Experience Japan’s elite powder with Club Med Hokkaido resorts

Each November, skiers and boarders descend on Japan – where pristine slopes gleam in their eyes and dreams of the ultimate billowing talcum-like snow become a reality.

For this, they can give thanks to the bitter Siberian winds that sweep across the Sea of Japan, gathering moisture and blanketing the country in a thick layer of bone-dry powder, affectionately known in the skiing world as “Japow”. With over 30 feet of snow on average, Japan stands as one of the snow drift-drenched destinations on the globe. 

As for the snowiest? Meet Hokkaido. The Japanese island’s incredible winter fluff is down to two factors: low temps thanks to its northern location; but more importantly drier temps thanks to those Siberian gusts keeping water vapour off the Sea of Japan to a minimum. The result is dry and powdery snow – just the way we like it. 

Sure, there’s more to Hokkaido than shredding, and Club Med’s not one, but four Japan ski resorts can introduce you and your family to the hottest ramen, the steamiest onsens, the most generous hospitality and, of course, the best (or should that be worst?) karaoke. But the snow – oh, the snow. Think carving lines through dense beech forests, leaving a haze of crystallised white powder in your wake – it’s no wonder this part of the world appeals to the hardcore powder pilgrims.

Sold? Good. Here at Travelplan we are the Club Med Japan ski specialists and can get you and your family the best deals – including 30% off your next Club Med Japan ski holiday (as of publication). Unlock mountain charms in the cosy cocoon of Sahoro, embark on an energy-packed adventure in trendy Tomamu or expect the unexpected in the off-the-beaten path of Kiroro – all in a fixed price, set-and-forget package deal.

Tomamu Hokkaido: A Winter Playground

Nestled within the heart of the Tomamu Resort in Shimukappu village, awaits an enchanting skiing paradise that ticks every Japanese ski holiday box you may have. Earning the Best of the Best for Family Holidays stamp by TripAdvisor, Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido is the ultimate family ski destination. A multitude of ski trails means it’s great for beginners and young families. At the same time, the resort itself offers the holy trinity of family holiday planning – interconnecting rooms, kids clubs and childcare.

Picture yourself gliding effortlessly down incredible slopes, surrounded by breathtaking alpine vistas that seem straight out of a fairy tale, and coming home to fresh seafood, premium Wagyu beef and award-winning locally brewed spirits, ready to take you on a whole different sort of (culinary) journey.

And if you want a break from the slopes – unlikely, yes – take a dip at Japan’s largest indoor wave pool at nearby Hoshino Resort. You won’t regret it.

Sahoro Hokkaido: Feel the Serenity

For those yearning for a tranquil getaway amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of Hokkaido, Sahoro is the Club Med resort for you. Tucked away in the rolling hills of Shintoku, Sahoro provides a unique skiing experience coupled with the warm embrace of Japanese hospitality.

Smugly indulge in the majestic views as you carve your way through meticulously groomed trails, surrounded by the peaceful ambiance of the forest. 

The boutique 208 rooms means low queues and exclusive runs. Whether you’re taking your first tentative snow ploughs or you’re a seasoned pro, Club Med’s attentive instructors will accompany you every step of the way.

While the aprés scene is subdued, there’s plenty to do amidst the serene mountain vistas, including horseback riding and immersing yourself in Japanese culture, heritage and food. Club Med Sahoro has also stepped into this gap with a kids’ nightclub, “Glow” parties for the grown-ups, and Arts evenings combining mesmerising visuals, culinary delights and fashion. 

Kiroro Hokkaido: Choose your own adventure

Uncover the hidden gem of Kiroro Hokkaido, in the awe-inspiring Shiribeshi region. Blessed with abundant snowfall and untouched natural splendour, Kiroro offers it all from gentle beginner trails to exhilarating off-piste routes.

Immerse yourself in the panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks and verdant forests, setting the stage for an unforgettable skiing escapade. Renowned as the resort with the most snow in the world, carve up the incredible powder in one of the longest seasons, ideal for the Easter school holidays. (Time it right, and you could even catch the cherry blossom season on the mainland…)

Sister clubs Kiroro Peak and Kiroro Grand ensure your next Japanese ski holiday is well-catered to your specific needs. Kiroro Peak does away with the kids clubs and interconnecting rooms, allowing adults and teens over 12 to revel in a hidden white powder paradise.

Kiroro Grand, on the other hand, showcases the family-friendly attitude and amenities Club Med is famous for, allowing families to bond and experience the majesty and world-class skiing of Japan, while also offering childcare, kids clubs and even a Junior Club Med for those hard-to-please tweens. 

Most importantly, both groups can enjoy the unspoilt nature of snow trekking or take your skiing to the next level on the diverse groomed runs and an outstanding terrain park tailored for snowboarders who want to send it.

Off the slopes, connect with the local culture and learn about the indigenous Ainu, the first settlers in Hokkaido, on one of the many excursions, or soak away the day in the Rotenburo outdoor hot bath or a natural Japanese onsen.

Getting there: All four Club Med Japan ski resorts are accessible via direct flights to New Chitose airport, and a 90-minute transfer from there – Kiroro to the northwest; due east for Tomamu and Sahoro.

More information: Travelplan are your Club Med Japan ski specialists – visit travelplan.com.au/club-med-ski-holidays, email deals@travelplan.com.au or call 1300 SKI SKI.