Full Day Private Skiing / Snowboarding Tour in Sapporo

Experience the Best of Sapporo’s Winter with a Private Ski & Snowboard Day

If you’re visiting Sapporo in winter and want to combine snow sports with authentic Japanese hot springs, this private full-day tour offers an excellent way to do it. For around $228 per person, you get a roughly 6-8 hour adventure that includes transportation, ski or snowboard slopes, and visits to renowned hot springs like Hoheikyo Onsen. The tour is designed for all levels, from complete beginners to seasoned riders, with options for rental gear and expert instruction.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances thrilling outdoor activity with relaxing onsen visits, giving you a full taste of Hokkaido’s winter charms. The guides, especially Tomo, come highly recommended for their friendly attitude and attentiveness, making the experience both safe and fun. And, with pickup service included, there’s no fuss about getting to the slopes.

One potential consideration is that the tour is non-refundable, so weather-dependent cancellations might occur. However, the tour provider promises alternatives or full refunds if the weather turns poor—something to keep in mind if you’re planning your trip during less predictable conditions.

This tour is perfect for travelers who value a personalized experience, enjoy outdoor sports, and want to unwind in Japan’s famous hot springs afterward. Whether you’re a first-timer or a snowboarding veteran, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines skiing or snowboarding with relaxing hot springs in one day.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable and friendly guides like Tomo enhance safety and enjoyment.
• Customizable Slopes: Choose beginner-friendly slopes at Sapporo Kokusai or Bankei ski slopes.
• Convenient Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicle pickup and drop-off at Sapporo Station make logistics easy.
• Value for Money: For the price, you get slope tickets, access to hot springs, and a private guide.
• Authentic Experiences: Visits to top hot springs like Hoheikyo offer a natural healing experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

This full-day private skiing or snowboarding experience is a well-rounded way to enjoy Hokkaido’s winter landscape, with plenty of well-thought-out stops and activities. Starting at Sapporo Station, your guide will pick you up in an air-conditioned vehicle, ready to whisk you off to the mountains. The first stop is Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort, a favorite among beginners and intermediates alike, thanks to its gentle slopes and beautiful mountain scenery.

Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort is the tour’s flagship destination, offering a range of slopes that suit various skill levels. You can select between slopes A and B, both suitable for beginners. Reviewers like Martina appreciate how Tomo, the guide, “accommodated greatly to our different levels of snowboarding,” making the day feel personalized. The slope tickets are included, so there’s no surprise cost at the lift lines, and the scenery atop the slopes is invigorating—crisp air, snow-covered trees, and panoramic views that make every turn memorable.

After about five hours of skiing or snowboarding, the tour shifts gears to relaxation. The highlight here is Hoheikyo Onsen, a natural hot spring renowned for its healing properties. An hour and a half soaking in its mineral-rich waters provides a perfect counterbalance to the physical activity. Many reviews, such as Christian’s, note that the onsen “was very nice, all volcanic waters, super refreshing.” The natural waters and serene environment are a real treat after a day on the slopes.

Optionally, if you’ve selected the dinner upgrade, the guide will take you for a special Japanese dinner prepared by a local chef at Jozankei Onsen. Though the admission isn’t included, this meal adds a memorable culinary touch to your day.

One of the tour’s standout features is the personalized guide experience. Tomo, in particular, receives praise for his patience, local knowledge, and the genuine care he shows for guests—whether teaching a first-timer or helping someone brave the slicing snow with confidence. The reviews highlight how his local insights and attentiveness made the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Transportation is seamless, with pickup at Sapporo Station and punctual returns. The private nature of the tour means you avoid crowded group settings, allowing for a flexible, relaxed pace tailored to your preferences and skill level.

Pricing might seem modest for a full day of activity, especially considering the included slope tickets, onsen entry, and private guide. It’s a good value when you compare it to the cost of individual lift tickets, transportation, and onsen visits booked separately. Plus, the quality of instruction and personal touches from guides like Tomo add to the overall experience.

Highlights and Considerations

While the tour is highly praised for its ease and focus on authentic experiences, a few considerations are worth noting. Since the tour is non-refundable, weather can impact the day—poor snow conditions or storms might cause cancellations or changes. However, the company offers alternatives or full refunds if weather issues arise.

Also, gear rental isn’t included, so if you’re flying in and didn’t bring your equipment, you’ll need to budget for rentals. Luckily, options are available, and many reviews mention the convenience of renting gear on-site.

This tour suits a wide range of travelers: beginners who want to learn in a safe environment, intermediate skiers or snowboarders looking for good terrain, or even seasoned enthusiasts eager to experience Hokkaido’s famous powder snow. The hot spring visits also appeal to those who want to end the day with a soothing soak in natural waters, making it a well-rounded winter adventure.

The Itinerary Explored

Stop 1: Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort
The day begins with a scenic drive to this popular ski area, known for its gentle slopes and beautiful mountain views. Here, you have options: slope A for beginners or slope B, also beginner-friendly. The inclusion of ski slope tickets means no hidden costs, and many travelers, like Victoria, mention how patient guides like Tomo teach with “incredible patience.” The resort’s terrain and friendly instructors make it particularly suited for first-timers or those wanting to build confidence.

Stop 2: Hot Springs & Onsen Visits
After a few hours on the snow, the tour takes you to the Hoheikyo Onsen, which many reviewers say is “the best hot spring ever.” Soaking in volcanic mineral waters, many note how this experience helps relax tired muscles and leaves you feeling rejuvenated. The natural, unspoiled environment of the onsen also enhances the calming effects.

For those who opt for the dinner upgrade, the next stop is Jozankei Onsen, where a traditional Japanese meal awaits. While the admission fee isn’t included, the experience of dining in a cozy, authentic setting adds cultural depth to your day.

Transportation & Timing
The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the approximately 10-minute drive between stops. The entire experience lasts about 6 to 8 hours, giving ample time to enjoy both skiing and relaxation without feeling rushed. The flexibility of a private tour allows your group to set the pace, whether you want to spend longer on the slopes or linger in the onsen.

Authentic Experiences That Make It Special

Many reviews talk about guides like Tomo going “the extra mile,” whether by assisting with gear setup or helping guests conquer fears on the snow. His local expertise turns what could be a typical ski trip into a memorable adventure, especially for those unfamiliar with Japanese hot springs or ski resorts.

The hot springs, particularly Hoheikyo, are often described as “healing” and “very natural,” providing a quintessential Japanese winter ritual. The stunning snowy backdrop makes the soaking experience all the more magical, and many guests mention how vital this part of the tour is for unwinding after hours of physical activity.

The flexibility of choosing slopes and the private nature of the tour means you’re not just another face in a crowd. This personalized approach ensures that your experience matches your comfort level and interests, whether you’re there to learn, to challenge yourself, or simply to relax.

Overall Value and Who Should Book This Tour

Given the inclusions—transportation, slope tickets, hot spring fees—and the personalized guidance, this tour offers excellent value. Booking through a private guide like Tomo also means tailored advice, which is invaluable if you’re new to the area or winter sports. Many reviews emphasize the friendliness, patience, and local knowledge of the guides, making the entire day both enjoyable and educational.

This experience is best suited for adventure seekers eager to combine snow sports with authentic Japanese relaxation. It’s also ideal for families or groups with mixed skill levels, thanks to the slope options and guide flexibility. Travelers looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy Hokkaido’s snowy scenery without the stress of planning transport or figuring out hot springs will find this trip perfectly balanced.

If you enjoy being outdoors, appreciate a touch of cultural experience, and prefer guided convenience, this tour is a solid choice. One thing’s for sure: you’ll leave with fantastic memories of snowy mountains, warm waters, and new skills — or at least a good story about the time you braved the slopes of Sapporo.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides pickup and drop-off service in an air-conditioned vehicle from Sapporo Station.

What skill level do I need?
The tour caters to all levels, including beginners and seasoned skiers or snowboarders. You can choose slopes suited to your ability.

Can I rent equipment?
Ski or snowboard sets are available as an optional rental. Gear wear and gloves are not included, so bring your own or rent on-site.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, with the main activities from 10 am to about 5 pm.

Are hot springs included?
Yes, entry to Hoheikyo Onsen is included. An optional dinner at Jozankei Onsen is available with an upgrade.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s flexibility and focus on beginner slopes suggest it could be enjoyable for families, especially with children learning to ski.

This private ski and snowboarding tour in Sapporo offers a wonderful way to enjoy Hokkaido’s winter terrain while unwinding in natural hot springs. It’s a thoughtfully crafted experience that balances adventure with relaxation, guided by friendly locals who want you to have a memorable day. Perfect for those looking for a hassle-free, authentic winter getaway—don’t miss the chance to see snow-covered mountains and soak in Japan’s famous onsens.