Japan’s most prominent ski resorts are known for their world-class powder snow.
In recent years, Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido has received international attention as a powder-hound haven. Here are five of the country’s most appealing ski slopes to check out.
5) Kiroro
SKIING AND VISITING THE CITY
Kiroro is a modern facility located close to Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido. It is a family-oriented complex that offers a variety of enjoyable activities for all ages. Plenty of fresh soft powder snow is available here, and the surrounding spectacular landscape that distinguishes Japan’s northernmost island adds to the experience. There are 21 courses available, with the longest being four kilometers in length. Additionally, the region receives a significant amount of snow, with an annual snowfall of more than 17 meters – even more than the famed Niseko resort.
What is the point of going? The town of Kiroro is not as well-known as other ski resorts on Hokkaido, so it is less busy, but it still has enough facilities to accommodate a full ski vacation.
4) Furano
CATCH A BREATH OF FRESH AIR
Furano, with its tree-lined courses, light dry powder snow, and pleasant, casual ambience, is a superb all-rounder that can accommodate skiers and snowboarders of all skill level and ability. The popular resort is divided into two main zones, with a total of 25 kilometers of well-groomed running trails, as well as a variety of amenities and services. The resort is great for families, as it offers beginner runs as well as an area called “Family Snowland,” which offers enjoyable winter activities for children of all ages.
What is the point of going? Well , Furano is more than simply a typical self-contained ski resort; the town itself is well-known in its own right as one of Hokkaido’s most popular tourist destinations.
3) Rusutsu
FAMILY-FRIENDLY AND LOADED WITH POWDER
Rusutsu is a one-stop-shop ski resort with deep, light powder snow and a diverse choice of activities for the whole family. With 42 kilometers of finely groomed slopes covered in a variety of courses to suit experienced skiers and snowboarders as well as total beginners, it is the largest single ski resort on the island of Hokkaido. Dog sledding, tubing, and snowmobiling are among the activities available to children, while a wide variety of eateries are available to adults.
What is the point of going? Rusutsu is well-known for its excellent powder and off-piste skiing chances, which make it a popular destination for skiers.
2) Moiwa
LEAVE THE LARGE GROUPS BEHIND
Moiwa is a hidden gem in the heart of Niseko, Hokkaido’s world-famous skiing destination. It is located a short distance away from the four main resorts in the area, but it has the same availability of top-quality powder snow with only a fraction of the tourists. Moiwa is unquestionably a small resort, with only eight courses and three lifts, and its longest run is only 2,000 meters long. But there is much to do at the resort, including beautiful scenery, excellent off-piste chances, and an average of 10 meters (33 feet) of snow per year.
What is the point of going? Even though Moiwa is a lesser-known resort compared to the other Niseko resorts, it nonetheless receives a generous amount of beautiful powder snow. As a result, it is the ideal location for carving some fresh trails on beautiful slopes in peace and quiet.
1) Niseko
POWDER EVERY SINGLE DAY
Niseko, Japan’s largest and most famous ski resort, takes first place in this ranking. It is located just southwest of Sapporo and has 47 kilometers of well-groomed terrain with seven ski slopes that receive one of the highest average snowfalls in Japan. It is one of the most popular ski destinations in Japan (at over 15 meters). Known for its deep, high-quality and constant soft powder snow, the resort also has extensive runs that are perfect for families, novices, and intermediates. Because it is so famous, it can get very crowded during peak season – but the lively, multinational atmosphere ensures that you will meet lots of new people.
What is the point of going? There are far too many reasons for Niseko to continually appear on “World’s Best” rankings for skiing and snowboarding to mention them all here. So go ahead and have a look for yourself!
