Glide And Slide At These 7 Hokkaido Ski Resorts

Hokkaido is known for being the best place to ski in Japan as its mountainous scenery gets caked in powder-like snow during the winter months. In fact, most of Japan’s best ski resorts are found in Hokkaido, with Niseko being the most popular choice among many. So, if you’re looking to enjoy Japan’s winter wonderland, give Hokkaido a go. It’s surely a sight to see that’s different from our year-round tropical climate in Singapore! Read on to find our top picks for the best ski resorts in Hokkaido.

When is the best time to visit Hokkaido ski resorts?

Typically, Hokkaido ski resorts tend to open up from mid to late November and stop their operations in March. However, depending on the snow conditions at each ski resort, some of the larger ski areas may continue operations until late April or early May — when springtime arrives in Hokkaido. For those planning to visit Hokkaido this holiday season, make sure to check live weather forecasts and snow conditions before making your trip up the lodge.

• Late November to Early December: To avoid the crowds

This is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the peak season yet still enjoy good snow conditions. Most Hokkaido ski resorts offer lower prices around late November to early December as the snow just starts to pour in. Take note that not all winter activities will be available this early in the season, but it’s still a good time to get ahead of the crowds and enjoy Hokkaido’s winter scenery.

• December to Early February: Peak season for powder snow

Scheduling your trip between December and early February gives you the highest chance of consistent snowfall, deep powder, and optimal conditions for off-piste skiing and snowboarding. However, it’s also the peak tourist season, which means it’s the busiest and most expensive time to visit. Just be sure to book everything in advance to avoid missing out on some of Hokkaido’s best winter activities! 

• Late February to March: To catch the last bit of snow

As the snow season starts to wind down, you might still find excellent snow conditions at Hokkaido’s best ski resorts, with fewer crowds and potentially lower prices. This is a good option for travellers who prefer a more relaxed skiing experience, and you can generally expect a fair amount of powder snow even if it’s after the peak season.

Best ski resorts in Hokkaido

1. Hilton Niseko Village – West Hokkaido

Let’s kick off our list with one of the places in Hokkaido that most travellers are familiar with: Niseko! It’s not an exaggeration to say that Niseko has some of the best ski resorts in Hokkaido and, to a greater extent, the whole of Japan! On average, Niseko records a snowfall of 10 to 15 metres annually, coating the slopes of Mt. Niseko-Annupuri with its famous dry powder snow. Offering 47 kilometres of ski trails, Niseko is perfect for skiers to test their skills while basking in the sun.

Within Niseko ski resort lies four interlinked ski resorts: the Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village and An’nupuri. Out of these, Hilton Niseko Village has always been my number one pick as the best place to stay in Hokkaido. It’s a popular tourist destination, yet a great place to stay in Niseko that’s away from the bustling crowds. Expect a quieter landscape compared to more populated areas like Hirafu, as Hilton Niseko Village is located away from nightclubs, bars, and restaurants that can get pretty crowded during the peak season. But don’t fret! There’s still plenty of après-ski activities in Niseko Village, such as sightseeing at Mt. Yotei, karaoke, and shopping!

Hilton Niseko Village details: 

2. Chalet Burlap Furanui – Central Hokkaido

Situated in the heart of Hokkaido, Furano is the best ski resort in Hokkaido for experiencing the Japanese skiing culture. Consisting of 24 ski runs totalling up to 25 kilometres, Furano has played host to the Ski and Snowboard World Cup 12 times, making it a popular destination for avid skiers. Being less crowded than Niseko, Furano is the best ski resort in Hokkaido for beginners as they can glide along the winding groomed runs. Plus, you can always count on a seasoned skier to show you the ropes!

Funaro is an underrated ski spot, as most tourists prefer booking in Niseko or Sapporo. That’s great news for travellers who prefer the quiet slopes as Furano is home to a handful of ski-in, ski-out resorts! This means that the slopes are right outside the hotel doors, so you can jump into a pair of skis at any time of the day, or watch some winter sports from your hotel room. Hotels like Chalet Burlap Furanui will give you those ski lodge vibes with its cabin-like interiors, and it’s really a ski-in, ski-out as the slope is right outside the hotel doors!

Chalet Burlap Furanui details: 

3. Sahoro Resort Hotel – South Hokkaido

Travelling with young kids? If so, then Sahoro is the best ski resort in Hokkaido just for you! Sahoro is made up of two main ski resorts: Club Med Hokkaido Sahoro and Sahoro Resort Hotel; the former offering the best family-friendly skiing experience in Hokkaido. Being one of the few ski resorts in Japan to offer group ski and snowboarding lessons in English, families can have a blast while honing their skills.

Those seeking a retreat in the Hokkaido wilderness should definitely opt for the Sahoro Resort Hotel! Tucked away within the forests, the hotel uses wooden furniture and aromas to provide a natural soothing ambience. It’s also a great place to stay in Japan for that ski-in, ski-out experience as the  Plus, the Sahoro Resort Hotel features its signature Tokachi sauna in the winter, so you can get a warming steam bath after a full day of skiing. Using the groundwaters from the nearby Tokachi mountains, the steam will help you to sweat it out and speed up your fatigue recovery.

Sahoro Resort Hotel details: 

4. Yu Kiroro Hotel – North Hokkaido

I love seeing the snow-capped mountains in Hokkaido during winter time, but prefer the convenience of city life. Kiroro has the best ski resorts in Hokkaido that can provide the best of both worlds! Nestled near the charming coastal city of Otaru, it offers easy access to stunning slopes and a serene atmosphere without having to wander off too far into the countryside. The ski resort has 23 different ski runs spread across the slopes of Mt. Asari and Mt. Nagamine, and has numerous accessible off-piste areas for powder hounds to show off their remarkable skills. Within the ski resort lies a snow park as well, where you can traverse on a banana boat or slide down the hills in a snow tube.

Sharing the grounds with Kiroro is the luxurious Yu Kiroro Hotel. This cosy, alpine-inspired hotel offers a warm, inviting ambiance – a comforting contrast to the cold, snowy weather outside! And the best part? It’s ski-in, ski-out! Leave your gear with the hotel’s ski valet and come back to warm, dry equipment. Yu Kiroro Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Japan for families, as you can feel assured that their attentive staff will help you with anything you need during your stay.

Yu Kiroro Hotel details:

5. Sapporo Teine – Midwestern Hokkaido

Sapporo is mostly known for two things: the best Japanese beer, and the best ski resorts in Hokkaido! As the venue for the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics, Sapporo Teine’s ski trails were adapted from previous runs used for slalom and giant slalom races. The resort is separated into the Highland zone, which features mostly medium to advanced courses, and the Olympia zone which consists of gentler trails suited for beginners. While skiing, skiers can admire unparalleled views of Sapporo city and Ishikari Bay, as well as the former Olympic torch stand used during the Games.

Feel just like a pro skier when you stay at the Sapporo Teine! It was the chosen location for the 1972 Winter Olympics, and has somewhat of a legendary status among skiers. Sapporo Teine provides easy access to Olympia Zone and Highland Zone, making it one of the best ski resorts in Hokkaido for both novice and experienced winter athletes. So, pack your winter gear and boots, and trek up the slopes for some winter fun!

Sapporo Teine details: 

6. Rusutsu Resort Hokkaido Japan – Southwest Hokkaido

Fun awaits at the best all-season ski resort in Hokkaido! Home to 37 ski trails covering three peaks, Rusutsu has the region’s largest individual ski area and is known for its high snowfall and quality powder snow. From groomed ski runs tailored for beginners to steep off-piste runs for adventurous souls, feel the thrill and excitement while enjoying the spectacular scenery of surrounding mountains. 

The Rusutsu Resort in Hokkaido, Japan is one of the largest resorts for all seasons. From spring to winter, this resort is packed with tourists looking to enjoy Hokkaido’s natural scenery. So it’s no surprise that the Rusutsu Resort is also one of the best ski resorts in Hokkaido as it provides an unobstructed view of three peaks: West Mt., East Mt., and Mt. Isola. It offers 37 runs to suit every skier and snowboarder, from wide, beginner-friendly slopes to steep, expert-level descents. They’re also the best ski resort to catch The Day – the perfect ski day where the sun is shining yet the snow is cold and powdery!

Rusutsu Resort Hokkaido Japan details: 

7. Hoshino Resorts – Central Hokkaido

This is one of the best ski resorts in Hokkaido to indulge in exciting resort activities! Tomamu receives an average snowfall of 14 metres annually, providing powder snow to cover the ski trails and off-piste areas. Also, during the winter season, Tomamu will also play host to an Ice Village — a small settlement with various objects and attractions built entirely out of ice. You can even visit an ice church, where you can share a romantic moment walking hand-in-hand down the aisle with your partner.

Although accommodations may be sparse around the area, Tomamu still has some of the best ski resorts in Hokkaido, like the Hoshino Resorts! Famous for having Japan’s biggest indoor beach and an 80-metre wave pool, the resort is the best place to stay to experience summer amidst the winter chill. Visitors can participate in activities such as paddleboarding and slacklining to move about on the expansive beach. Imagine sunbathing and swimming surrounded by snowy peaks? It’s an experience you just have to try out for yourself! Afterwards, you can chill out at the Kirin-no-Yu open bath while admiring the starry night skies that paint Hokkaido’s nightscape.

Hoshino Resorts details: 

Essentials to bring along for your December Hokkaido trip

Now that we got your itinerary covered, it’s time for you to start packing your bags. But don’t panic if you have forgotten what to pack for a winter as our winter packing list gives you an ultimate guide on what to bring along for your Hokkaido trip! Bring along some Japan winter essentials like a Japan SIM card, heat packs, and even the best sunscreens to protect your skin from the sun’s glare.

Unwind at the best ski resorts in Hokkaido this December holidays!

We hope all this talking about Hokkaido’s best ski resorts has got you stoked for the year-end holidays! If you’re visiting a winter country for the first time, do remember to pack your luggage with some handy winter essentials. And after you’ve had your fill of fun, remember to swing by the local stores to grab some of the best Japanese snacks as keepsakes to bring back to Singapore. Ski you there!