Ski Resorts Around Grand Park Otaru
Grand Park Otaru is surrounded by majestic natural landscapes and is close to world-class ski resorts boasting some of the finest snow quality globally. Within the city of Otaru and its nearby areas, there are plenty of skiing options to choose from. Kiroro Resort is just a 40-minute drive away, while Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort can be reached in about an hour, and the renowned Niseko is only a 1.5-hour drive.
Grand Park Otaru serves as an ideal base for exploring various ski resorts, whether for an adventurous ski holiday hopping between resorts or a long-term stay for ski training camps.
◆ Kiroro Snow World
Located in Akigawa Village, adjacent to Otaru, this vast winter resort is surrounded by the twin peaks of Mt. Yoichi and Mt. Asari. It features 21 diverse courses suitable for all levels, from beginners and families to advanced skiers.
The highlight is the "Asari Dynamic Course," a thrilling run stretching approximately 4,000 meters. Skiers can descend from the 1,180-meter-high summit to the base, all while enjoying breathtaking views of Hokkaido's dynamic natural beauty.
Location: 128-1 Tokiwa, Akigawa Village, Yoichi-gun, Hokkaido
Access:
- Approximately 40 minutes by car from Grand Park Otaru.
- Direct bus services (fee required) are available from Sapporo and Otaru during winter.
Paid Shuttle Bus Reservation:
Grand Park Otaru offers shuttle bus services (fee required) to Kiroro. Reservations can be made via the Hokkaido Access Network website. For any changes or cancellations, please contact Hokkaido Access Network directly.
◆ Asarigawa Onsen Ski Resort
This resort offers a variety of courses for all levels, with spectacular views of the Sea of Japan from the 680-meter summit.
- Purple Course: A challenging, 1,100-meter course for intermediate to advanced skiers.
- Green A Course: Features moguls for added difficulty.
- Yellow A Course: A steep slope for thrill-seekers.
- Blue Course: A 1,500-meter course with gentle slopes, ideal for beginners.
Location: 1 Asarigawa Onsen, Otaru, Hokkaido
Access: Approximately 15-20 minutes by car from Grand Park Otaru.
◆Mt. Tengu Ski Resort
Situated on the iconic Mt. Tengu, this ski resort offers a thrilling downhill experience that feels like plunging into the sea. On clear days, you can enjoy panoramic views of Otaru Bay, the Shokanbetsu mountain range, and the Shakotan Peninsula.
Courses:
- Family Course: A 400-meter gentle slope for beginners.
- Long Line Course: A 1,247-meter course with stunning views of Otaru.
Location: 2-16-15 Mogami, Otaru, Hokkaido
Access: About 15 minutes by car from Grand Park Otaru (to the ropeway station).
◆ Snow Cruise Onze
With diverse courses and a maximum run of 1,500 meters, this resort offers panoramic views of Otaru Bay. The "Panorama Cruise" course is perfect for beginners and intermediates, providing scenic daytime views of Otaru and romantic night skiing under city lights.
Location: 357 Haruka-cho, Otaru, Hokkaido
Access: About 20 minutes by car from Grand Park Otaru.
◆ Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort
Just a 40-minute drive south of Otaru via Route 1, this ski resort features long and expansive courses for all skill levels. Families and beginners will enjoy the 3,600-meter "Forest to Fairy Tale Course," which boasts gentle slopes and wide paths.
Location: 937 Jozankei, Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Access:
- About 50 minutes by car from Otaru.
- From Otaru Station to Sapporo Station by JR (30 minutes), then take a bus from Sapporo Station's terminal (90 minutes).
◆ Niseko
Renowned globally, Niseko offers some of the finest powder snow, attracting skiers from around the world. The area features four expansive ski resorts at the base of Mt. Annupuri, with stunning views of the "Mt. Fuji of the North," Mt. Yotei.
Notable Resorts:
- Niseko Hanazono: Known for family-friendly snow activities.
- Niseko Grand Hirafu: The largest ski area in Niseko.
- Niseko Village: Offers scenic forest courses starting from lifts directly connected to hotels.
- Niseko Annupuri: Perfect for beginners with wide, gentle slopes.
A common lift pass allows access to all four resorts.
Access: About 1.5 hours by car from Otaru.
