My Eastern Hokkaido

View Original

8 Best Ski Resort Hotels in Hokkaido (2024)

Looking for where to stay for your ski trip to Hokkaido? Here are the 8 best ski resort hotels with great access to Hokkaido’s famous ski slopes - Niseko, Rusutsu, Furano, and Kiroro.

From luxury stay to budget options, I’ve got you covered. Hope you find your perfect getaway✨

See this content in the original post

This post contains affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission to enjoy a cup of coffee on my trip☕

Hokkaido Ski Resort Map

While there are many other ski resorts in Hokkaido, here are some of the most popular and best ski areas that are easily accessible.

Niseko

Niseko is a sprawling winter wonderland comprising four distinct ski areas. Blessed with the finest powder snow, the resort offers a terrain rich in variety, catering to skiers of all skill levels—from beginners to experts. These ski areas are connected at the summit, making it convenient to travel between them via lifts, gondolas, or buses.

🗓️ Early December to early April (a couple slopes until early May)
🚌 3 hours by bus from Sapporo
🚗 2 hours from Sapporo

Rusutsu

Rusutsu Resort is a paradise for skiers. With a total of 37 courses spread across three mountains—West, East, and Isola—the resort boasts a combined ski run distance of 42 km, filled with variety to satisfy everyone. The resort features a Snow Park for freestyle snowboarders, as well as a Kids' Park and schools offering sledding and tubing for younger visitors.

🗓️ Late November to late March
🚌 2 hours by bus from Sapporo
🚗 1.5 hours from Sapporo

Furano

Furano Ski Resort offers onsite hotels and restaurants for a complete ski holiday experience. The resort is divided into two main zones, which are connected by lifts for easy transit. With a combined 25 courses spanning an expansive terrain that ranks among Hokkaido's finest, the resort accommodates everyone from beginners to experts.

🗓️ Late November to early May
🚌 1 hour by train from JR Asahikawa
🚗 1.5 hour from Asahiakwa

Kiroro

Known for having the most snowfall in Hokkaido, Kiroro is a relatively new ski resort that impresses with its high-speed lifts and modern amenities. The resort mostly features slopes with gentle inclines, making it particularly favorable for beginners. Beyond skiing, Kiroro offers a range of activities, from sledding and tubing in its Snow Park to mini snowmobiling and snowshoe trekking.

🗓️ Early December to early May
🚌 1 hour by bus from JR Otaru
🚗 1 hour from Sapporo


See this content in the original post

Image by The Green Leaf, Niseko Village

Mountain retreat with ski-in, ski-out, and onsen

Nestled adjacent to Niseko Village's Next Stage ski slope, The Green Leaf offers an unparalleled ski-in, ski-out experience in the heart of winter wonderland. Beyond its prime location, the hotel caters to the needs of winter adventurers with a range of facilities, including onsen baths for relaxation, and convenient services like ski and snowboard rentals, as well as lift ticket sales.

The hotel, with its 200 rooms, presents a serene ambiance and breathtaking views, making it especially accommodating for families. From comfortable king and twin rooms to spacious corner suites, The Green Leaf ensures a tranquil retreat for all those who share a passion for the mountains.

⭐4 stars, ♨️Hot Spring, 🎿Gear rental

See this content in the original post

Image by Lodge 401 Niseko Annupuri

Secluded charm near Annupuri gondola, newly renovated with friendly hospitality

If you seek solace away from the crowds, Lodge 401 in Niseko Annupuri Ski Slope beckons with its fantastic location just a short walk from the gondola. The lodge boasts a newly renovated, cozy ambiance, creating an inviting atmosphere for guests. The spacious drying area for clothes and gear ensures convenience after a day on the slopes.

Run by amiable staff celebrated for their warm hospitality, Lodge 401 is renowned for serving delicious hot breakfast in its communal dining/bar area. Embrace the charm of seclusion in this welcoming mountain retreat.

⭐ 2 stars, 🧡Amazing Hospitality, 🍴Great Breakfast

See this content in the original post

Image by The Westin Rusutsu Resort

Ski-in, ski-out luxury in Rusutsu with panoramic mountain views.

The Westin Rusutsu Resort, nestled in the heart of Hokkaido's Rusutsu, offers a resort experience like no other, surrounded by majestic mountain vistas and powder snow. Boasting ski-in, ski-out accessibility, guests can effortlessly immerse themselves in the winter wonderland.

The ski area features three peaks, four gondolas, and 14 lifts, with a diverse layout of 37 courses catering to all skill levels. From wide gentle slopes for beginners to challenging runs satisfying advanced skiers, the options are abundant.

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, the resort provides a variety of winter activities, including snowmobile rides, dog sledding, and more. Whether you're seeking thrilling adventures on the slopes or cozy moments by the fireplace, The Westin Rusutsu Resort promises an unforgettable winter retreat.

⭐4 stars, ♨️Hot Spring, ✨Modern Design

See this content in the original post

Image by Lodge Romulus

Affordable and cozy retreat for solo or small groups.

Ideal for solo travelers or small groups of 2-3 people seeking an intimate and budget-friendly escape, Lodge Romulus exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Nestled at the foothills of Mount Yotei, this charming hotel enhances your Rusutsu experience with the picturesque beauty of Hokkaido's four seasons. Embrace the winter wonderland with snow-covered landscapes perfect for skiing and snowboarding.

Each room at Hotel Romulus is equipped with essential amenities, including a private bathroom, TV, mini-fridge, heating, and complimentary Wi-Fi. A mere 10-minute walk to the convenience store adds to the convenience. For easy access to the ski resort, the lodge offers shuttle services, a mere 1-2 minutes by car, ensuring a seamless transition from your cozy accommodation to the snowy slopes.

⭐ 2 stars, 💰Budget stay, 👀 Beautiful View

See this content in the original post

Image by Shin Furano Prince Hotel

Easy access to the ski slopes, free shuttle, and winter fun

Shin Furano Prince offers the perfect blend of convenience and winter excitement, with direct access to the ski slopes and a complimentary shuttle from the hotel to the ski area. Enhance your skiing experience with the convenience of on-site ski and winterwear rental services, including ski lessons for all skill levels.

After a day on the slopes, unwind in the hotel's natural hot springs. Families with children can enjoy the adjacent "FURANO Snow Land" winter activity area, featuring snow rafting and snowmobiling for an exciting family adventure.

Hop on the "Furano Evening Shuttle Bus" connecting the hotel and Furano city to explore local flavors like Jingisukan (Hokkaido-style lamb BBQ) and Asahikawa ramen. Experience the best of winter sports, relaxation, and culinary delights at Shin Furano Prince.

⭐4 stars, ♨️Hot Spring, 🎿Gear rental

See this content in the original post

Image by Hotel Naturwald Furano

A 2-minute walk from Furano Ski Resort, embracing nature's beauty

Immerse yourself in the charm of Furano at Hotel Naturwald, just a short 2-minute walk from the renowned Furano Ski Resort. The hotel offers a perfect retreat for families, where summer unveils vast lavender fields and expansive nature, while winter welcomes enthusiasts to indulge in thrilling winter sports.

Enjoy buffets featuring fresh local ingredients from Furano. The onsen, complete with an open-air bath, provides a serene escape to unwind after a day of exploration.

Designed with families in mind, the hotel provides cozy rooms and a range of services, amenities, and rental items, including baby-friendly accommodations and essentials like strollers and baby beds. Hotel Naturwald Furano invites you to create lasting memories in the natural wonders of Furano.

⭐3 stars, 👨‍👩‍👧For Family, ♨️Hot Spring

See this content in the original post

Image by Yu Kiroro

Luxury condominium hotel at Kiroro Ski Resort, just 45 minutes from Niseko and Rusutsu.

Experience the epitome of relaxation and adventure at Yu Kiroro, a condominium hotel meticulously designed for your ultimate comfort. Offering ski-in, ski-out accessibility, the residence is a mere 3-minute walk to the gondola station and provides a complimentary shuttle to the slopes.

Indulge in the luxury of an onsen, available at your convenience, with the option for private reservations at an additional cost. Enhance your well-being with 24-hour access to a state-of-the-art gym, ensuring a fulfilling workout experience throughout your stay.

Yu Kiroro invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Powder Triangle, where seamless access to the slopes meets the pinnacle of relaxation and adventure.

⭐4 stars, 💖Luxury Stay, ♨️Hot Spring


Looking for more getaways?

See this gallery in the original post