It can be very tempting to book a hotel right at the base of a ski resort when planning a ski trip, and that can be worth it in some countries, but hotels at the base of Japan’s ski resorts are often more expensive and come with less amenities. A better option is to stay in a ski town, further from the resorts but offering better hotel costs with more amenities and activities nearby. The Slippery Slope discussed four of Japan’s best ski towns, some of which you’ve likely never heard of.
I can speak from personal experience on both Asahikawa and Otaru. Asahikawa, as Hokkaido’s second largest city, has plenty to offer in terms of night life and days off the slopes. There’s karaoke, lots of bars and incredible restaurants, a fantastic sake brewery and museum, a great zoo, and much more. The closest ski resort, Kamui Ski Links, gets great snow and has plenty of terrain, both on trail and off trail. If Kamui isn’t firing, there are other resorts within an easy driving distance worth a visit as well.
Otaru, being right on the coast, is a dream location for ski and sushi lovers. There are multiple, affordable yet fantastic hotels right in the heart of the city, well within walking distance to great restaurants. Kiroro Snow World is within a short driving distance from the city, in in addition to several other ski areas well worth a visit.
I can’t personally speak for Sapporo or Nagano, but they both look like fantastic cities to stay in. And let’s be completely honest, it’s Japan. You probably can’t go wrong when picking a city to stay in.
