Local Guide
 2026 Edition] 6 Popular Ski Resorts in Hokkaido, a Powder Snow Paradise

Hokkaido in winter is known as a "powder paradise," where you can fully enjoy the wonderful powder snow. The quality of snow is completely different from that of Honshu, and you can enjoy a great floating feeling. Hokkaido also offers great views from the slopes of the beautiful mountains and the white-silver landscape that stretches on to the far side of the island. The snow activities and après-ski programs are also very good, so you can fully enjoy the winter resort atmosphere. Here are some of the most popular ski resorts in Hokkaido.

The best snow resort where you can enjoy smooth snow.

 Spanning two mountains, this big scale ski resort is about 26 times the size of the Tokyo Dome!
Spanning two mountains, this big scale ski resort is about 26 times the size of the Tokyo Dome!

Tomamu, located in Shimukappu Village in the center of Hokkaido, is an extremely cold place, with temperatures as low as -30°C in winter. The snow that falls there is so fine and powdery that it is called "powder snow," a far cry from the snow that falls on the mainland. This is one of the best snow resorts in Japan, where you can enjoy the best quality snow on a wide variety of slopes. There are 29 courses, ranging from gentle slopes to thrilling unpressurized courses. Ridge runs with a view of Mt. Daisetsuzan in the distance and wide runs leading to the two hotel buildings are full of the real thrill of "THE Hokkaido skiing".

Storybook family slopes where you can improve while having adventures

 Original characters
Original characters "Nipo" and "Chokkari Daimajin". They love skiing and snowboarding while skiing together!

The "Adventure Mountain" story-type family slopes are popular among families, drawing out children's curiosity and spirit of challenge, and leading them to progress while having fun.
Children become the heroes of the story and take on the challenges of various missions on a total of 11 courses in two stages: "Nipo's Mountain" for beginners and the more advanced "Chokkari Mountain. Children can enjoy skiing while having adventures in a role-playing game-like world, so the Experience itself leads to the joy of progress and allows them to naturally acquire skills.

Hoshino Resorts Tomamu Snow Park & Resort
  • Address Tomamu, Shimukappu Village, Yufutsu-gun, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction 5 minutes drive from JR Tomamu Station
  •  Bus Direction Free shuttle bus from JR Tomamu Station
  •  Hours of Operation December 1, 2025 (Mon) - April 5, 2026 (Sun)
    Lift operation: 8:45-18:00 (operation after 16:00 is available from Dec. 26 to Mar. 31)
  •  Closed No holidays
  •  Admission Fee Lift 1-day pass: Adults 8,000 yen, elementary school students 6,000 yen
  •  TEL 0167-58-1111
  •  Parking Free of charge
  •  Memo Operating periods and hours are subject to change depending on snow conditions. Lift ticket prices vary depending on the season and other factors. Please check the website for details.

About 80% of the courses are beginner and intermediate. A well-known ski resort that has been loved for a long time.

 Family slope
Family slope" with wide single slope and gentle slopes

Conveniently located about 10 minutes by car from downtown Furano, it is popular for its sightseeing and gourmet food. 28 courses, of which only about 20% are for advanced skiers, the rest are for beginners and intermediate skiers with an average slope of about 15 degrees. The pleasant snow quality is perfect for skiing while enjoying the resort atmosphere, or for practicing to improve your skiing skills. The layout that makes the most of the terrain is also attractive, with a variety of gentle and steep courses through the woods and downhill courses with panoramic views of Tokachi-dake and the Daisetsuzan mountain range.
A gondola and ropeway take you to the top of the mountain, where a long run of 3 to 4 km awaits you.

A variety of snow play and after-ski programs are also available.

 Kids' smiles are in full bloom at
Kids' smiles are in full bloom at "FURANO Snowland

At the foot of the mountain is the family-oriented area "FURANO Snowland," where you can enjoy banana boats and snowmobiles. At night, the night activity area "Furano Kankanmura" is open. Visitors can enjoy snow tubing and other activities under the fantastic lights.
Furano Ski Resort has been visited by mountain skiers since the Meiji era (1868-1912), and has hosted the FIS (Federation Internationale de Ski) World Cup 10 times, as well as the Snowboard World Cup, making it a favorite of top-class skiers from around the world.

Furano Ski Resort
  • Address Furano-shi, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction 10 minutes by car from JR Furano Station
  •   Direction Take a bus from JR Furano Station and get off at Furano Prince Hotel or New Furano Prince Hotel.
  •  Hours of Operation Daytime: November 29, 2025 (Sat) - May 6, 2026 (Mon) 8:30 - 16:00 or sunset
    Night skiing: Mid-December, 2025 - March 21, 2026 (Sat) scheduled 16:00 - 19:30 (Sun) *Close at 18:00 on weekdays
  •  Regular holiday None during the operating period *Period and hours of operation may be subject to change due to weather and snow accumulation
  •  Admission Fee Lift tickets (regular season)
    One-day pass: Adults ¥8,000, Seniors ¥7,500 (free for elementary school students and younger)
    Night skiing tickets: Adults from 2,900 yen, seniors from 2,700 yen
    *Depends on the day of the week, time of year, etc., so please check the website.
  •  TEL 0167-22-1111
  •  Parking Free of charge

The 150-meter wide big snow slope is popular for dynamic long turns!

 In addition to well-maintained courses, there are 8 unpaved courses popular for enjoying fresh snow.
In addition to well-maintained courses, there are 8 unpaved courses popular for enjoying fresh snow.

The ski resort is located on the western slope of Kamui Mountain, almost on the border of Asahikawa City and Fukagawa City. Kamuiyama. It has a reputation for its high quality snow and well-maintained courses. The ski area has a well-balanced distribution of beginner, intermediate, and advanced courses, so all levels of skiers can enjoy skiing.
The main course is the "Gold" course, which is 150 meters wide, a rarity in Japan. Even in high season, you will not feel crowded on this spacious course, and it is a great feeling to be able to ski while drawing turns as you wish. There is also a course designed for competitions, recommended for those who want to experience the feeling of speed.

Gondola ride to the top of the mountain overlooking the magnificent Ishikari Plain is easy!

 Breathtaking ice forests near the top of the mountain
Breathtaking ice forests near the top of the mountain

The Kamui Gondola runs from the "Center House" at the foot of the mountain to the 751-meter-high summit. From the summit to the foot of the mountain, there is a 4,000-meter-long beginner course. Visitors can enjoy a long cruise along the forest course and under the gondola. For kids, there are a variety of activities such as banana boats and snow rafting. You can watch your children playing from the second floor of the center house.
In addition, visitors can enjoy an authentic Italian menu at the summit Restaurant, and for a limited time, they can taste authentic Asahikawa Ramen at the foot of the mountain.

Kamui Ski Rinks
  • Address 112 Nishigaoka, Kamii-machi, Asahikawa, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction Approx. 30 min. from JR Asahikawa Station by car.
  •   Direction Take a connecting bus from JR Asahikawa Station and get off at Kamui Ski Rinks.
  •  Hours of Operation Mid-December 2025 - Late March 2026 9:00 - 17:00 (scheduled)
  •  Closed No holidays
  •  Admission Fee Lift ticket 1-day pass: Adults 5,300 yen, elementary school students 1,800 yen, seniors 4,500 yen
    500 yen (per card) will be charged separately for the automatic IC gate card, which will be returned when the card is returned.
  •  TEL Return the card when you return it. 0166-72-2311
  •  Parking Free of charge
  •  Memo Free shuttle bus service from "OMO7 Asahikawa by Hoshino Resorts" to "Comey Ski Rinks" is available only for hotel guests.
    For details, please visit https://hoshinoresorts.com/en/hotels/omo7asahikawa/sp/ski/ Confirmation required

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

 The slopes are lined with birch trees and offer a panoramic view of Mount Yotei.
The slopes are lined with birch trees and offer a panoramic view of Mount Yotei.

Niseko Annupuri is the largest ski resort in Niseko, located at an elevation of 1,308 meters above sea level. Blessed with dry snow due to its topography, the powdery snow is so good that it is impossible to make snowballs, making it a favorite of powder freaks from all over the world.
Thirteen lifts and gondolas offer a wide variety of 22 courses for you to enjoy. From gentle slopes to picture-book forest courses through forests and steep, unpressurized slopes, there are a variety of courses to suit all levels of skiers, from beginners to experts.

Restaurants, cafes, and rentals are also available.

 Niseko Tree Burger
Niseko Tree Burger" 3,200 yen *Information for 2019. Currently no longer available.

At the Restaurant & Cafe Tanta Anne on the second floor of the Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Mountain Center at the foot of the mountain, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of Western cuisine, especially steaks, while enjoying the view of Mount Yotei.
The Mountain Center Annex is also equipped with changing rooms, lockers, and a rental corner. The "Japan Brand Corner," which stocks ski boards made in Niseko by ROKO SKI and other brands, is a must-see, and you can enjoy the snow scene to the fullest with rental items that suit you.

Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu
  • Address 2-9-1, Niseko Hirafu 1-jo, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction Approximately 120 minutes from New Chitose Airport by car or 130 minutes from JR Sapporo Station by car.
  •  Hours of Operation Daytime: November 29, 2025 (Sat) - May 6, 2025 (Wed)
    Night skiing: December 13, 2025 (Sat) - March 22, 2025 (Sun) 16:00-19:00
  •  Closed No holidays
  •  Admission Fee Lift tickets (for both regular season and Hirafu HANAZONO)
    One-day pass: Adults 10,400 yen, Junior high school students and seniors 8,900 yen, 4-12 years old 6,200 yen
    (*Depends on the season, so please check the website.
    Night skiing ticket: Adults 5,400 yen, Junior high school students and seniors 4,500 yen, 4-12 years old 3,200 yen
  •  TEL 0136-22-0109
  •  Parking Free of charge
  •  Memo Operating hours and lift ticket prices vary depending on the season, so please check the website.

37 courses with a total run distance of 43km, the largest in Hokkaido

 Lots of great powder snow!
Lots of great powder snow!

Located in the village of Rusutsu in southern Hokkaido, Giant Resort offers a total of 37 courses on three mountains. The resort is filled with light, fine powder snow with only about 5% water content.
There is a wide variety of courses and parks, from children-only areas to beginner, intermediate, and advanced courses. The "Sidecountry Park," which is dotted with items using natural terrain and trees, is particularly popular with advanced skiers from Japan and abroad. Jumping and raising powder spray in the beautiful birch forests, you can enjoy the finest snow to the fullest.

Enjoy the unique Rusutsu cuisine, activities, and hot spring baths!

 Outdoor hot spring at the Kotobuki-no-yu hot spring in Rusutsu. On sunny mornings, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the magnificent mountain range.
Outdoor hot spring at the Kotobuki-no-yu hot spring in Rusutsu. On sunny mornings, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the magnificent mountain range.

The food on the slopes is highly rated by guests. At Restaurant "Izola 2000," the "slope sushi," a typical Hokkaido dish, is very popular. In addition, the cream puff specialty store "Hanamorikuma Rusutsu" sells "Garitto Choux," which are filled with cream in a chewy puff pastry.
At the resort's Snow Activity Land, visitors can experience snow rafting, dog sledding, and other activities. Public hot spring "Rusutsu Onsen Kotobuki-no-Yu" is also available, where you can relax and heal your body after a hard day's skiing in the spacious hot spring bath.

Rusutsu Resort
  • Address 13 Aza Izumikawa, Rusutsu-mura, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction Approximately 90 minutes by car from New Chitose Airport or JR Sapporo Station
  •   Direction Free direct bus service available from "Kamori Building 3" near JR Sapporo Station
  •  Hours of Operation Daytime: November 29, 2025 (Sat) (tentative) - March 31, 2026 (Sun) 9:00 - 16:00
    Night skiing: December 20, 2025 (Sat) - March 15, 2026 (Sun) 16:00 - 20:00
  •  Closed No holidays
  •  Admission Fee Lift tickets (regular season/purchase price online)
    1-day pass: Adults 12,000 yen, 4-12 years old 5,800 yen, junior high, high school students and seniors 8,900 yen
    *Varies depending on the season, so please check the website.
    Night skiing: Adults 3,800 yen, 4-12 years old 1,300 yen, junior high school, high school students, and seniors 2,500 yen

    Snow rafting: Adults 3,300 yen and up, dog sledding 5,830 yen per person, Public hot spring fee: Adults 1,500 yen
  •  TEL 0136-46-3111
  •  Parking Free of charge
  •  Memo For hours of operation, lift ticket prices, and details on Activities, please check the website.

Experience the first-class course that hosted the Olympics, a 40-minute drive from Sapporo!

 The torch stand from 1972 remains in the
The torch stand from 1972 remains in the "Olympia Zone. The torch stand can be seen in the back.

The ski resort was the site of Asia's first Winter Olympic Games. It has also hosted the Asian Winter Games (2017) and other events in recent years, and boasts snow quality and course layouts that even experts adore.
In the "Olympia Zone" near the foot of the mountain, the torch stand has been preserved as it was at the time of the Olympics. The "Highland Zone" is the venue where the giant slalom and slalom of the Alpine skiing competitions took place, and being able to ski the same courses as the world's top athletes is the main attraction of this ski resort. Of course, both zones also have courses for beginners and families, and you can enjoy a long cruise of up to 6 km from the top of the mountain to the bottom.

Free skiing on a variety of courses with spectacular views

 From the top of Teineyama, 1,023 meters above sea level, you can see the city of Sapporo, Ishikari Bay, and the Daisetsuzan mountain range.
From the top of Teineyama, 1,023 meters above sea level, you can see the city of Sapporo, Ishikari Bay, and the Daisetsuzan mountain range.

Of the 15 courses, one of the most difficult courses in the country is known as "Kitakabe," which stands like a wall from the top of the mountain. Experienced skiers can enjoy free-riding according to their level, going into the backcountry at their own risk through the "Teine Gate" or riding dynamically in the "Terrain Park," which is equipped with jumps and rails.
There is also a dinosaur-themed kids' park where children can have fun. The rental store carries products from top manufacturers and has a full lineup of advanced items.

Sapporo Teine Ski Resort
  • Address 593 Teinehonmachi, Teinei-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction Approximately 40 minutes from JR Sapporo Station by car
  •   Direction Take a bus from JR Teine Station and get off at Teine Olympia or Teine Highland.
  •  Hours of Operation Daytime: November 22, 2025 (Sat) - early May, 2026 9:00-17:00
    Night skiing: November 22, 2025 (Sat) - early May, 2026 (scheduled) 16:00 - 20:00
  •  Admission Fee Lift tickets (regular season/purchase price online)
    One-day pass: Adults 8,400 yen, elementary school students and under 5,200 yen, junior high school, high school students, and seniors 7,100 yen
    *Differ depending on the season, so please check the website.
    Night skiing ticket: 2,800 yen for junior high school students and older and seniors, 1,800 yen for elementary school students and younger
  •  TEL 011-682-6000
  •  Parking Free of charge
  •  Memo Operating periods, hours, and lift ticket prices vary depending on the season, so please check the website.
The information in this article is current as of the date of the update. Please check before visiting as they are subject to change.