Japan is a mountainous stretch of land formed by volcanoes, and the island of Hokkaido is perfectly crafted for skiers to enjoy. Visitors to the northernmost Japanese island will find it to be spacious, mountainous, and cold. Even the low-lying towns of Hokkaido see up to three feet (3 meters) of snowfall in the depths of winter. From newbies to professionals, skiers from all over travel to test their mettle against Hokkaido’s variety of slopes, and we’ve picked out six of the very best Hokkaido ski resorts.
1. Niseko Village Ski Resort
Running from December to April every year, Niseko Village Ski Resort is Hokkaido’s best known ski resort and also one of the most celebrated resorts in all of Japan. The resort has made a name for itself thanks to the sheer quality of snowfall in the area. Skiers and snowboarders come year after year because of the fantastic power they get to enjoy on the Niseko slopes and the exciting sidecountry riding.
Hirafu Village is also a great place to take a day off and relax from skiing with plentiful dining and shopping options. While it can get busy here, the vibe and aesthetics are just as fantastic as the slopes. Due to the popularity of Niseko Village Ski Resort, it caters very well to English speakers, and this is what makes it one of the most appealing ski resorts in Hokkaido, especially for skiers visiting from overseas.
2. Rusutsu Resort
Rusutsu Resort is a well-rounded ski resort offering skiers a wide range of slopes for all skill levels. There are also lessons available and plenty of equipment rental options, so you don’t need to worry about coming fully prepared.
The food at Rusutsu Resort is impressive and caters to a wide range of international tastes as well as a fantastic representation of local cuisine. Beyond skiing and dining, guests can also enjoy everything from relaxing at an onsen to snow rafting and snowmobiling.
3. Sapporo Teine Ski Resort
When it comes to mountaintop views, it’s difficult to top Sapporo Teine Ski Resort. On a clear day visitors can easily enjoy sweeping views of Sapporo City, Ishikari Bay, the Mashike Mountains, and even Daisetsuzan National Park.
The slopes are designed in part with these fantastic views in mind. There’s even an intermediate ski slope named the City View Panorama in the Highland Zone. Teine Ski Resort also offers lessons for beginners.
4. Furano Ski Resort
Furano is one of Hokkaido’s most charming towns. Located at the center of the island, Furano has adopted the nickname “Hokkaido’s Belly Button.” This name has spawned a festival and also attracted more visitors to see its lavender fields in the summer and its legendary ski resort in the winter.
Covering twin peaks, Furano Ski Resort is home to hot springs, slopes for skiing and snowboarding, and even unique festival activities. What makes Furano Ski Resort unique is the fact that it offers the opportunity to go dog-sledding across its slopes, hot air balloon rides over the peaks, and the Furano Ski Festival, which takes place on the first two days of February.
5. Tomamu Ski Resort
Tomamu Ski Resort is one of the lesser known but more extravagant ski resorts in Hokkaido. WFewer skiers come here from overseas so you’ll find it to be quieter. However, also full of varied activities beyond just skiing and snowboarding. Located near Hidaka National Park, Tomamu Ski Resort is easily recognizable thanks to its enormous hotel towers.
As for the skiing, Tomamu offers an impressively varied landscape of terrain that’s ideal for all skill levels. That means there’s plenty to keep you busy and challenged during your time at the resort. Tomamu is also one of the most family-friendly resorts in Hokkaido. You’ll find a ski school, beginner slopes, and plenty of activities for children.
6. Sahoro Ski Resort
Sahoro Ski Resort is a purely minimalist skiing experience. People come here to ski, to enjoy some of the finest powdery snow in Hokkaido, and enjoy unparalleled views of the Tokachi Plains. You won’t find bountiful activities outside of those on the slopes.
Sahoro Ski Resort offers a balanced mix of beginner, intermediate, and expert slopes for visitors. Although the resort is tilted towards skiers, there are plenty of slopes accessible to snowboarders. The local food on offer here is also outstanding. Also, those who come unprepared are able to rent whatever they need to get out and enjoying the slopes.
