Kiroro is Hokkaido’s powder secret — a mid-sized resort spread across two mountains near Otaru, consistently delivering some of the deepest, driest snow in all of Japan. With uncrowded slopes, excellent terrain for every ability and world-class facilities, it’s the kind of place our team loves sending Kiwis. Less hype than big resorts, more powder than you’d believe.
Trust us — Kiroro delivers.
Tucked into the mountains of Hokkaido’s Yoichi district, Kiroro sits in a snow pocket that receives extraordinary snowfall season after season — the result of moisture-laden winds rolling in off the Sea of Japan and dumping light, dry powder across two interconnected mountain peaks. Spread across 150 hectares with 23 runs serviced by two gondolas and eight chairlifts, the terrain here genuinely suits everyone. Families are well looked after with dedicated learning zones, English-speaking instructors, and a Snow Park complete with tubing and sledding. Intermediate skiers will spend days happily carving wide, groomed groomers, while powder hunters can access well-marked in-bounds off-piste tree zones and multiple backcountry gates when conditions fire. And fire they do. Kiroro averages over 17 metres of snowfall per season, with the snowiest weeks typically arriving in late December and January. The resort is self-contained and genuinely relaxed — onsen, restaurants, ski rental and accommodation all on-site. Our team has been here, knows it well, and can tell you exactly when to go and where to stay.
At A Glance
Club Med Kiroro Grand
Mountain and ocean views! This family friendly destination opens in December 2023. Club Med Kiroro Grand offers all-inclusive ski holiday and some of the best snow in Hokkaido up to 21 metres each year. There are plenty of other reasons to enjoy a Club Med ski holiday at Kiroro Grand:
Club Med Kiroro Peak
Club Med Kiroro Peak welcomes guests from 12 years old and above. This resort opened in 2022 and is tailored to accommodate couples and families with teenagers, guests need to be aged 12 and above. The resort is just a short ride (buggy or gondola) from ‘Grand’. Modern Japanese rooms are inspired by local traditions and contemporary living.
Club Med Kiroro Terrain
This medium sized resort has 23 runs over the two mountain peaks, and offers green, blue and black piste. Great for beginners and intermediate. You’ll also a couple of more challenging courses in the form of mogul runs. Powder skiing and riding can also be found amongst the trees.
We’re all about skiing and snowboarding – it’s our passion. But we also love everything else that makes a ski holiday truly unforgettable. Chat with our Snow Holiday Experts to find the best activities and options for your Kiroro trip.
Onsen & Spa — Japan’s First Natural Onsen
Kiroro is home to Japan’s first natural onsen — and after a big day on the mountain, sinking into these legendary hot spring baths is an experience in itself. Indoor and outdoor pools, pure mineral-rich water, and that deep sense of Japanese relaxation that’ll have your legs ready to go again tomorrow.
Snow Tubing & Snow Park
The kids’ Snow Park is an absolute hit for families — tubing runs, sledding areas and snow play zones that’ll keep the little ones grinning all afternoon. Honestly, the adults love it too.
Snowmobile Tours
Strap in and head out into Kiroro’s backcountry on a guided snowmobile tour. The mountain views from up there are something else, and it’s a brilliant way to explore beyond the ski area.
Snowshoe Tours
Lace up and explore Kiroro’s surrounding wilderness on snowshoes. The forest is stunning in winter — quiet, peaceful and a world away from the slopes. Guided options available if you want a local to show you the good stuff.
Snow Activities for Kids
From snowman-building to guided snow play sessions, Kiroro does a brilliant job keeping younger travellers entertained on and off the mountain. It’s genuinely family-friendly in the best possible way.
Sake & Beer Tastings
Hokkaido produces some of Japan’s finest sake and craft beer, and getting a proper taste of both is a non-negotiable. Whether it’s a brewery tour or a relaxed tasting session, our Snow Holiday Experts can point you in the right direction — itadakimasu.
Otaru Town Visit
Just 45 minutes from Kiroro, the historic canal town of Otaru is one of Hokkaido’s most charming day trips. Wander the cobblestone streets lined with old merchant buildings, explore independent sake breweries, and stock up on Hokkaido’s legendary fresh seafood and glassware. It’s a brilliant afternoon off the hill — and a side of Japan that most ski tourists completely miss.
Day Trip to Sapporo
Japan’s fifth-largest city is only an hour from Kiroro and absolutely worth a day of your trip. Ramen, whisky distilleries, incredible food markets and a buzzing nightlife scene — Sapporo is the perfect complement to your mountain days.
Ski & Snowboard Lessons
Whether you’re clicking into bindings for the first time or chasing steeper lines, Kiroro’s English-speaking instructors are excellent. Private and group lessons available for all ages and abilities — our team can help you book the right option before you go.
Accommodation
Fly into New Chitose Airport (via Tokyo from NZ)
From there, enjoy a 90 minute drive through to Kiroro.
There are shared and private transfer options to get you from the airport to the resort in comfort and style, no matter your preference. Or take your own path and get Travel & Co to organise you a rental car.
Connect with our Snow Holiday Experts who can organise all the best options for you
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