Ski Japan

Japan Ski Resorts. Great for Skiing and Snowboarding

Incredible powder skiing and a unique cultural experience

Skiing in Japan Japan has over 500 ski resorts, but the best are found in the northern most island – Hokkaido. Ski resorts here experience more snow than anywhere else in Japan, as the sub Arctic storms race out of Siberia across the Sea of Japan to dump vast loads across Hokkaido. And it is some of the lightest, driest powder snow found anywhere in the world.

As well as the incredible skiing, Japan offers a wonderful cultural experience, making your Japan ski holiday something truly unique. You will enjoy the fascinating and diverse culture and the friendly hospitality of the Japanese people. Awaken your senses with the distinct flavours of Japanese cuisine, relax after a day on the slopes in a natural onsen bath, admire the breathtaking views of the mountains and their surrounds.

We recommend 3 different ski resorts in Hokkaido – Niseko, Rsutsu and Furano.

Ski Niseko, Hokkaido, Japan »

Trail Map

Niseko has legendary tree runs like Strawberry Fields and Miharashi, and there are huge powder fields off The Peak which will "blow your mind".

Easiest
30%

More Difficult
40%

Most Difficult
30%

Extreme Skiing

Ski Rusutsu, Hokkaido, Japan »

Trail Map

Rusutsu is one of Japan's most popular year round resorts, located 90 minutes by bus from Sapporo's Chitose International Airport and one hour from Niseko Ski Resort.

Easiest
30%

More Difficult
40%

Most Difficult
30%

Extreme Skiing

Ski Furano, Hokkaido, Japan »

Trail Map

Furano has an abundance of varied terrain for every level of skier and snowboarder and a vertical drop of over 950 metres, making it one of the steepest mountains in Hokkaido.

Easiest
40%

More Difficult
40%

Most Difficult
20%

Extreme Skiing

You’ll find all types of skiing opportunities for all types of skiers in Hokkaido. From beginner to expert, from steep bowls to tree lined runs to groomed trails to steep blacks, it’s all right there.

All accommodation is on mountain, less than a 10 minute walk or 3 minute shuttle bus from the nearest lift. There is a wide range of different styles of accommodation available, including traditional family-run pensiones and lodges, self-contained luxury apartments and hotels with Japanese and Western style bedding.

Japan time is only three hours behind NZ, and it’s only a 10 hour flight away, making it very convenient for Kiwi skiers. And there’s no jet lag to contend with!
English speaking staff will meet you at the airport, arrange your lift passes, show you where to ride or ski, take you to onsens (hot springs) and provide help and advice as needed.

2008-09

Ron & Christine Blake, have just returned from checking out the 3 main Ski resorts on the island of Hokkaido, Japan- Niseko, Rsutsu and Furano. If you are interested They'd love to share their experiences with you: contact Christine for advice and costs.