Trip Guide Spot helps you plan a trip to Hokkaido, Japan’s northern island. Each guide answers one planning question, such as when the drift ice arrives, which ski town to stay in, or which airport bus reaches your resort before the last departure. Dates, timetables and prices carry the date they were last checked.
Winter in Hokkaido
Hokkaido’s winter season runs from December to March. The guides below cover the decisions that matter most for a winter trip.
- When to see drift ice in Hokkaido. Arrival dates for Abashiri and Monbetsu based on Japan Meteorological Agency normals, and what happens to icebreaker cruises in a year with little ice.
Getting around
Most international visitors arrive at New Chitose Airport near Sapporo. Getting from the airport to a ski resort on the day you land depends on matching your flight to the bus timetable.
- Buses from New Chitose Airport to the ski resorts. Which arriving flights connect with each bus, and the last departures.
Where to stay
Choosing the right base saves time every day of the trip, especially in ski areas where towns and slopes are several kilometers apart.
- Where to stay in Niseko. Hirafu, Kutchan, Niseko Village, Annupuri or HANAZONO, compared by ski access, evening dining and getting around without a car.
Japanese edition
Trip Guide Spot also publishes a larger Japanese edition with guides to Hokkaido sightseeing, local food, souvenirs and model itineraries. Use the language link at the top of any page to switch between editions where an English version exists.
