The Best Ski Day Trips From Furano
Furano, with its world-class powder and vibrant ski culture, is an amazing destination in its own right. But for those looking to explore more of Hokkaido's incredible winter wonderland, it also serves as a fantastic base for exhilarating ski day trips. If you're staying in Furano and itching to experience more of what this snowy paradise has to offer, here are some of the best resorts within easy reach.
Kamui is cold but has nice fluffy snow and is a treat for everyone.
Kamui Ski Links
About an hour drive from Furano and 30 minutes from Asahikawa, Kamui Ski Links offers a more laid-back atmosphere with excellent terrain for all skill levels. We instantly fell in love with this place because, instead of the often ubiquitous J-Pop that often blares out of 30 year old speakers on Japanese slopes, Kamui has some smooth Jazz going on. It instantly transforms the ski lift experience from grating to relaxing.
Of course Kamui also has excellent powder and great slopes. There are no hotels here so everyone is a day-tripper, which helps keep the crowds in check. Prices are also excellent and even cheaper than most other Japanese resorts (especially the more popular ones).
Why visit Kamui Ski Links?
Smooth Jazz on the speakers: Finally, no screaming boy bands.
Variety: There’s a great stash of powder snow that’s often untouched and also easy slopes for the kiddies.
Good value: The lift prices are inexpensive and the food is surprisingly good.
Getting There
Kamui Ski Links is approximately a 1-hour drive from Furano. Renting a car is the most convenient option, or you can look into local taxi services.
Sahoro Resort
Nestled in the Hidaka Mountains, Sahoro Resort features one of the two Club Meds in the area. This means the offering will be up to international standards but more expensive. It also means that the services on offer are good and plentiful. In addition, most guests here will stay on the slopes and powder and tree skiing is often free of competition.
On the down side however, the snow here may come a bit later than other parts of Hokkaido and be a bit less.
Why visit Sahoro Resort?
Family friendly: One of the best resorts for families.
Variety of Terrain: As well as little competition for the powder and ski runs.
Resort Amenities: Offers a range of facilities including onsen and dining options.
Getting There
Sahoro Resort is roughly a 1-hour drive from Furano. It’s located very close to Tomamu, the other Club Med in the area.
The arrival station of the gondola in summer. As Hokkaido’s tallest mountain, Asahidake is popular all year round.
Asahidake Onsen & Ski Area
For the adventurous at heart, Asahidake offers an unparalleled backcountry and off-piste experience. As part of Daisetsuzan National Park, it's Hokkaido's highest peak and provides some truly spectacular, untamed powder. This is not your typical groomed resort, but rather a unique ropeway-accessed ski area. The line at the bottom of the ropeway can get long however, and on the worst days will be an hour.
Why visit Asahidake?
Deep Powder: Experience some of the best untracked powder in Japan.
Stunning Scenery: Ski amidst active volcanic vents and a pristine natural environment.
Authentic Experience: A more rustic and wild skiing adventure.
Getting There
Asahidake is about a 1.5-hour drive from Furano. It's recommended to have a car with 4WD, especially in heavy snowfall. Be sure to check avalanche conditions before heading out and consider hiring a local guide.
Tomamu Ski Resort
As the second Club Med in the area, Tomamu is a larger, more modern resort that offers a full range of winter activities beyond just skiing and snowboarding. Besides excellent skiing there is also a large wave pool, a cute ice village and more.
Why visit Tomamu Ski Resort?
Diverse Activities: Enjoy the Ice Village, indoor wave pool, and various dining options.
Excellent Terrain: Well-maintained slopes catering to all levels, with some great tree runs.
Luxury Facilities: A more upscale resort experience.
Getting There
Tomamu is approximately a 1-hour drive from Furano.
Planning Your Day Trip
Unless you’re going to Asahidake there’s not much planning involved beyond what you would usually do (check weather, pack snacks and drinks). If you are going to Asahidake then make sure to check avalanche conditions or hire a guide, but if you’re that adventurous you probably know what you’re doing already.
One tip however is try to buy your ticket online. It often saves a lot of time (especially at Furano).
