If you are looking for a unique and fun family ski trip, look no further than Japan.
With world renowned powder, hundreds of resorts to choose from, great food and the opportunity to take a cultural vacation too, skiing in Japan with kids is guaranteed to make your next family ski holiday the best yet.
Here we take a look at some of the Japan ski resorts that offer the best family skiing in Japan.
1. Niseko Japan Ski Resort
There is no doubt that Niseko Japan has some of the best skiing in Japan. It is considered by many to be the best ski resort in Japan.
As one of the most up to date ski resorts, with gondolas galore, and a variety of ski lifts, Niseko ski resort is a great place for family ski vacations.
The Hirafu resort offers numerous attractions for children, the biggest being the snow park with half pipes and jumps.
There is even a smaller version located on the beginner slope next to the Hirafu Gondola.
One of the biggest attractions in Niseko is the tree runs. Even on one of the beginner slopes there is the Kitsune Forest which offers gradual runs through the trees.
The best part is at the start and end of the course there is a bell that can be rung by skiers.
Plus if you are interested in things other then skiing, there is snowmobiling, snowshoeing and snowrafts that are pulled around by snowmobile.
Niseko is one of the most popular ski destinations in Japan, which means it has a variety of locations to stay and eat.
If you are traveling with a picky eater – no worries – there are plenty of locations to choose from common western food (Niseko Pizza) to sushi places.
Or if you want to take it easy there is a food truck center where you can make everyone happy for a cheap price.
Best Niseko Accommodation
For easy access look for Hirafu accommodation. This will keep you in close vicinity of the larger Hirafu resort.
There are numerous locations in the main town center recommended including:
- The Hilton with ski in and ski out access at the base of Niseko Annupuri Mountain. Check their prices here.
- Miru Niseko (formerly Nest at the Trees) is a little further out of town. This hotel offers a quick five minute shuttle into the main Hirafu center.
- The Vale Niseko. Click here to see the latest prices.
Contributed by Amy Dodd from Oceans to Alpines
2. Furano Ski Resort
Furano Ski Resort is on Hokkaido, about an hour from Sapporo. It is one of the best resorts in Japan due to both the length of the season and quality of the snow.
Furano has some of the best family skiing Japan has to offer and is ideal for beginner and intermediate skiers.
There are two zones, the Kitanomine zone with beginner runs, and the Furano zone well suited for more skilled skiers.
One of the other reasons Furano is a great destination for a ski trip with kids is the lift passes are free for kids aged 12 and under.
Note that if your family needs a ski school make sure to book in advance as places fill up quickly.
