Check out five recommended ski resorts in Hokkaido - the perfect destinations for any ski trip to Japan!

Hoshino Resorts Tomamu - fun for the whole family

Hoshino Resorts Tomamu is most often recognized by its two pairs of twin towers that stand above the winter scenery.

The resort is perhaps best known for its slopes suited for the whole family - not to mention its luxurious accommodations and buffet restaurants at hotels, popular amongst families. The resort has safe runs that lead down all the way from the peak, ideal for beginners to learn on while taking in the breathtaking scenery. There’s skiing fun on hand for the whole family.

The many hidden attractions all throughout Tomamu’s ski runs will hook even adults. Before you know it, your whole family will be better skiers - that’s what awaits you at Tomamu!

Sapporo Teine - slopes that are sure to please all levels of skier

Sapporo Teine is a 50-minute train and bus ride away from downtown Sapporo, the largest city in Hokkaido. This makes Sapporo Teine an easily accessible urban ski area, which also offers commanding views of the ocean in the distance.

Sapporo Teine offers two slopes, called zones. The Olympia Zone is recommended for families or couples who want to enjoy a relaxed ski together. This zone features a number of runs that are wide and ideal for beginners, meaning you can get out on the slopes and start warming up soon after arriving.

The Highland Zone, on the other hand, offers more challenging slopes that were once used during the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics. These steep runs will challenge even the most advanced skiers.

Both areas are connected by a gondola and other courses, so you can enjoy ample runs on both slopes all day long.

Snow Cruise Onze - showcasing stunning ocean views

Snow Cruise Onze offers simply the most stunning views of its surrounding landscape. This is the ski resort to choose if you want to enjoy night skiing, but the views from the peak out over the ocean are also said to be among the best in all of Hokkaido.

Once the night skiing period begins, the slopes are transformed into a dazzling sea of light. Onze offers a number of faces throughout the day, but it’s known not just for its scenic beauty but also its easy access: the resort operates a free shuttle bus from the nearest railway station.

Kiroro Ski Resort - considered to have the best snow quality in all of Japan

Kiroro Ski Resort sees some of the heaviest snowfall in Hokkaido. This deep and fine snow is spread all across the resort’s expansive slopes.

Generally, Kiroro’s runs are wide with a gentle slope, making all of the skiing areas here fun even for beginner and intermediate skiers. Kiroro’s Annie Kids Ski Academy, a ski school aimed at children, is also quite popular amongst the resort goers.

Kiroro’s slopes are perfect for first-time skiers because of the many lessons available by skill level.

Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu - a world famous ski resort

No conversation about Hokkaido skiing would be complete without Niseko. Niseko is known for its variety of runs, huge selection of restaurants, and stunning views of the majestic Mt. Yotei. The quality of snow there is also excellent - the resort is simply pure perfection. No wonder so many people from around the world ski Niseko.

Niseko has earned notoriety for its overcrowded gondolas in the early morning and its steep increases in accommodation pricing, but skiers simply can’t turn their back on Niseko. The resort also offers night skiing during its on-season. It’s cold up there - but well worth it for skiers who want to experience the ultimate powder snow.

Hokkaido has the best ski resorts in all of Japan

So there you have it -
we took a closer look at five particularly recommended ski resorts among the many found in Hokkaido. Get out there and enjoy some amazing skiing, but remember to choose your destination based on the ability of those in your travel party and how you want to enjoy the slopes.

Pricing information and schedule may not be up to date and are subject to change without notice. Please check before your trip.