Local Guide
[2025 Edition] 6 Popular Ski Resorts in Hokkaido, a Powder Snow Paradise

Hokkaido in winter is known as a "powder paradise" because of the amazing powder snow you can enjoy to your heart's content. The snow quality is completely different from that of Honshu, and you can experience the best feeling of floating. Hokkaido is also unique in offering great views from the slopes, such as the silvery white landscape that stretches into the distance and the beautiful mountain ranges. There is also a wide range of snow Activity and après-ski options, so you can fully enjoy the winter resort atmosphere. Here are some recommended ski resorts that are popular in Hokkaido.

A premium snow resort where you can enjoy powdery snow

A large-scale structure spanning two mountains, the size of about 26 Tokyo Domes
A large-scale structure spanning two mountains, the size of about 26 Tokyo Domes

Tomamu, located in Shimukappu Village, almost in the center of Hokkaido, is an extremely cold area where temperatures can drop to -30°C in winter. The snow that falls there is so fine and powdery that it is called "silky snow." This is one of Japan's leading snow resorts, where you can enjoy the best quality snow on a variety of slopes. There are 29 courses, from gentle slopes to thrilling ungroomed courses. Ridge runs with views of Mount Daisetsu in the distance and wide runs leading to the two hotel buildings are full of thrills worthy of being called "THE Hokkaido Ski."

The variety of Experience on offer is second to none. Children can play as much as they like and have a great time.

Our original character, "Nipo." As he skis and snowboards with us, he grows to love skiing and snowboarding.
Our original character, "Nipo." As he skis and snowboards with us, he grows to love skiing and snowboarding.

A popular spot for families is "Nipo Town," where children can enjoy skiing and snowboarding while playing. There are also story-based courses such as "Nipo Mountain" and "Chokkari Mountain," which are exciting and will help you improve your skills.
Advanced skiers can enjoy the best snow to their heart's content in the "Advanced Ski Area" off the course, after following safety precautions and procedures. There are also three lanes for slope style skiing, equipped with large and small jumps and other items, allowing you to take on dynamic jumps. The extensive range of programs and Property makes this a comfortable winter resort with a high repeat rate.

Hoshino Resorts Tomamu Ski Resort
  • URLhttps://www.snowtomamu.jp/winter/ski/
  • 住所Hokkaido Yufutsu District Shimukappu Village Naka Tomamu MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 5 minutes by car from JR Tomamu Station
  • バスアクセスFree shuttle bus available from JR Tomamu Station
  • 営業時間December 1, 2024 (Sun)- April 1, 2025 (Tue)
    Lift operation: 8:45-18:00 (until December 25th, until 15:30)
  • 定休日Open daily
  • 入場料Lift 1-day ticket: Adults 7,500 yen, elementary school students 5,500 yen
  • TEL0167-58-1111
  • 駐車場free
  • メモOperating periods and hours may change depending on snow conditions. Lift ticket prices vary depending on the season. Please check the website for details.

Approximately 80% of the courses are beginner and intermediate. A famous ski resort that has been loved for a long time.

A wide, gentle slope on the "Family Slope"
A wide, gentle slope on the "Family Slope"

Conveniently located about 10 minutes by car from Furano city, it is popular for its sightseeing and gourmet food. Of the 23 runs, about 20% are for advanced skiers, while the rest are for beginners and intermediate skiers with an average slope of around 15 degrees. The pleasant snow quality makes it perfect for enjoying a resort-like experience, or for practicing to improve your level. The layout makes the most of the terrain, with courses that run through the forest and have many ups and downs, and downhill courses with panoramic views of Mt. Tokachi and the Daisetsuzan mountain range.
Once you reach the summit by gondola and ropeway, a long run of 3 to 4 km awaits.

Plenty of snow activities and after-ski programs available

Kids' smiles in full bloom at "FURANO Snow Land"
Kids' smiles in full bloom at "FURANO Snow Land"

At the foot of the mountain, there is a family-friendly area called "FURANO Snow Land," where you can enjoy banana boats and snowmobiles. At night, the night Activity area "Furano Kankanmura" is also open. You can enjoy snow tubing and other activities while the area is fantastically lit up.
Furano Ski Resort has a history of being visited by mountain skiers since the Meiji era. It is a famous ski resort loved by top athletes from around the world, having hosted the FIS (International Ski Federation) World Cup ten times and also the Snowboarding World Cup.

Furano Ski Resort
  • URLhttps://www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/furano/winter/
  • 住所Hokkaido Furano City Nakagoryo MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 10 minutes by car from JR Furano Station
  • バスアクセスTake the bus from JR Furano Station and get off at "Furano Prince Hotel" or "Shin Furano Prince Hotel"
  • 営業時間Daytime: (Sat) November 30, 2024 to Tuesday, May 6, 2025 (substitute holiday) 8:30 to 16:00 or sunset
    Night games: Mid-December 2024 to March 22, 2025 (Sat) 16:00-19:30 *Until 18:00 on weekdays
  • 定休日No opening hours during business hours *Business hours and dates may change depending on weather and snowfall
  • 入場料Lift ticket (regular season)
    1-day ticket: 7,500 yen for adults, 6,900 yen for seniors (free for elementary school students and younger)
    Night tickets: Adults from 2,700 yen, Seniors from 2,500 yen
    *Please check the website as this may change depending on the season.
  • TEL0167-22-1111
  • 駐車場free

The 150m-wide Big Burn is popular for its dynamic long turns.

In addition to the groomed courses, there are eight popular courses where you can enjoy fresh snow.
In addition to the groomed courses, there are eight popular courses where you can enjoy fresh snow.

This ski resort is located on the western slope of Mt. Kamuyama, almost on the border between Asahikawa and Fukagawa. It is well-known for its high-quality snow and carefully maintained courses. There is a good balance of beginner, intermediate and advanced courses, so anyone of any level can enjoy it.
The main course is the 150m-wide "Gold Course," which is rare even in Japan. The wide run is so spacious that it never feels crowded even in the peak season, and you can ski down the slope making turns exactly as you want, which is a great feeling. There is also a course designed for competitions, which is recommended for those who want to experience a sense of speed.

Take a gondola and enjoy an easy approach to the summit overlooking the magnificent Ishikari Plain

The frost-covered forest near the summit is breathtakingly beautiful
The frost-covered forest near the summit is breathtakingly beautiful

The Kamui Gondola runs from the side of the Center House at the base of the mountain to the summit at an altitude of 751m. From the summit to the base of the mountain there is a 4,000m long beginner's course. You can enjoy a long cruise through the forest course and under the gondola. There are plenty Activity for kids, including banana boats and snow rafting. You can watch your children playing from the second floor of the Center House.
Furthermore, you can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at the mountaintop Restaurant, and there will also be a limited-time shop at the base of the mountain where you can taste authentic Asahikawa ramen.

Kamui Ski Links
  • URLhttps://www.kamui-skilinks.com
  • 住所112 Nishioka, Kamui-cho, Asahikawa, Hokkaido MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 30 minutes by car from JR Asahikawa Station
  • バスアクセスTake the shuttle bus from JR Asahikawa Station and get off at "Kamui Ski Links"
  • 営業時間Mid-December 2024 to late March 2025 9:00-17:00 (scheduled)
  • 定休日Open daily
  • 入場料Lift ticket 1-day ticket: Adults 5,300 yen, elementary school students 1,800 yen, seniors 4,500 yen
    *A separate 500 yen (for each card) will be charged for the automatic IC gate, and will be returned when you return the card.
  • TEL0166-72-2311
  • 駐車場free
  • メモThere is a free shuttle bus from "Hoshino Resorts OMO7 Asahikawa" to "Kamui Ski Links" exclusively for guests staying at the hotel.
    For details, please check https://omo-hotels.com/asahikawa/skifeature/​

A blissful powder snow cruise in the world-renowned Niseko area with a magnificent sense of scale

A slope with a view of Mt. Yotei and Erman's birch trees.
A slope with a view of Mt. Yotei and Erman's birch trees.

Niseko's largest ski resort is located on the 1,308m high mountain of Niseko Annupuri. The terrain is blessed with dry snow, and the powder snow is so fine you can't make snowballs there, making it the envy of powder lovers all over the world.
With 13 lifts and gondolas, you can enjoy 22 courses with a wide variety of options. From gentle slopes, forest courses that run through forests like something out of a picture book, to steep slopes with ungroomed snow, there is a wide variety of courses to choose from for everyone from beginners to experts.

Restaurant, cafes and rentals available

"Niseko Tree Burger" 3,200 yen *Information from 2019. Currently out of stock
"Niseko Tree Burger" 3,200 yen *Information from 2019. Currently out of stock

At Restaurant & Cafe Tanta-Ann on the second floor of Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Mountain Center at the foot of the mountain, you can enjoy a variety of Western dishes, mainly steaks, while looking out over Mt. Yotei.
The Mountain Center Annex is also equipped with changing rooms, lockers, and a rental corner. The Japan Brand Corner, which offers ski boards from ROKO SKI, a Niseko-based brand that is particular about "Made in NISEKO," is a must-see. You can enjoy the snow scene to the fullest by finding the rental items that suit you.

Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu
  • URLhttp://www.grand-hirafu.jp/
  • 住所Niseko Hirafu 1-jo 2-chome 9-1, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 120 minutes by car from New Chitose Airport, or approximately 130 minutes by car from JR Sapporo Station
  • 営業時間Daytime: November 30, 2024 (Sat)- March 31, 2025 (Mon)
    Night games: (Sat) December 14, 2024 -(Sun) March 23, 2025 16:00-19:00
  • 定休日Open daily
  • 入場料Lift ticket (regular season/common to Hirafu HANAZONO)
    1-day ticket: 9,500 yen for adults, 5,900 yen for elementary school students, 8,200 yen for junior high school students and seniors
    *This varies depending on the season, so please check the website
    Night ticket: 5,500 yen for adults, 3,300 yen for elementary school students, 4,700 yen for junior high school students and seniors
  • TEL0136-22-0109
  • 駐車場free
  • メモOpening hours and lift ticket prices vary depending on the season, so please check the website

A total of 43km of ski runs, the largest in Hokkaido with 37 courses

Plenty of superb powder snow
Plenty of superb powder snow

Located in Rusutsu Village in southern Hokkaido, this giant resort has a total of 37 courses spread across three mountains. The resort is covered in light, fine, and blissful powder snow with only about 5% moisture.
There is a wide variety of courses and parks, from areas for children to beginners, intermediate and advanced. Among them, the "Side Country Park" dotted with natural terrain and tree-based features is a delight for advanced skiers from Japan and abroad. You can jump and spray powder in the beautiful birch forest, making the most of the superb snow.

Enjoy exclusive gourmet food, Activity, and hot spring that are unique to Rusutsu

The large Outdoor hot spring bath at "Rusutsu hot spring Kotobuki no Yu." On a clear morning, you can see the magnificent mountain range.
The large Outdoor hot spring bath at "Rusutsu hot spring Kotobuki no Yu." On a clear morning, you can see the magnificent mountain range.

Guests highly recommend the food on the slopes. Restaurant Isola 2000 is popular for its Hokkaido-style "Slope Sushi." Also, the cream puff specialty shop Hanamorikuma Rusutsu sells "Garito Choux," a chewy choux pastry filled with cream.
At the resort's "Snow Activity Land," you can Experience snow rafting and dog sledding. A new Public hot spring hot spring bath, "Rusutsu hot spring Kotobuki no Yu," opened in the summer of 2019 and is attracting attention for its spacious baths where you can relax and soothe your tired body after skiing.

Rusutsu Resort
  • URLhttps://rusutsu.com/
  • 住所13 Izumikawa, Rusutsu Village, Abuta District, Hokkaido MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 90 minutes by car from New Chitose Airport or JR Sapporo Station
  • バスアクセスThere is a free direct bus from "Kamori Building 3" near JR Sapporo Station
  • 営業時間Daytime: (Sat)-(Sun) March 30, 2025 9:00-16:00
    Night games: Mid-December 2024 to March 29, 2025 (Sat) 16:00-20:00
  • 定休日Open daily
  • 入場料Lift ticket (regular season/online purchase price)
    1-day ticket: 11,200 yen for adults, 5,400 yen for ages 4-12, 8,300 yen for junior high school, high school and senior citizens
    *This varies depending on the season, so please check the website
    Night ticket: 3,500 yen for adults, 1,200 yen for ages 4-12, 2,300 yen for junior high school students, high school students and seniors

    Snow rafting: Adults 3,100 yen and up, Dog sled 4,400 yen per person, Public hot spring fee: Adults 1,500 yen
  • TEL0136-46-3111
  • 駐車場free
  • メモPlease check the website for opening hours, lift ticket prices, and Activity details.

Experience a first-class Olympic course just 40 minutes by car from Sapporo

The "Olympia Zone" is where the Olympic flame from 1972 remains. You can see the Olympic flame in the background.
The "Olympia Zone" is where the Olympic flame from 1972 remains. You can see the Olympic flame in the background.

This ski resort was the first in Asia to host the Winter Olympics. In recent years, it has hosted the Asian Winter Games (2017) and boasts snow quality and course layouts that even experts would envy.
In the "Olympia Zone" near the base of the mountain, the Olympic flame has been preserved as it was at the time. The "Highland Zone" is the venue where the giant slalom and slalom alpine skiing events were held, and the biggest attraction of this ski resort is that you can ski down the same course as the world's top athletes. Of course, both zones also have courses for beginners and families, and you can enjoy a long cruise of up to about 6km from the summit to the base.

Enjoy skiing freely on a variety of courses while taking in the spectacular views

From the summit of Mt. Teine, which is 1,023 meters above sea level, you can see the Sapporo cityscape, Ishikari Bay, and the Daisetsu mountain range.
From the summit of Mt. Teine, which is 1,023 meters above sea level, you can see the Sapporo cityscape, Ishikari Bay, and the Daisetsu mountain range.

Of the 15 courses, the "Kita Kabe" (North Wall), known as one of the most difficult in the country, stands like a wall from the summit. Advanced skiers who are confident in their skills can head out into the backcountry at their own risk from the "Teine Gate" or enjoy dynamic riding at the "Terrain Park" equipped with jumps and rails, allowing you to enjoy free skiing according to your level.
There is also a dinosaur-themed kids' park where children can have fun. The rental shop sells products from leading manufacturers and also has a wide selection of items for advanced users.

Sapporo Teine Ski Resort
  • URLhttps://sapporo-teine.com/snow/
  • 住所593 Teine Honmachi, Teine Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 40 minutes by car from JR Sapporo Station
  • バスアクセスTake the bus from JR Teine Station and get off at "Teine Olympia" or "Teine Highland"
  • 営業時間Daytime: (Sat)- Tuesday, May 6, 2025 (substitute holiday) 9:00-17:00
    Night games: (Sat) November 30, 2024 -(Sun)
  • 入場料Lift ticket (regular season/online purchase price)
    1-day ticket: 8,000 yen for adults, 5,000 yen for elementary school students and younger, 6,800 yen for junior high school students, high school students and seniors
    *This varies depending on the season, so please check the website
    Night ticket: Junior high school students and above/seniors 2,700 yen, elementary school students and below 1,700 yen
  • TEL011-682-6000
  • 駐車場free
  • メモOperating periods, times, and lift ticket prices vary depending on the season, so please check the website

MAP

Nearby Hoshino Resorts Property
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*The contents listed are current as of the date of article update. They may be subject to change, so please check before using.