Chasing Japow: Top Ski Destinations in Hokkaido

Hokkaido is one of the world’s best places for skiing — amazing powder snow, beautiful scenery, and resorts to fit all levels. Here are some of the best ski resorts in Hokkaido, plus what makes each special, so you can pick the ones that suit your style:

Niseko United

(Grand Hirafu, Annupuri, Hanazono, Village)

• Very iconic. Huge amounts of light, fluffy powder (japow). Great variety of terrain. Strong international vibe. Night skiing available.

• Powder lovers, freestyle snowboarders, people wanting amenities + apres-ski, international crowd.

Rusutsu Resort

• Three peaks (West, East, Mt. Isola); 37 courses totalling ~42 km. Tree runs, off-piste, also good for families. Near Mt. Yotei so very scenic.

• Those who want variety, quieter slopes than Niseko, excellent powder + scenic views.

Furano Ski Resort

• Great vertical drop (~964m), long runs, excellent snow quality. Mix of difficulty levels. Also located in more central Hokkaido, which can be handy.

• Intermediate to advanced skiers, people wanting a more Japanese-mountain-town feel, maybe fewer crowds.

Kiroro

• Less famous than Niseko / Rusutsu but gets incredible snow and has good lift infrastructure. More secluded, serene. Peaceful ski trips, people who prefer ski resorts off the beaten tourism path but still high quality.

Tomamu

• High-end resort, ski-in/ski-out lodging, good facilities, family friendly.

• High-end resort, ski-in/ski-out lodging, good facilities, family friendly.

Sapporo Teine

• Close to Sapporo city. Convenient if you are based in Sapporo. Moderate vertical ~683m. Nice for day trips.

• Beginners / intermediates, people who want to combine ski + city / short-trip style.