This article is your ticket to an epic Kiroro ski adventure. Skip the Tokyo Narita shuffle and navigate the best travel routes with ease. Whether you’re chasing untouched powder or a luxe après-ski scene, this destination guide will point you to the best spots. Find tips on where to crash, from swanky hotels to more budget-friendly digs, and uncover the best dining spots in Kiroro. Get ready to make the most of your Kiroro trip!
Keep an eye on our Adventure Group Ski Trips as we may have ski adventures to Kiroro on offer!

Dropping Into Kiroro’s Powder Bliss

I’ve traveled the world, chasing the perfect stash of untouched snow. From the Rockies to the Alps, I’ve carved my way through pristine, fluffy terrain. But Kiroro’s powder? It’s in a league of its own, with epic tree runs just waiting to be conquered.

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Getting to Kiroro: Navigating the Journey

The most convenient way to reach Kiroro is by flying into New Chitose Airport in Sapporo. From there, it’s about a 2-hour drive to the resort.

Find the best flight deals / cheap flights to Sapporo here.

Here are your options to get from the airport to Kiroro:

Direct Shuttle Bus

Several shuttle bus companies offer direct service from New Chitose Airport to the Kiroro resort:

• Hokkaido Resort Liner: Shuttle buses running directly between the airport and Kiroro several times per day.
• Kiroro Shuttle: The resort operates its own shuttle bus service from the airport to Kiroro.

Direct shuttle buses are generally the most convenient option, but the public bus with a transfer can work as a more budget-friendly alternative. Travel time and frequency of departures may vary depending on the season and day of the week.

Public Bus with Transfer

You can also take a public bus from the airport to the nearby city of Otaru, and then transfer to a local bus that goes directly to the Kiroro ski area:

• From the airport, take the Chuo Bus bound for Otaru Station. This takes around 1 hour.
• At Otaru Station, transfer to a Hokkaido Chuo Bus that runs the route from Otaru to Kiroro. This final leg is about 45-60 minutes.

The total travel time using the public bus option with the transfer in Otaru is typically 1.5-2 hours from New Chitose Airport to Kiroro.

I recommend checking the current schedules and booking the shuttle in advance, especially during peak ski season, to ensure availability. You can consider visiting Kiroro as a day trip from Niseko, Otaru, or Sapporo, or making it your primary ski destination. Whichever route you choose, be sure to plan ahead, especially during peak seasons. Booking your transportation in advance can save you time and hassle once you arrive.

Avoid the Tokyo Narita Shuffle

Pro Tip: If you are flying internationally, try to avoid flying into Tokyo’s Narita Airport and then transferring to Haneda Airport. I’ve done it once, and it felt like a marathon with all that ski luggage. Picture me at the terminal, dragging my ski bag like an unruly toddler, and realizing at the bus station that my avalanche backpack was missing. I had four minutes before the bus left, so I had to decide between leaving a thousand dollars on the table for a new airbag backpack, or potentially missing my bus and thus, my connecting flight.

I chose the latter. Like a maniac, I raced back into the baggage claim area, apologizing to all the airport staff who tried to stop me, pointing frantically at my watch and yelling, “I lost my bag in there and have to catch a bus!” Luckily, I found my backpack immediately and made it on the bus with literally seconds to spare. Good times.

Yep, changing airports in Tokyo can be a real headache, and during peak seasons, it’s tough to predict how long the whole process will take with immigration and baggage claim. If you have no other choice than to fly into Narita, you’ll want to allow at least 4-5 hours to make that connection, which is a huge hassle. I had a 4-hour layover and almost missed my connection.

Flight Route Alternatives

Note: Even if you do manage to land at Haneda and your next flight is from there, you’ll still have to claim your bags and re-check them, since the rule is you have to grab your luggage at your first point of entry into Japan. To avoid all that drama during your Asahidake ski adventure, I recommend having at least 2 hours between your flights.

A better option for your Asahidake ski adventure is to look at flying through a different hub, like Hong Kong or Seoul, and then connecting to Hokkaido from there. This way, you can skip the whole Tokyo airport shuffle and just focus on getting to the powder stashes. It’s way less stress, and you’ll be able to maximize your time on the mountain.

Find the best flight deals / cheap flights to Sapporo here.

Rental Cars

If you’re a confident driver, renting a car from Sapporo CTS or Asahikawa Airport is a great option, depending on where you land. We’ve had excellent experiences with Expedia Car Rentals for this.

IMPORTANT: For drivers with licenses from France, Belgium, Switzerland, Monaco, Germany, Slovenia, or Taiwan, you’ll need a certified translation from the JAF (Japan Automobile Federation). We recommend using Drivinjapan to handle this remotely, so you don’t have to visit the JAF office in Sapporo. They’re affordable and reliable, and I’ve used them several times. You can have your translation sent directly to the rental car company before you pick up your car or to your hotel in Japan. Just make sure to arrange this a few weeks in advance.

Communication: Get a Local SIM Card

Since foreign radios are not allowed in Japan, we strongly recommend using your mobile phone to communicate with your riding buddies. It is crucial to stay in touch in case someone gets lost or separated from the group.

You can get a local Japanese SIM card at the airports, or if you have eSIM, we recommend ordering Yesim’s Japan package before you fly.

Moreover, the Japanese aren’t exactly winning any awards for their English skills. So, when you’re wandering around Japan, especially in the lesser-known spots such as local ski resorts, get ready to have Google Translate become your new best friend. Just think of it as a fun language adventure – who knows, you might even pick up a few quirky phrases along the way!

The Best Time to Visit Kiroro For Skiing

For an exceptional skiing adventure in Kiroro, Japan, plan your trip from early December to early March. This timeframe sees the highest snowfalls, with peak conditions historically in the last week of December and substantial snow throughout January. Kiroro offers an incredible winter sports experience with consistently deep, powdery snow. While the highest snowfalls tend to occur at the end of December, it’s worth noting that the base layer tends to be better in the latter part of January and into February.

Be sure to check out our blog post about where it snows most in Hokkaido, where we crunched historical data, and Kiroro ranks among the top spots.

Where to Stay in Kiroro

Kiroro is more than just a powder paradise. As a full-service destination resort, it offers a wide range of amenities and activities to keep the whole family entertained. From the luxurious Club Med Kiroro to the diverse array of non-skiing pursuits, there’s something to entertain every taste. However, staying close to the resort has become a privilege of the upper echelons ever since Club Med opened its doors.

As an alternative, you can consider staying in a nearby city such as Otaru, which has reasonably priced accommodation and rent a car to drive to the resort (see further below for great accommodation deals).

5-Star Hotels

Yu Kiroro, Ski-in-Ski-out Luxury Residences

• Distance to Gondola Station: About 50 meters.
• Features and Amenities: Ski-to-door access, free Wi-Fi, fitness center, bar, garden, mountain views, free shuttle bus to ski resort, spacious rooms, private bathrooms, well-equipped kitchens.

Check the map and below for great accommodation deals in Kiroro:

The Kiroro, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

• Distance to Gondola Station: Located within the Kiroro Resort, providing easy access to the ski lifts and gondola station.
• Features and Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, free private parking, family rooms, pet-friendly rooms, fitness center, bar, spa, wellness center, indoor pool, ski storage, on-site ski equipment rental, multiple dining options, concierge service.

4-Star Hotels

The Skilas Kiroro – Vacation STAY 11606

• Distance to Gondola Station: 9.7 miles (15.6 km), 17 minutes by car.
• Features and Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, free private parking, kitchen with microwave and fridge, non-smoking rooms, heating, bathtub, TV, barbecue facilities.
• Additional Info: Only recommended if you have a rental car.

3-Star Hotels

Kiroro House

• Distance to Gondola Station: Approximately 2.2 miles (3.6 km), 5 minutes by car.
• Features and Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, free private parking, family rooms, pet-friendly, fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, BBQ facilities, ski pass vendor, ski storage, horse riding, hiking activities.
• Additional Info: Only recommended if you have a rental car.

Margo’s Garden Farmstay

• Distance to Gondola Station: Approximately 3.4 miles (5.5 km), 7 minutes by car.
• Features and Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, free private parking, garden, non-smoking rooms.
• Additional Info: Only recommended if you have a rental car.

Note that Kiroro doesn’t offer much other accommodation or nightlife outside of the 5-star hotels, so the resort has a more developed and resort-type atmosphere.

Where to Stay in Otaru

As mentioned above, another option is to stay in one of the nearby towns such as Otaru instead, which has much more affordable prices. If you stay in Otaru, you can take the Kiroro Liner to the ski resort. Therefore, we ranked the hotels by their distance to the Kiroro Liner Bus Station, which is at bus station E in front of Otaru train station.

4-Star Hotels (Ranked by Distance to Kiroro Liner Bus Station)

Authent Hotel Otaru

• Distance to Kiroro Liner Bus Station: 0.3 miles (approximately a 5-minute walk).
• Features and Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, sauna, massage services, non-smoking rooms, restaurant, and bar.

Hotel Sonia Otaru

• Distance to Kiroro Liner Bus Station: 0.6 miles (approximately a 10-minute walk).
• Features and Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, spacious rooms, excellent Japanese breakfast, proximity to Otaru Canal.

3-Star Hotels (Ranked by Distance to Kiroro Liner Bus Station)

Dormy Inn Premium Otaru

• Distance to Kiroro Liner Bus Station: 0.1 miles (approximately a 2-minute walk).
• Features and Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, refrigerator, on-site hot spring bath.

GRIDS Premium Hotel Otaru

• Distance to Kiroro Liner Bus Station: 0.4 miles (approximately an 8-minute walk).
• Features and Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, private bathrooms, breakfast options.

Hotel Torifito Otaru Canal

• Distance to Kiroro Liner Bus Station: 0.4 miles (approximately an 8-minute walk).
• Features and Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, private parking, non-smoking rooms, 24-hour front desk, restaurant.

UNWIND HOTEL & BAR OTARU

• Distance to Kiroro Liner Bus Station: 0.5 miles (approximately a 9-minute walk).
• Features and Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, terrace, private parking, restaurant, bar, excellent staff service.

Kiroro’s Powder: High-End Bliss

Peaking at 1,483 meters, Kiroro Ski Resort is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for powder chasers. This snow-capped haven is known for its incredible off-piste terrain and tree skiing with well-spaced pines and evergreens, as well as backcountry opportunities.

While it may not have the same profile as its neighbor Niseko, Kiroro boasts some of the best snow quality and quantity in Japan, providing a natural playground. Blessed with annual snowfall of up to 20 meters in record years, Kiroro’s powder is a true haven for those seeking untracked powder stashes. Unlike the crowded slopes of Niseko, Kiroro’s powder maintains a raw, untamed vibe that appeals to the true powder purist. With permission from resort management, adventurous powder hunters can explore the untamed wilderness beyond the groomed runs, carving effortless turns through the lightest, fluffiest snow imaginable.

However, the resort’s growing popularity means it’s becoming a little more challenging for discerning skiers and snowboarders to find those fresh tracks. The resort’s well-developed lift infrastructure ensures efficient access to the mountain’s slopes and bowls.

For pow chasers willing to explore beyond the groomed runs, Kiroro’s powder offers a truly remarkable ski experience. But with its growing popularity, it’s important to plan ahead and be prepared to potentially share those pristine stashes with other discerning snow enthusiasts. The rewards, however, are well worth the effort.

Après-Ski in Kiroro: Upscale Vibe

While Kiroro may not have the same lively après-ski scene as its bigger neighbor Niseko, its peaceful, intimate atmosphere appeals to those seeking a more immersive experience. The lack of a proper village also contributes to the resort’s exclusive, upscale vibe.

Après ski in Kiroro offers a variety of options for visitors to relax and unwind after a day on the slopes. Here are some activities and places where you can enjoy après ski in Kiroro:

• Yuki Lounge at Yu Kiroro Hokkaido Ski Resort Hotel: Guests staying at Yu Kiroro can chill out at Yuki Lounge. A perfect way to relax and socialize after a day of shredding.
• Hotel Bars: The two main hotels in Kiroro, Sheraton Hokkaido Kiroro Resort and the Kiroro, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, offer dining options and bars where you can enjoy après ski drinks and socialize with other skiers and snowboarders.
• Private Karaoke Rooms: If you’re in the mood for some entertainment, you can rent private karaoke rooms in Kiroro Ski Resort and have fun singing with your friends or family.

In summary, the après-ski options in Kiroro are fairly limited to the on-site dining/drinking at the Club Med resort and the onsen hot springs. More vibrant nightlife would require traveling to the larger surrounding cities. The resort caters more towards families looking to unwind après-ski rather than a lively party scene.

Safety Tips for Your Kiroro Adventure

For those gearing up for their first Asahidake adventure, here are some clutch tips:

• Plan Ahead: Book your flights and accommodations early, especially during peak season.
• Hire a Guide: Kiroro’s vast, ungroomed terrain can be tricky to navigate. Trees and rivers can pose dangers to those unfamiliar with the terrain. Hiring a local guide can help you find the best runs and stay safe.
• Get Emergency Evacuation Insurance Coverage: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers skiing and emergency evacuation. We recommend insurance that covers incidents also with non-certified guides, as not all guides in Japan have internationally accepted certificates.
• Get a Local SIM Card: As already mentioned above, get a local Japanese SIM card for smooth communication on the slopes. You can get them at the airport, or if you have eSIM, we recommend ordering Yesim’s Japan package before you fly.

What to Pack: Gearing Up for Kiroro’s Powder

When packing for your Kiroro ski trip, keep these pro tips in mind:

• Dress in Layers: The weather can change rapidly in Hokkaido, so be prepared for anything from bluebird skies to sudden snowstorms.
• Bring Your Own Backcountry Gear: Quality rental equipment can be hard to come by, so it’s best to bring your own skis, skins, avalanche gear, and other essential items.
• Don’t Forget Your Boots: Rental boots rarely fit just right. Bring your own for maximum comfort and performance.
• Stay Hydrated: The dry, cold air can be deceiving. Keep a water bottle handy and sip regularly to avoid dehydration.

Navigating Kiroro’s Culinary Landscape: What You Need to Know

With Kiroro’s growing popularity, it’s important for guests to understand the unique culinary landscape of this upscale resort-style destination.

Unlike some other Japanese ski towns that offer a lively village atmosphere with a diverse array of independent eateries, Kiroro’s dining scene is primarily centered around the resort’s high-end hotel properties. This resort-centric approach means that guests will find the majority of dining options within the confines of the luxurious Sheraton Hokkaido Kiroro Resort, The Kiroro Tribute Hotel, and the Yu Kiroro accommodations.

Establishments like the Brasserie Akaigawa, Yukashi Alpine Bistro, and Pizzeria Akaigawa are all conveniently located on the hotel premises or just a stone’s throw away. These restaurants provide guests with a range of dining experiences, from casual cafeteria-style fare to more upscale, locally-inspired cuisine.

However, it’s important to note that the options outside of these hotel-based eateries are quite limited. The lack of a traditional village center or town in Kiroro contributes to this more insular dining landscape. Guests looking for a wider variety of independent restaurants or lively après-ski scenes may find the options somewhat restricted compared to other Japanese ski destinations.

Dining: Research And Book in Advance

That said, the resort’s focus on providing a high-end, all-inclusive experience means that the in-hotel dining establishments are of exceptional quality. Guests can expect to savor the finest Hokkaido-sourced ingredients, from fresh seafood to succulent Akaigawa pork, all expertly prepared by skilled chefs.

When planning your Kiroro getaway, it’s essential to factor in the resort-centric nature of the dining scene. Be sure to research the hotel restaurants thoroughly and, if possible, make reservations in advance to ensure you secure the best culinary experiences during your stay. With a little pre-planning, you can make the most of Kiroro’s distinctive and delectable dining offerings.

Remember, while the dining landscape may be more limited compared to other ski towns, Kiroro’s culinary delights are a perfect complement to the resort’s world-class skiing and snow conditions. Enjoy your powder-filled adventures, and savor the flavors of this upscale winter wonderland to the fullest.

Where to Dine in Kiroro

Lunch Options

• Brasserie Akaigawa
  • Location: Gondola Base Station 1F
  • Offers a variety of original menus using fresh vegetables and good meat from Akaigawa.
  • Highly recommended for noodle dishes.
• Cafeteria Lumiere
  • Location: Mountain Center 1F
  • Offers lunch set menus with options like piping hot oven dishes, chef’s special Chinese dishes, and Akaigawa pork.
  • Self-service station for salad, soup, and drinks.
  • Alcoholic beverages like Hokkaido-only Sapporo Classic Lager, wines, and non-alcoholic beer available.
• The Lounge, Premium
  • Located in the cafeteria “Lumiere”.
  • Offers a semi-private room with a view of the ski slopes.
  • Free Wi-Fi, power taps, and salad/soup/drink bar included in the price.
  • Reservations are highly recommended.
• Cafe Le Lift
  • Located at the entrance of Mountain Center.
  • Offers a Western-style Oden and light snacks.
  • Also serves desserts.
• WDC Waffle Shop
  • Located at Mountain Center 1F.
  • Offers freshly baked Belgian waffles throughout the day.
  • Also sells Belgian beers.
• Pizzeria Akaigawa
  • Located on the 1st floor of Mountain Center.
  • Offers various types of hot and crispy pizzas.
  • Take-out options available.

Dinner Options

• Yukashi Alpine Bistro
  • Located at Yu Kiroro.
  • Offers a menu crafted with predominantly local and seasonal ingredients.
  • Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • Reservations recommended.
• Alla Moda
  • Located on the first floor of The Kiroro.
  • Classy restaurant serving Italian cuisine with a significant Japanese influence.
  • Balcony dining overlooking the hotel lobby.
• Fuga
  • Located in Kiroro Town.
  • Serves authentic Japanese cuisine, including various kaiseki (a traditional multi-course dinner) and local sake.
• Asian Kitchen
  • Located in Kiroro Town.
  • Serves amazing Chinese and Thai fare.
  • Particularly popular with Chinese visitors.

Trips from Sapporo – Lake Toya

When you’re back in Sapporo for your return flight, carve out a few extra days to soak in everything this city and its surroundings have to offer. I highly recommend a day trip to the beautiful Lake Toya region – it’s totally worth it! Lake Toya is a volcanic caldera lake with crystal-clear waters, surrounded by hot springs and scenic trails. It’s one of Japan’s top spots for stargazing, thanks to its low light pollution. Plus, you can check out the active volcano, Mount Usu, and enjoy epic views from the ropeway.

If you’re planning to hit up Sapporo in early February, be sure to check the Sapporo Snow Festival website for the exact dates. This legendary festival turns the city into a snowy wonderland, drawing millions of visitors from around the world. You’ll see insane snow and ice sculptures, some towering over 15 meters high and stretching 25 meters wide. With nighttime illuminations and killer live performances, this festival is the ultimate winter playground.

Sapporo is a foodie paradise, famous for its legendary Sapporo beer. While you’re there, don’t miss out on a Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour – just make sure to book early because spots fill up fast! If you want to up your chef game, take a Japanese cooking class and learn to whip up some authentic dishes.

Accommodation in Sapporo

A good middle-class choice close to the main station is 3* Hotel Route-Inn Sapporo Ekimae Kitaguchi.

Check the below map for other great accommodation deals:

Wrapping it Up: Kiroro’s Powder Bliss

Kiroro is one of Hokkaido’s premier upscale powder playgrounds, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding backed by stunning natural scenery. This developed resort destination caters to a wide range of winter adventurers, from seasoned shredders to first-time freestylers.

Kiroro is renowned for its abundant, high-quality snow, with the resort’s varied terrain and facilities providing an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking pristine, ungroomed slopes or well-manicured runs, Kiroro has you covered.

The resort has a high-end resort-style atmosphere, boasting high-end properties such as the all-inclusive escapes at Club Med Kiroro to high-end luxury at the Sheraton Hokkaido Kiroro Resort, The Kiroro Tribute Hotel, and the Yu Kiroro property.

If you’re looking to shred some of Japan’s deepest, most epic powder, add Kiroro to the top of your Hokkaido hit list. This winter wonderland promises an unforgettable adventure.

Share in the comments which freeriding spots you’d like to see featured in a detailed Destination Guide, and we’ll do our best to include them in future posts! 👇