski lifts and four gondolas servicing the three peaks, getting around is a breeze.
Plus, with over 30 restaurants, two hot springs, a variety of bars, and the Instagram-worthy Stardust Avenue (300 metres of illuminated light bulbs), there’s plenty to explore when you're off the slopes, plus the Westin Rusutsu is a gem of a hotel to stay at, as well.
How to get there: The easiest way is to take a 2-hour private transfer directly from either Sapporo or New Chitose Airport to the ski resort.
6. Furano Ski Resort
Furano Ski Resort might not be the biggest, but it sure knows how to make an impression with jaw-dropping views of the Daisetsu mountain range. On those clear, sunny days (and there are plenty of them), the scenery is something else.
If you’re after some of the lightest, driest powder snow in Japan, Furano’s got you covered. Think steeper slopes, powder-filled off-piste gullies, and snow so perfect the cold keeps it just right for skiing and snowboarding.
What’s even better? It’s rarely crowded, even though the resort’s been getting more and more attention in recent years.
Hop on one of the express ski lifts, and you’ll be at the top in just over 10 minutes, ready to dive into all that off-piste terrain and powdery fun.
The resort’s split into two zones: Furano and Kitanomine, with 28 ski courses between them. Furano, in particular, is famous for its long, groomed runs – ideal for zooming down the slopes and getting that adrenaline rush.
And don’t miss Furano Kan Kan Mura! It’s like stepping into a winter wonderland, with snow sculptures, snow tubing, an Ice Café for drinks, and even night-time hot air balloon rides.
How to get there: Take a 53-minute train from Sapporo Station to Takikawa Station, then transfer to a 1-hour 9-minute train on the JR Nemuro Main Line to Furano Station (both covered by the Sapporo-Furano Area Pass). From there, take a 20-minute taxi ride to the resort.
7. Hoshino Resorts Tomamu
Hoshino Resorts Tomamu in central Hokkaido has come a long way from its luxury beginnings, once catering mainly to wealthy Japanese and Chinese tourists.
These days, it’s a go-to spot for skiers looking for amazing off-piste terrain, backcountry ski touring, and in-bounds powder skiing.
The slopes might not be super steep, but with deep snow and incredible backcountry tours, there’s plenty to keep advanced skiers happy. Plus, 11 ski lifts make it easy to explore a variety of terrain.
It’s not all about the thrill, though - Tomamu Ski Resort is fantastic for families, too. The gentler slopes are perfect for kids or anyone learning to ski, and the kids’ park is a hit with its sledding area, a snow playground, and a ski school designed just for little ones.
And let’s not forget the magical Ice Village, open from 20 January to 28 February 2025. This frosty wonderland has an Ice Bar (yep, even the glasses are made of ice!), a stunning Ice Chapel, and an Ice Hotel where you can stay the night - don’t worry, they provide cosy sleeping bags!
It’s a unique and fun alternative to the Sapporo Snow Festival and an unforgettable experience to add to your trip.
How to get there: You can take the Ozora Limited Express Tokachi 7 from Sapporo Station to Tomamu Station, which takes slightly over two hours.
8. Mt. Moiwa Ski Resort
For some epic Hokkaido skiing right in the heart of Sapporo city, it doesn’t get better than a quick trip to Mt. Moiwa Ski Resort, the closest resort to the capital, just a 20-minute drive away.
Unlike other ski resorts on this list, it's a ski-only resort, so sorry snowboarders – this one's just for you skiers.
At Mt. Moiwa Ski Resort, you can choose from 10 different ski courses, each offering a range of difficulty levels.
If you want to skip straight to the good stuff, head for the "Sightseeing Road Course," a popular choice for beginners, with stunning panoramic views of the city centre (which you can also enjoy on the scenic Mt. Moiwa ropeway, by the way).
Pro tip: Make sure to stick around after dark – night skiing here is a real treat, and with Mt. Moiwa being one of Japan's top spots for night views, it’s definitely worth it.
How to get there: It’s just a 20-minute drive from central Sapporo to the resort.
9. Asarigawaonsen Ski Resort
Asarigawaonsen Ski Resort may be one of the smaller ski resorts in Hokkaido, but don't let that fool you.
Located in Otaru, it’s one of the three ski areas in the city, and it has a charm that attracts mostly locals. That means you won’t get the overly touristy vibe you might find in more popular spots like Niseko.
With nine courses (piste trails) and plenty of powder snow, the resort keeps things nice and quiet, with fewer crowds to contend with.
On clear days, the views across Ishikari Bay and the Sea of Japan are absolutely stunning, making the trip worth it on their own.
And if you want a change of scenery, the much larger Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort is just a 20-minute drive away.
How to get there: Take the Rapid Airport train towards Otaru, then transfer to the No. 13 Asarigawaonsen Line bus to Onsen Minami. The ski resort is just a seven-minute walk away.
10. Club Med Sahoro Hokkaido Ski Resort
If you’re looking for a ski resort in Hokkaido that’s a little off the beaten path, Club Med Sahoro Ski Resort is a real hidden gem. This all-inclusive, ski-in, ski-out spot is perfect for powder lovers, with in-bounds powder skiing and awesome tree runs that will have you grinning all day long.
Sahoro Mountain offers a nice break from the crowds at places like Niseko and Kiroro. Sure, it gets a bit less powder snow because of its location, but that just means fewer people and more space to enjoy the slopes at your own pace.
When you’re not skiing, there’s still plenty besides the ski fields to keep you busy. Whether you’re into indoor rock climbing, squash, or just having a friendly game of pool or table tennis, there’s no shortage of things to do. And after a day on the slopes, don’t miss the outdoor Canadian Tub - it’s the perfect spot to relax in a hot tub under the stars.
With its chill atmosphere, awesome skiing, and tons of activities for the whole family, Club Med Sahoro is the perfect getaway for anyone looking to escape the hustle and enjoy some downtime.
How to get there: From the airport, hop on the Chitose Line to Minami Chitose Station, then switch to the Sekisho Line. When you arrive at Shintoku Station, it's just a short 15-minute ride by bus or taxi to your destination.
11. Kamui Links Ski Resort
When you think of Hokkaido ski resorts, Kamui Links might not be the first one that comes to mind - but trust us, it should be!
Just 30 minutes from Asahikawa, this laid-back resort offers plenty of fresh tracks waiting for snow chasers to explore.
With 7 lifts - one gondola and six double chair lifts - you’ll be whisked away to powder-covered trees and gullies in no time. The best part? It’s mostly crowd-free, except on weekends and holidays, so you can enjoy the slopes without the hustle and bustle.
And here’s the kicker: Kamui Links has one of the most open ski area policies in Japan, meaning there’s tons of room for backcountry fun.
In fact, "Kamui" means a spiritual or divine being in Ainu mythology - so it’s like the mountain itself is blessing you with perfect powder.
How to get there: From Sapporo Station, take the train to Asahikawa Station. From there, it's a 30-minute drive to the ski resort.
Planning Your Hokkaido Ski Resort Trip
Getting to Hokkaido Ski Resorts
Fly into New Chitose Airport for easy access to Hokkaido's ski resorts! From there, you’ll find a handy network of trains and buses that’ll get you to your destination quickly and smoothly.
Dedicated train lines even connect the airport to some of the top ski resorts, like Niseko and Furano.
If you’d prefer a faster option, why not book a private transfer from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo or your favourite ski resort in Hokkaido?
When is the best time to visit Hokkaido ski resorts?
If you're looking for the best time to visit Japanese ski resorts, April is a fantastic choice.
You’ll enjoy lower costs, fewer crowds, and plenty of sunny weather, although it’s near the end of Hokkaido's snow season in early May.
January and February are also popular for their fantastic skiing and snowboarding conditions. For families, mid-
February to March is ideal, offering great snow and more sunshine - perfect for a fun-filled Hokkaido winter itinerary that everyone will love.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Perfect Hokkaido Ski Resorts
If you're a skier looking for deep powder and some seriously fun slopes, Hokkaido, Japan, is where you want to be.
Whether you're hitting the famous runs at Niseko or exploring the quieter slopes at Asarigawaonsen, the ski resorts in Hokkaido, with their backcountry terrain and powder snow, offer something for everyone.