Nicknamed the "powder-snow paradise," Hokkaido is a dream ski destination for many. Hokkaido not only boasts top-quality snow and runs, but also an incredible array of nearby experiences from ski resorts to hot spring towns making it perfect for a winter getaway to enjoy the snow!
Trip.com has rounded up Hokkaido ski essentials, recommended ski areas & resorts, and even how to choose between snowboarding and skiing, all in one guide to the magic of Hokkaido's snowy wonderland.
Before you head to Japan to ski, make sure you know each resort’s operating dates. Some resorts even stay open into April. Japan’s ski season usually starts in December each year, but the exact dates you can ski vary by resort and region. Because Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost area, it’s also the earliest to kick off the ski season, with more reliable snowfall.
Every year, January and February are when snowfall is most consistent across most regions; it’s the golden window for skiing and the most popular time of the season. In March, while there’s still plenty of snow, the weather gets harder to predict as spring approaches; occasional warm days can affect snow quality. The ski season’s biggest crowds show up over Christmas and New Year, as well as during the first week of February.
Hokkaido’s ski season runs from late November to early April of the following year, with the best skiing from mid-December through March, when the snowpack is deeper and the snow quality is better, perfect for skiing and other snow activities.
Costs will vary depending on factors like the ski resort and lodging. The most basic expense is your lift ticket, which typically runs about S$40-100. Rentals for gear and apparel, ski lessons, and add-on attractions at the resort are priced separately based on what you need.
Lodging can fluctuate a lot, you can go with a budget hotel or splurge on a luxury resort, with double rooms ranging roughly S$120–300 per night.
Finally, there’s transportation. Since ski resorts are usually outside the city, you can drive yourself, book a private car, or take public transit to get there. Overall, plan on spending about S$200–350 for a basic one-day ski outing. And if you book discounted tickets and hotels through Trip.com, you’ll save even more!
Why is Hokkaido a must for skiing? Because it offers unique features you won’t find at other ski resorts in Japan. Here’s a quick rundown so you’ll get it in seconds!
1. Premium powder snow: Hokkaido’s powder is world-renowned, drawing ski lovers from all over the globe! Thanks to its cold, dry winters, the snow is ultra light, so skiing in Hokkaido feels completely different from typical man-made snow—the ride is smoother and you’ll feel like you’re floating.
2. Longer ski season: Compared to other regions of Japan, Hokkaido the northernmost region enjoys a longer ski season, with snowfall that’s both abundant and reliably consistent. Not only does that make for a better experience on the slopes, but travelers can also enjoy a longer prime snow season.
3. Highly international: Hokkaido’s powder snow is famous far and wide, attracting skiers from around the globe, so its ski resorts have a distinctly international vibe. English-language tours and guidance are readily available, and ski resort facilities are fully equipped, making it easy for travelers from all over to fully enjoy the fun of skiing.
4. Ultra-soothing hot spring experience: Winter in Hokkaido isn’t just about skiing, soaking in an onsen is a can’t-miss highlight! Hokkaido is home to relaxing hot spring towns like Jozankei, Hoheikyo, and Noboribetsu Hell Valley, making it perfect for a winter getaway that combines time on the slopes with rejuvenating hot-spring soaks.
5. Stunning mountain scenery: Hokkaido is blessed with awe-inspiring natural beauty; as you ski, soak in views of Mount Yotei, nicknamed the "Hokkaido Fuji," and not only will it rejuvenate body and soul, but you'll also come away from your trip with plenty of Instagram-worthy photos.
The top airport pick for Hokkaido is New Chitose Airport in Sapporo, with a flight time of about 3 hours and 50 minutes. We also recommend connecting through Tokyo or Osaka, since you might snag cheaper fares, and you can plan to visit two places in one trip—experience Japan’s diverse charms all at once!
Sapporo International Ski Resort is about an hour’s drive from downtown and features long, sweeping runs; it’s also the most famous ski area in the region. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’ll find slopes that suit you at Sapporo International Ski Resort. On top of that, there’s a gondola, snow racing, snow drifting, snowboards with handlebars, and more fun activities waiting for you to try!
Kamui Ski Links has three runs certified by the International Ski Federation (FIS), along with endless ungroomed terrain—it's the largest ski area in northern Hokkaido! It's just a 60-minute drive from Asahikawa Airport and only 90 minutes by car from Sapporo, making it easy to reach and a fan favorite.
Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area is located in Niseko Town, Hokkaido. Its high-quality powder draws skiers from across Japan and around the world, and the light, airy snow makes for wonderfully smooth runs. With multiple trails spread across a vast area, it’s not only perfect for beginners to experience the joy of skiing—the breathtaking scenery makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a winter wonderland.
Niseko Grand Hirafu Ski Resort sits in the Niseko area and offers a range of classes for first-time skiers, helping beginners learn fast! Beyond the slopes, Niseko’s snowy village is brimming with restaurants and hotels—be sure to soak in the storybook scenery that feels just like stepping into a fairytale～
Kiroro Ski Resort (Kiroro Resort) is about an 80-minute drive from Sapporo and is hailed by skiers as a world-class ski resort! Kiroro Ski Resort is packed with amenities, and in 2008 it partnered with France's "Village des Enfants" to launch the "Ani Kids Ski School," so both adults and kids can experience the fun of skiing.
Former host of the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup, Furano Ski Resort has built a reputation among international skiers. Its naturally contoured, snow-covered forest runs are famous and perfect for adventure-loving travelers. On top of that, Furano offers a wide variety of runs, and carving down from the higher elevations rewards you with breathtaking snowy mountain views!
Niseko United Ski Resort (Niseko United) sits at the foot of Mount Annupuri, and its exceptionally high-quality powder snow is the area’s signature. The resort offers several high-difficulty runs, ideal for advanced skiers to challenge themselves and relish the rush of weaving through forested slopes as snowflakes cascade down. Plus, shops, restaurants, and English-language services are all readily available.
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Rusutsu Ski Resort pairs its slopes with resort amenities, making it Hokkaido’s largest amusement park! After hitting the runs, you can hop on roller coasters, splash in outdoor pools, take in the views from the Mt. Yotei observation deck, visit the Sheep Plaza, and more—perfect for the whole family to experience the magic of a snowy wonderland together.
Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU Ski Resort has 29 ski runs, from gentle slopes to steep descents, making it ideal for both first-timers and seasoned pros. The resort also features the snow-and-ice wonderland "Ice Village" and the kids' park "NIPO TOWN," and you can enjoy hot springs and shopping without ever leaving the resort—perfect for families looking to experience a snowy paradise.
Club Med Hokkaido Kiroro Peak Resort was named one of Trip.Best 2024 Global Top 100 Ski Hotels, located in northern Hokkaido with a longer ski season and excellent powder quality! Beyond lodging, dining, hot springs, and shopping, you can also dive deep into the culture of Hokkaido’s Indigenous Ainu people here and make unforgettable memories.
The well-known all-inclusive resort brand, Club Med, also has the Club Med Sahoro resort in Hokkaido! The European chalet-style decor gives travelers a warm, welcoming vibe, and the wide range of dining options will keep you happily satisfied from breakfast through dinner～ On top of that, you can join ski lessons with professional instructors, unwind in a Japanese-style bathhouse, relax in the sauna, and enjoy other premium amenities—staying here is such a treat～
Beyond resort-style stays, apartment hotels can make you feel right at home! This apartment-style hotel sits in Niseko Town, a renowned ski destination, with a gear rental shop on the first floor and a lift right outside the door that gets you to the slopes with ease—super friendly for skiers. A fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, and dishwasher come standard, and the rooms are simple and cozy, making it ideal for skiers taking longer lessons.
One question almost every beginner faces is whether to go with snowboarding or skiing. Below, we’ve outlined the key features of both to help travelers decide, but if you’re serious about getting into this sport, we still encourage you to try both for yourself or consult an instructor so you can find the style that suits you best!
Type | Highlights | Who it's for | Difficulty |
Snowboarding | It's like surfing on snow, balancing with both feet. Riding with a sideways stance makes it easier to pull off tricks, and the gear is relatively affordable. | People who love doing tricks and have surfing experience | The learning curve is steep at first, but once you get the hang of it, the advanced techniques are relatively simple. |
Skiing | Keep your feet apart for control, and with two ski poles to help, it's easier to stay balanced when you're just starting out. Skiing usually lets you pick up more speed and stay nimble when you're taking on runs of varying steepness. | Beginners and those who prefer higher stability and control | Easy to get started, but advanced challenges are tough |
Hokkaido offers an incredible variety of ski resorts. Beyond checking recommendations from other travelers online, you can also weigh the following factors to help you decide:
1. Ski runs: Hokkaido’s ski resorts typically have multiple runs, so take a close look at each resort’s descriptions and official website to find the ones that match your skill level. If it’s your first time, pay special attention to whether they offer lessons private instructors or group classes so you can choose the course that suits you best and get the hang of it faster!
2. Ski resort amenities: Beyond skiing itself, features like lifts, sledding, and children’s play areas are key factors to consider. Resorts with a wide range of activities are perfect for family trips or first-timers. And if you’re craving an ultra-satisfying resort experience, go for ski resorts with on-site lodging and dining to level up your trip.
3. Ease of access: Ski resorts are usually in the mountains, so transportation is an important factor to consider. If you're driving or taking public transportation, opt for a resort close to Sapporo or New Chitose Airport, as it'll be even more convenient!
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If you’d rather skip the research and the hassle of arranging transportation or you’re traveling in a big group with seniors and kids then instead of handling all the nitty-gritty of ski resort itineraries and getting around yourself, just book the "Hokkaido Ski One-Day Tour"!
Compared with a traditional full-on group tour, it’s more flexible, yet it’s even more time- and energy-saving than going fully independent, so you can easily enjoy a wonderful one-day ski experience.
It’s a total no-brainer: just follow the guide and have a blast. You can also mix and match different levels of runs, instructor packages, and gear rentals. Go all out on the slopes and get a ride back to your hotel afterward no need to worry about draining your energy on transportation. Perfect for beginners or travelers who just want to try it out!
919-28 Soga, Abuta District
Abuta District, Nisekohirafu 1 Jo, 4-chome−5−32 ニセコひらふ1条4丁目5番32号
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