Sapporo: Otaru Asarigawa Ski Resort Day Trip with Gear

If you’re visiting Sapporo and craving a taste of winter sports without the hassle of planning your own trip, this day tour might be just what you need. For around $182 per person, you’ll hop on a comfortable bus, head to the picturesque Otaru Asarigawa Ski Resort, and learn to ski or snowboard with professional guidance. The tour is designed with beginners in mind, offering full gear, lift access, and instruction in both Chinese and English — making it accessible for international travelers.

Two things we love about this experience are how high-quality snow and gentle slopes create a safe environment for newcomers, and the chance to learn from professional instructors who make the activity approachable and fun. Plus, the included gear simplifies the process, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own equipment.

One consideration to keep in mind is the time constraints — with only about four hours on the snow, serious skiers might find it a bit short for full practice or advanced moves. It’s perfect for first-timers or those wanting a quick, guided intro to skiing. This tour suits travelers who want a hassle-free, beginner-friendly snow experience without the expense or commitment of a multi-day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

All-Inclusive Package: Lift pass, ski gear, and professional instruction are included, removing the need for extra planning.
Beginner Friendly: Focused on gentle slopes with high-quality snow, ideal for first-timers.
Multilingual Guidance: Instructions available in Chinese and English, making it accessible for international visitors.
Flexible Scheduling: Daily departures with a minimum of just one person, ensuring flexibility.
Additional Skewers: Options for single or double board packages, catering to different preferences.
Safety & Comfort: Helmets, goggles, and boots are included, with optional skiwear rental available.

While in Sapporo, here are other experiences we've covered

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting from Sapporo Station, the tour departs early in the day, with a friendly guide waiting at the designated meeting point (the Sapporoekikitaguchi Bus Parking Lot). Since Sapporo Station is under construction, it’s wise to confirm your meeting details beforehand or arrive early. From there, the comfortable bus ride to Otaru Asarigawa takes about an hour, giving you a chance to enjoy scenic views of snowy landscapes as you leave the city behind.

First Impressions: The Ski Resort

Upon arrival, your guide will provide you with your equipment — skis, boots, poles, helmet, and goggles. You’ll also receive your lift pass, which grants access to the slopes throughout the day. The quality of the snow at Asarigawa is often praised, with many reviews noting how smooth and forgiving the surface is, perfect for learning or casual skiing.

The Lesson: Learning in a Friendly Environment

The highlight of this trip for beginners is the two-hour instruction session. Whether in Chinese or English, your professional instructor will start with the basics — how to slide, stop, and turn — on gentle slopes that are perfect for gaining confidence. We especially appreciated that the instructor provided clear safety instructions before each lift ride, emphasizing the importance of following guidance for a safe experience.

One reviewer shared: “The instructor was very patient and made me feel at ease on my first day on skis.” This emphasis on safety and encouragement helps reduce nerves and builds trust in your new skills.

More Great Tours Nearby

Free Time & Practice

After the lesson, there’s time for lunch (not included in the tour), giving you a chance to relax and chat with fellow travelers or enjoy some local snacks. The afternoon session allows for more practice, where you can try out what you’ve learned in a relaxed setting. The slopes are designed for beginners, with no intimidating steep sections, and plenty of high-quality snow for smooth turns.

As one traveler noted, “It was a relief to ski on such soft snow after practicing in the lesson — I felt like I was really improving.” This free practice time complements the morning lesson perfectly, allowing you to cement your newfound skills.

While you're exploring Sapporo, here are other experiences we've looked into

Return and Reflection

As the day winds down, you’ll return your equipment and hop back aboard the bus to Sapporo, arriving early evening. Although the schedule is tight, it’s enough to give you a genuine taste of winter sports in Japan without overextending your day.

Practical Tips & Considerations

Clothing & Personal Items: While helmets, goggles, and boots are provided, you’ll need to bring or rent your own gloves and wear warm, layered clothing suitable for snowy outdoor conditions.
Age & Health Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or travelers with medical conditions. The activity also requires a minimum height of 4 ft 3 in (130 cm).
Weather & Cancellations: The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions are unsafe or weather forces cancellation, you’ll be fully refunded. Keep an eye on the forecast and confirm the schedule before departure.
Flexible Payment & Booking: You can reserve your spot now and pay later, which is handy if your plans are still shifting.
Group Size & Instruction: With up to 10 participants per instructor, expect a personalized experience, but be prepared for some waiting if your group is larger.

Why This Tour Works Well

If you’re looking for a stress-free introduction to skiing or snowboarding, this trip offers excellent value. The professional guidance and full gear make it accessible to complete beginners, and the scenic location in Hokkaido adds a lovely backdrop to your day. It’s particularly suited for travelers who aren’t looking for a multi-day commitment but still want a memorable winter activity.

For families, couples, or solo travelers eager to try snow sports in Japan, this tour provides a hands-on, supportive environment. Advanced skiers and snowboarders might find it a bit limited, but for those starting out, it’s a fantastic way to gain confidence in a safe, well-organized setting.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Sapporo to Otaru Asarigawa Ski Resort offers more than just a chance to ski — it’s an opportunity to enjoy Japan’s high-quality snow in a beginner-friendly environment, guided by professional instructors who speak your language. The inclusion of gear, lift passes, and lessons makes it a practical choice for travelers who want to try snow sports without the hassle of logistics or equipment rental.

While the schedule may feel brief for seasoned skiers, it’s perfect for newcomers or those with limited time. The experience is straightforward, safe, and fun, giving you just enough time to learn and enjoy the snow. If you’re after a hassle-free, well-organized introduction to Japan’s winter landscape, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed specifically with beginners in mind, offering professional instruction and gentle slopes with high-quality snow.

What equipment is included?
Skis, boots, poles, a helmet, and goggles are included. You can also rent skiwear if needed.

Can I choose between snowboard and ski packages?
Yes, there are single board and double board packages available, catering to your preferences.

What language are the instructions given in?
Guidance is available in both Chinese and English, making the experience accessible for international travelers.

How long is the total activity?
The total time on the snow is approximately four hours, with a two-hour lesson in the morning and free practice in the afternoon.

What should I bring?
Wear warm layered clothing, and bring gloves if not renting, plus any personal essentials. The tour includes safety gear, but you may want to bring your own gloves for extra warmth.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have time to purchase food at the resort or bring snacks.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled due to bad weather or natural disasters. If canceled, you will receive a full refund.

Can I join alone?
Yes, there’s no minimum group size, so solo travelers are welcome and will join other participants.

Is this suitable for children?
Not for children under 7 years old, and children must meet the height requirement of 4 ft 3 in (130 cm).

In the end, this tour provides a well-rounded, safe, and enjoyable way to experience winter sports in Hokkaido, especially for those new to skiing or snowboarding. Its convenience and focus on beginner-friendly slopes make it an excellent choice for a quick, fun escape into Japan’s snowy landscape.