Everything You Need To Know About Skiing In Hokkaido

Germaine Koh

Writer

Everything You Need To Know About Skiing In Hokkaido

Germaine Koh

Writer

Embark on your next adventure and explore the slopes of Hokkaido! Go skiing during the day, and enjoy the beautiful illuminations and sculptures of the different winter festivals at night. Here’s everything you need to know about skiing in this winter wonderland ⛷

Within the blink of an eye, the year has passed and it’s time to start planning for your year-end holiday! As one of the best places in the world to ski, Hokkaido is the ideal destination for an exciting winter adventure — all while picking up a new skill. That way, you can enjoy Japan’s delicacies without having to worry about packing on the pounds. What a treat!

With its pristine powder snow, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural experiences, Hokkaido is one of the top locations in the world for winter sports enthusiasts. The last time I was there, it felt like the perfect winter wonderland where my family and I could go skiing in the day, pop into an onsen against the backdrop of a beautiful powdery landscape, and then enjoy some of the freshest seafood I’ve ever had in my life. It’s one of those places that are so versatile and would cater to the preferences and needs of young families, restless teens, sports enthusiasts, and young couples looking for a romantic getaway.

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Navigating Hokkaido’s Skiing Season

Everything You Need To Know About Skiing In Hokkaido

The skiing season typically spans from late November to early May, with December to February being the peak season where snowfall is highest. From November onwards, ski resorts start to open up to guests. Snowfall may not be as great at the beginning of the season, so some resorts resort to using snow machines to generate snow for the slopes.

📅 December – February: These months are when the snow is freshest, making the ski experience more enjoyable. However, these are also the coldest months of winter with shorter daylight hours to enjoy your ski adventures. Be sure to layer up and take note of daylight hours so that the conditions are most conducive for you, especially if you’re a beginner!

📅 March: Snow becomes less deep, but temperatures do become less chilly and days get longer. If you’re just starting out, March is usually the best time to pick up the skill in more comfortable conditions. Perfect for families too!

📅 April – May: If you prefer to go skiing away from the typical school holiday months, it’s still not too late to catch the last of the ski season from April to May. The snow starts to melt in lower areas, but slopes on higher altitudes are generally still great and open for skiers.

Everything You Need To Know About Skiing In Hokkaido: Check out our guide on top 10 ski resorts in Hokkaido for all budgets

What To Pack For A Ski Trip

Besides the usual holiday essentials, here are some things you might want to consider bringing along for your next ski trip. You can get everything you need from the comforts of your home, and enjoy up to 12% cashback if you get the items from Shopee, Amazon, and Lazada with your YouTrip card via YouTrip Perks!

🎿 Ski Equipment: Most ski resorts have equipment rental available for rent so that you don’t have to purchase your own gear. However, if you’ve decided to take the plunge, be sure to purchase things like skis, boots, and bindings. Also make sure to have protective gear like a well-fitted helmet, ski goggles, and gloves.

🏂 Apparel: Needless to say, staying dry and keeping warm is one of the most important things to consider when packing for your trip. Dress in layers to make things convenient when you go in and outdoors.

Inner layers: As much as it’s cold, skiing can also be an intense sport that leaves you covered in sweat. It’s important to get moisture-absorbing thermal wear so that you don’t feel sticky and uncomfortable after skiing for longer periods of time

Mid-layers: These layers should be insulating to keep you warm, but also with the flexibility of removing should you start to heat up and feel less chilly on the slopes.

Outer layers: Waterproof and windproof pants and jackets will make all the difference and are worth getting if you intend to spend most of your time outdoors and on the slopes. A huge part of skiing is learning to fall down properly, so be prepared to spend time literally in the snow. Good waterproof outer layers will make sure that you can still stay dry, warm, and well-cushioned as you learn how to pick up the sport.

Shoes: Comfortable and waterproof boots will be your best bet for your ski trip as you get from place to place. You wouldn’t wear these boots onto the slopes, but as with any snow-laden terrain, it’ll be good to have waterproof boots to prevent slipping and the chances of having to walk around all day in soggy shoes and socks.

Accessories: Having a neck gaiter or balaclava will be life-changing when skiing to protect your face from the ice-cold temperatures as you go down the hills which can be quite painful. Things like hand warmers will also make a difference in keeping you warm so that you can stay out on the slopes for as long as possible.

Everything You Need To Know About Skiing In Hokkaido: Enjoy up to 12% cashback with YouTrip Perks here

Safety Tips

As with every sport and activity, there are risks and dangers involved in skiing, so be sure to keep these tips in mind to ensure a pleasant and safe experience to enjoy your adventure:

1️⃣ Equipment Check: Regularly inspect your gear for damage and ensure that your bindings are correctly adjusted
2️⃣ Protective Gear: Always wear a helmet, goggles, and gloves
3️⃣ Surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings, especially when the slopes are crowded to avoid collisions with other skiers and snowboarders
4️⃣ Weather: Stay informed about weather conditions, and heed instructions on whether the slopes are suitable for skiing or not
5️⃣ Terrain: Choose slopes that match your skill level, obey all trail signs and follow safety instructions given

And as always, travel insurance is always a good idea. Travel insurance with great savings is an even greater idea! With the HL Assurance x YouTrip Travel Insurance promotion, get up to 65% in savings when you make payments with your YouTrip card.

Top 10 Ski Resorts In Hokkaido For All Budgets 2023: Find out more about HLAS here

Exploring The Best Ski Towns In Hokkaido:

1. Otaru

Image credits: Unsplash

A charming coastal town near Sapporo, Otaru is known for its historical architecture, canals, and seafood. While the town isn’t a ski resort town, it’s a popular option for those who are planning to do more than just ski, with nearby resorts like Kiroro and Sapporo Teine.

Otaru is also known for its Otaru Snow Light Path Festival or Otaru Yuki Akari no Michi that’s held in early February. It features thousands of snow lanterns and candles lining the streets of Otaru, creating a romantic and magical atmosphere to be in.