Kiroro Ski Resort (キロロスキー場, Kiroro Skījō) is a large snow resort located just outside of Otaru and not far from Sapporo and Niseko. Its location near the Sea of Japan provides the resort with huge quantities of light powder snow, even by Hokkaido's voluminous standards.

Kiroro features a variety of terrain among its over twenty courses with difficulties evenly spread between beginner, intermediate and advanced. In addition to long, groomed and ungroomed runs, the resort also has several in-bounds, forested off-piste areas which offer access to the resort's deepest snow. Several gates offer access to side and backcountry for groups that submit climbing plans at the main lodge.

The main complex at the base of the resort is quite developed and includes several restaurants, shops and onsen. Here, families can sign up for activities ranging from snowmobile rides to snow tubing, as well as a children's snow park. While the resort is not located in a town or village, the resort offers self-contained entertainment and accommodation options at the Yu Kiroro luxury residences and two Club Med resorts.

Kiroro Ski Resort
A large upscale ski resort not far from Otaru, Sapporo and Niseko, blessed with some of Hokkaido's largest snowfall volumes. Tons of powder snow, good lift infrastructure, varied on-and-off-piste terrain, and good side/backcountry access make for a worthwhile visit for a couple days. Also lots of activities available for families. Lift ticket prices are lowered during the shoulder seasons.
Season*
Early December to early May
(December 3, 2023 to May 6, 2024)
Lifts
10 lifts
Tickets
Full day 7400 yen
6-hour pass 6600 yen
Nighter 2700 yen
Access
Bus 90 minutes by bus to/from central Sapporo; 50 minutes to/from central Otaru.
Car About 70 minutes by car to/from central Sapporo; about 45 minutes to/from central Otaru.
* Season dates may be adjusted due to lack of snow. Check before going.

Getting there and around

From Sapporo

Hokkaido Resort Liner connects Kiroro Ski Resort by bus with central Sapporo on selected days between late December and late March. The trip takes 90-150 minutes from Sapporo depending on where you get on and costs 2200 yen one way. Reservations are required.

Alternatively, the resort can be reached by car from central Sapporo in about 70 minutes. Winter driving skills are required.

From Otaru

Buses connect central Otaru and Kiroro Ski Resort daily during the ski season until early April. The trip takes about one hour and costs 1300 yen one way. Reservations are recommended.

Alternatively, the resort can also be reached by car from central Otaru in about 45 minutes. Winter driving skills are required.