Perfect for First-Timers! Nine Local Beginner-Friendly Ski Resorts

Perfect for First-Timers! Nine Local Beginner-Friendly Ski Resorts

In addition to large-scale ski resorts like Niseko, Tomamu, and Furano that are well-known both in Japan and around the world, Hokkaido is home to several ski areas rooted in their respective local communities. In this installment, we would like to highlight some “beginner-friendly” ski resorts where novice skiers and overseas tourists who are not accustomed to the snow can have a great time without feeling overwhelmed.

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Central Hokkaido Area

Takino Snow World (Sapporo)

Takino Suzuran Hillside National Government Park, about a 30-minute bus ride from Sapporo Municipal Subway's Makomanai Station, transforms into Takino Snow World from late December to the end of March. Located at a higher elevation than central Sapporo with lower temperatures, it offers fluffy powder snow to enjoy.


This slope is 250 meters long with an average gradient of 7 degrees, making it gentle and ideal for those practicing skiing for the first time. The two-person lift operates at a slow speed, ensuring beginners feel safe.

*Some facilities may be unavailable depending on snow conditions.

Orofure Ski Grounds (Sobetsu)

Located at the foot of Orofure Pass, these ski grounds offer easy access just 25 minutes from Toyako Onsen. Though it has only one lift, the expansive slopes feature a variety of courses, making it enjoyable for everyone from families to groups.


While not a large ski resort, it boasts excellent snow quality and slopes with a maximum gradient of 25 degrees, making it a hidden gem that even advanced skiers will appreciate.

Kitanaganuma Ski Area (Naganuma)

This ski area, located on the northern slope of Mt. Umaoi, offers magnificent views over the Ishikari Plain and is also renowned for its excellent snow quality. Situated just 30 km from Sapporo, it is conveniently close to the downtown area. Equipped with night lighting and other facilities, it is popular as a family-friendly ski resort.


The lift system features one single chairlift and two double chairlifts, totaling three lifts. The course is long with gentle slopes, allowing beginners to ski with peace of mind.

Katsurazawa Kokusetsu Ski Resort (Mikasa)

Katsurazawa Kokusetsu Ski Resort, is located adjacent to the prefectural natural park, Lake Katsurazawa. It is a ski resort where you can enjoy powder snow on its north-facing slopes known for excellent snow quality. Courses are available for all skill levels, including beginner courses alongside intermediate and advanced ones, allowing you to ski your preferred style in accordance with your ability.


On weekends and national holidays, the Kids Park is open, offering tube slides and play equipment. It is a popular destination for families.

Eastern Hokkaido Area

Shintokuyama Ski Area (Shintoku)

This ski area, just a 7-minute walk from JR Shintoku Station and close to the town center, offers fun for everyone from beginners to advanced skiers. The views from the summit are spectacular, allowing you to ski while gazing at distant peaks like Mt. Me-akan and the Daisetsuzan Mountain Range.


One double chairlift at the center of the slopes and three courses for different skill levels offer a diverse range of runs in a relatively modest area. Getting off at the mid-station of the double chairlift brings you to a gentle slope extending downward, making it ideal for beginners.

Makubetsu Hakugindai Ski Resort (Makubetsu)

It is the only ski resort in Southern Tokachi, featuring a well-rounded course layout with just two runs offering enjoyable skiing for everyone from beginners to advanced skiers. Equipped with a double chairlift and night lighting, the resort offers an exhilarating skiing experience.


From the slopes, you can enjoy amazing panoramic views including the Tokachi Plains and the Hidaka Mountains, allowing you to ski while taking in the scenery. Additionally, there's a spacious sledding area, making this a popular ski resort for families on weekends.

Akan Royal Valley Ski Area (Kushiro City)

Experience the grandeur of Akan's nature at this exceptionally spacious ski resort. Wide beginner and intermediate slopes make it perfect for families. From the summit, the towering mountains and vast landscape spread out right before your eyes, allowing you to glide down gentle slopes while enjoying the scenery.


For those seeking a genuine skiing experience, we recommend the run from the summit to the base. For beginners or those wanting to practice, the run from mid-mountain to the base is ideal.

Northern Hokkaido Area

Esashicho Mikasayama Ski Area (Esashi)

This is a ski area operated by the town of Esashi on the Okhotsk coast. Starting in early February, it offers a rare experience among Hokkaido ski resorts. Visitors can ski while enjoying views of the drift ice that travels all the way from Russia to the Sea of Okhotsk.


From advanced courses with a 26-degree slope to long beginner courses, they offer a wide range of options. Blending seamlessly into the local winter lifestyle, the ski area provides a sense of security and is beloved by many.

Shibetsu Hinata Ski Area (Shibetsu)

This is a secluded ski resort popular with locals, located just a 20-minute drive from JR Shibetsu Station. It boasts exceptional snow quality and a layout that everyone from beginners to experts will enjoy. Options range from the Family Course with its continuous gentle slopes to the Panorama Course stretching 1,000 meters in length, and the Dynamic Course featuring a 36-degree wall.


Of course, snowboarding is welcome, and snowscoot riding is also permitted! After skiing, you can enjoy meals and rest at the adjacent Hinata Onsen.

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