What other travelers are saying about Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort
Drove a car down in early Jan. Weather was really cold (-7°C). Roads were relatively empty and but the road lines on the ground are barely visible; Just follow the signs
We went down for a 1 day ski beginner course. All equipments could be rented aside from the ski gloves, face mask and neck guard (which you have to buy if needed)
Our instructors were very friendly and skilled and could speak basic English so it went well. The course was split into 2 parts - 2 hours of practice at the easy slope, then 2 hours of the actual skiing down the mountain. (One hour of lunch in between)
I recommend to book the course online as there are limited slots, especially for English ski/snow boarding classes.
The season runs from late November through early May. January and February offer the best snow conditions with peak powder quality. December and March-April have fewer crowds and lower prices. Weekdays are less busy than weekends and Japanese national holidays.
Yes. 30% of terrain is designated for beginners, with wide, gentle slopes at the base area. Ski and snowboard lessons are available in English. Complete equipment rental packages are provided on-site. The compact layout makes navigation easier for first-timers.
Direct shuttle buses operate from Sapporo Station, taking 90 minutes. Multiple daily departures run during ski season with advance reservations recommended. The resort is accessible by car via the Chuo Expressway with on-site parking available.
Yes. Rental facilities at the base provide complete packages including skis, snowboards, boots, and poles for all ages and skill levels. Helmets, goggles, and winter clothing are available separately. English-speaking staff assist with fitting. Advance online reservations are available.
Multiple restaurants serve Japanese dishes including ramen, curry, and donburi, plus Western options like pasta and hamburgers. Cafeteria-style and table service are both available. Main dishes range from ¥800 to ¥1,500. Vending machines and snack shops are located throughout the facilities.
Sapporo Kokusai is a fantastic resort with a well-balanced mix of terrain, leaning more toward fun, low-angle skiing while still offering some steeper options to keep things interesting. The tree skiing is excellent—playful, well-spaced, and perfect for storm days. On a clear day, the views are unreal, with sweeping sights all the way out to the ocean. Add in some of the highest snow accumulation in the region and a very reasonable lift ticket price, and Kokusai delivers incredible value and an all-around memorable ski experience.
Great place for beginners. We went during the first week of December for snowboarding lessons booked through Klook. Shoutout to our instructor CC (or Cece?) — he was very professional, patient, and excellent at teaching me and my boyfriend the basics.
The rental gear and outfits were high quality, and the journey to the resort itself was already a great experience.
The only downside was how early they closed and the limited food options. During our visit, the second floor was closed because a field trip occupied the entire space, which made dining choices even more limited.
If you wanna skip the line queue of gear rental, you’re better to reach the counter of rental before 9:30 am due to tour bus’ arrival.
The rental counter will offer discount on the 2nd day rental and don’t miss it.
Besides, there are a good deal while buy the ski pass which you just pay ¥500 & you could get a ¥1080 meal coupon. It can be used for all restaurants in the ski park.
I experienced an accident which caused me to fell on the floor of toilet (opposite to ramen shop) and I wore the ski boots. I think the Management Office has the responsibility for my injury because they don’t place any anti-slip material at the toilet floor. For those skiers ⛷️ you guys should aware of this.
Overall speaking, the trails are good enough for all levels players, though not so many tracks compared w/ Niseko.
Ample parking within the grounds.
Enjoyed powdery snow on the slopes which are good for beginners.
The drive to the resort was also pleasant with majestic views of the forests and valleys during winter.
Paid about 150 SGD for rental of equipment and snowboards for one adult and one child though it will be less if you own / skip googles and helmet, especially if you are just there to play in the snow.
