10 Most Recommended Ski Resorts in the Sapporo Area

Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort has exquisite powder snow across a total of 7 slopes. The season here is relatively long, staying open for 6 months. The focus is on a wide range of slopes for beginners, and the total distance from the Forest Trail to Märchen Trail is an impressive 3.6 kilometres. The gentle slopes of the Family Trail and Woody Trail are also popular.

There are also steep slopes for intermediate and advanced skiers, so there’s something for everyone. Also check out the Snow Escalator for first-time skiers to practice and the Snow Park for sledging.

Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park is full of activities throughout the year. In summer, the paddling pools, campsite and fishing ponds are crowded with people, and in winter when it snows, Takino Snow World comes into its element. The wide and spacious 7-degree slope is perfect for first-time skiers and snowboarders.

The lifts here move slowly, making them safe to ride with children. You can rent all the necessary equipment on-site. A snow tube for families to enjoy sledging is another popular feature.

About an hour from Sapporo, Kiroro Resort isn't far from the historic port town of Otaru. The total of 23 courses connecting the mountains of Asari and Nagamine are suitable for a wide range of skiers. Here you can enjoy the powder snow unique to Hokkaido throughout the season.

With a hotel right next to the ski slopes, you might want to spend a few days here and hit the slopes whenever you fancy. There are even pool and hot spring facilities to use. The restaurants here cover the full range from basic through to luxury.

Sapporo Bankei Ski Area is about 20 minutes from Hokkaido. There are 14 slopes in total in addition to a full-scale competition slope and half pipe for top athletes that formed a venue for the Asian Winter Games. Also check out the family-friendly Waku Snow Land where you can enjoy sledging, snow tubes, snow striders, and other snow activities.

It's open until late at night, and there are special rates such as simple no-equipment rates as well as rates for tourists including meals. The ski school for both children and adults is also very popular.

Sapporo Teine mountain ski resort is located on Mt. Teine, which overlooks the Ishikari Plain. It was used as a competition venue in the Sapporo Winter Olympics, and its world-class snow quality, slopes, and magnificent nature typical of Hokkaido attract many skiers. With a total of 15 slopes and plenty of lifts and gondolas, it’s suitable for everyone from kids to top athletes. Check out the popular night skiing options for some truly dazzling views from the summit.

There are ski centre bases at two different locations, where you’ll find coffee shops and restaurants. There are even various discount plans for families.

The entire Mt. Tengu, which overlooks the city and harbour of Otaru, forms Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway Ski Resort with an observatory at the top that has been awarded a star in Michelin Green Guide Japan.

From gentle slopes for families with children to newly designed steep slopes, there are 6 slopes for everyone to enjoy the spectacular views while skiing or snowboarding. Take a break at the café if you want to relax and enjoy the night view. This is a great addition to any winter sightseeing tour of Otaru.

Snow Cruise Onze is a great ski resort for first-time skiers, as most of the slopes have been designed with beginners in mind. The 1,500-metre-long Easy Line, which starts at the top of the mountain, is popular for its spectacular views of the Sea of Japan. Over on the Forest Slope, you can immerse yourself in the mountain environment surrounded by trees.

Fun Park, opening in 2022, is a slope dedicated to jumps and box skiing. Children can enjoy sledging at the EZ 6 family area. Night skiing with LED lighting is another big draw.

Snowboards aren’t permitted at Sapporo Mt. Moiwa Ski Resort, so small children and beginners who have just started skiing can enjoy the mountains in full safety. There are 10 slopes on Mt. Moiwa, which overlooks the entire city of Sapporo. Many of these slopes are open for night skiing, and the beauty of the night view will take your breath away.

There’s a variety of challenging slopes for intermediate and advanced skiers, including steep slopes, moguls, and forest slopes - so you won’t be getting bored any time soon.

Asarigawa Onsen Ski Resort is a popular ski resort in Asarigawa Onsen Village in Otaru, a little off the beaten track but well worth exploring. It’s a little-known but recommended spot for tourists because you can enjoy hot springs and skiing together with spectacular views of the Sea of Japan. Local skiers love this place because the elevation is relatively low and the ski lift operates even on windy days.

The undulating slopes here will intermediate and advanced skiers alike. You can also taste the thrill of a deep snow ride through the trees in the non-compacted snow area. You’ll find a variety of areas for beginners, too, such as the family-friendly Snowland area with its net partition for little ones to enjoy playing with the snow.

If you want to enjoy skiing in Hakodate in southern Hokkaido, head to Hakodate Nanae Snow Park. It’s famous for one of the longest gondolas in Japan, and you can stroll in the air while enjoying the views of Koma-ga-take below. With long, wide, and gentle slopes, you’ll feel safe even if this is your first ski or snowboard experience.

For intermediate and advanced skiers, the ungroomed slopes in a completely natural landscape are also popular. You can rent or buy everything you might need on-site, so feel free to visit without bringing any equipment.