Kiroro Ski Resort (キロロスキー場, Kiroro Skījō) is a large snow resort located just outside of Otaru and not far from Sapporo and Niseko. Its location near the Sea of Japan provides the resort with huge quantities of light powder snow, even by Hokkaido's voluminous standards.
Kiroro features a variety of terrain among its over twenty courses with difficulties evenly spread between beginner, intermediate and advanced. In addition to long, groomed and ungroomed runs, the resort also has several in-bounds, forested off-piste areas which offer access to the resort's deepest snow. Several gates offer access to side and backcountry for groups that submit climbing plans at the main lodge.
The main complex at the base of the resort is quite developed and includes several restaurants, shops and onsen. Here, families can sign up for activities ranging from snowmobile rides to snow tubing, as well as a children's snow park. While the resort is not located in a town or village, the resort offers self-contained entertainment and accommodation options at the Yu Kiroro luxury residences and two Club Med resorts.
(December 3, 2023 to May 6, 2024)
Getting there and around
From Sapporo
Hokkaido Resort Liner connects Kiroro Ski Resort by bus with central Sapporo on selected days between late December and late March. The trip takes 90-150 minutes from Sapporo depending on where you get on and costs 2200 yen one way. Reservations are required.
Alternatively, the resort can be reached by car from central Sapporo in about 70 minutes. Winter driving skills are required.
From Otaru
Buses connect central Otaru and Kiroro Ski Resort daily during the ski season until early April. The trip takes about one hour and costs 1300 yen one way. Reservations are recommended.
Alternatively, the resort can also be reached by car from central Otaru in about 45 minutes. Winter driving skills are required.
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Links and Resources
