Discover Hokkaido’s Best Ski Resorts
Experience the powder snow and scenic landscapes
If you love to ski, Hokkaido is your playground, possessing an unparalleled ski area for snow sports enthusiasts with powder snow, superior snow quality and breathtaking scenery in Japan.
Winter is coming (if you get the reference :P), cold temperatures are looming, so gear up for a ski season for the ages in Hokkaido by visiting some of the most recommended ski resorts in the region and get ready to shred some slopes with Pelago by Singapore Airlines' ski resorts guide now!
Top Hokkaido Ski Resorts
When you are looking for things to do in Japan during winter, Niseko Hanazono Resort gets all the headlines but other hidden gems are waiting to be discovered. Don’t miss Kiroro, Sapporo Teine, Kokusai and Sahoro Ski Resort, the other locations that offer a more authentic experience with a huge amount of deep powder for advanced skiers and backcountry terrain for those who want to get away from the crowds on your Hokkaido trip. There is something for everyone - Kiroro has powder snow and tranquil vibes, Sapporo Teine has Pacific Ocean views and is great for beginners, Kokusai Ski Resort has consistent snowfall and varied terrain, Furano is the top choice for tree skiers with easy access to powder runs while Tomamu is perfect for in-bounds powder skiing. Read on for a more in-depth breakdown of each ski resort's course features and amenities to plan for your next adventure in Hokkaido!
Sapporo Teine Ski Resort
Sapporo Teine Ski Resort is ideal for both novices and seasoned skiers. For skiing near Sapporo, the lower Olympia area provides mellow slopes and night skiing, while the higher Highland area offers steeper runs and breathtaking ocean views. If you are a beginner, they also offer private ski/snowboard lessons to help you get up to speed on the slopes. Easily accessible from Sapporo by car, train, or bus, these Hokkaido ski mountains are perfect for a day trip, a visit to the Sapporo Snow Festival, or a longer stay to explore the local culture and cuisine.
Takino Snow World Family Ski Resort
Nestled in Takino Suzuran Hillside Park, Takino Snow World is one of the best skiing resorts in Hokkaido and is perfect for families visiting Japan. This resort features multiple cross-country skiing courses, including safe courses for those new to the ski or snowboard, and one of the longest sledging slopes in Japan. The 200m inner tube course at this resort is a blast for all ages, making it a fun-filled destination for snow sports enthusiasts. There is also a play area ideal for making snowmen and to keep those who aren’t into skiing or snowboarding entertained. Whatever your preference, it has something for you, so book your first-time skiing and snow play tour today.
North Snow Land in Chitose
North Snow Land in Chitose is a charming and less crowded snowy escape. On these Hokkaido ski fields, you can enjoy many snow activities like skiing, snowmobiling, snow tubing, animal watching with cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing trails. Perfect for a day of snowy adventures and serene scapes, this ski resort near the Sapporo area is an excellent choice for families and those seeking an offbeat and tranquil getaway.
Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort
Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort is known for its reliable deep powder snow and long ski season, making it ideal for all skill levels. The resort's proximity to Sapporo and beautiful surrounding scenery make it an appealing choice for snow sports lovers, whether you are looking for an intermediate skiing lesson or a full-day private skiing/snowboarding tour.
Niseko Village Ski Resort
The Niseko ski area is known as powder heaven for Hokkaido skiing and snowboarding lovers. Known for its consistent, deep and quality snow, Niseko offers runs for all levels from advanced riders to complete beginners.
But what most people call Niseko Ski Resort is a whole lot more—it’s a collection of four fantastic ski resorts all rolled into one on Mt. Annupuri. If you peek at the Niseko United trail map, you’ll spot Niseko Hanazono Resort, Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village, and Annupuri, each with its unique charm, teaming up to create the snowy wonderland that is Niseko United. There is also a Niseko United shuttle that runs between each of these resorts, making it the ultimate ski resort complex.
Yet, out of them all, Niseko Village Ski Resort is the jewel in the crown in the Niseko area, revered for its fantastic backcountry terrain, terrain park and tree skiing opportunities, accessible via a short ski tour and traverse. Additionally, the lively Niseko village has a decent range of shopping locations, restaurants and nightlife options, making it the ideal Hokkaido ski resort for a full winter experience.
Rusutsu Resort
For those who are interested in taking day trips to ski, Rusutsu Resort is your dream destination for skiing in Hokkaido as it can be reached easily by car, shuttle bus or helicopter.
With around 14 meters of snow per year, 820 hectares of ski areas, Rusutsu Resort is one of the most recommended ski resorts in Hokkaido as it promises convenient access to ski lifts and little crowds. Advanced skiers will also appreciate the off-piste opportunities and chance to go on some of the best tree runs in Japan. Though the nightlife scene has more laidback energy as compared to the Hirafu area, you will still love the huge variety of activities.
Furano Ski Resort
Located in central Hokkaido, Furano Ski Resort is the all-rounder of Hokkaido ski resorts, ideal for riders of all levels. It strikes a perfect balance between affordable accommodation options, resort amenities, and authentic Japanese charm.
Known for its "champagne powder," this particular type of snow is exceptionally light, dry, and fluffy. Skiers and snowboarders prize this great snow because it creates ideal conditions for snowboarding and skiing in Hokkaido. Furano offers fantastic groomed runs, off-piste terrain, and backcountry access.
With more sunny days than other ski areas in central Hokkaido, it's a perfect choice for skiers of all levels and those looking for a well-rounded vacation.
Tomamu Ski Resort
Tomamu Ski Resort is a luxurious and family-friendly destination in central Hokkaido. The resort focuses on modern amenities, including a wave pool and high-end restaurants, alongside excellent skiing.
Adrenaline junkies will appreciate the in-bounds powder skiing and off-piste opportunities, while families can enjoy group lessons, kid-friendly slopes, and the all-inclusive Club Med Tomamu in Hokkaido. With a short hike, you can also access incredible backcountry ski touring and tree runs.
Planning Your Hokkaido Ski Trip
Getting to Hokkaido Ski Resorts
Fly into Sapporo-Chitose Airport for easy access to Hokkaido’s ski resorts. From Sapporo-Chitose Airport, a well-connected network of trains and buses will get you to your destination quickly and efficiently. From the New Chitose Airport, dedicated bus lines connect some of the main ski resorts, including Niseko, Furano, and Rusutsu.
If you are in search of a quicker travel option in Japan, book your private transfer from Chitose Airport to Sapporo or your preferred ski resort in Hokkaido.
Hokkaido Snow Report and Weather Forecast
Stay up-to-date with Hokkaido’s weather and snowfall conditions by bookmarking reliable resources and checking real-time snow reports regularly. This will help you plan the best times to hit the slopes and have a perfect getaway in Hokkaido, Japan.
Pack Your Skiis and Snowboard Now
Whether you want to carve fresh tracks in Niseko, catch some sick views of Daisetsuzan National Park as you speed down the slopes at Daisetsuzan Sounkyo Kurodake Ski Resort, get an adrenaline rush exploring backcountry terrain or relax in the hot springs after a day of skiing or snowboarding, the Japanese ski resorts in Hokkaido have something for everyone. With most Hokkaido resorts such as Niseko Village Resort offering a shuttle bus service and assistance from staff who speak English, planning your perfect holiday is easy. From epic runs to endless fun, the mountains in Hokkaido will give you memories you won’t forget. Pack your skis, grab your snowboard and start planning your next snowy escape to the northernmost main island of Japan, Hokkaido now!