Santa Present Park
If you’ve locked Asahikawa in as the base of your ski adventures in the Powder Belt, then take a quick 15-minute detour to this ski area for a great time. It may be one of the smaller slopes, but it’s perfect for families thanks to its jampacked kids-only courses. After making your way to the top, you’re treated to an expansive view of Asahikawa City. This is a beautiful sight that has to be experienced in the evening during a night-skiing session. Those who have stayed in Asahikawa before are likely to have seen the bright lights of the ski area dotting the sky as the sun paints nature’s background in a gorgeous orange hue. Definitely a must-visit for the amazing views alone.
Pippu Ski Resort
Take a 30-minute car ride north of Asahikawa to discover this secretly amazing local ski resort. Its location in Hokkaido means you’re treated to the best-quality snow in all of Japan and get to carve up the wonderful powder snow here after some snowfall. What sets this ski area apart from the rest is the number of courses it has on a range of slopes to suit snow-sport lovers of all levels wishing to get in on the powder snow fun. It’s still relatively unknown amongst international skiers and snowboarders, which is another added plus. In fact, one of the greatest draw cards is that the slopes don’t get crowded, even after a block of snowfall when conditions are perfect. You also can’t forget the epic views here as you ski down the rooftop of Hokkaido with the Daisetsuzan Volcanic Group behind you.
Canmore Ski Village
This ski area is a 15-minute car trip from Asahikawa Airport and has a total of six courses to cater to a range of levels . Its location at the foot of the so-called “roof of Hokkaido” (Mount Asahidake) makes it an easily accessible gem for powder-snow seekers that’s perfect for families and casual skiers, as well as hardcore shredders looking to get a feel for the slopes on the more difficult courses. Lift tickets are very reasonably priced and there are also lift passes ranging from one hour to all day for those who want to make the most of their time without having to buy individual tickets.
