- Before the Trip: Which Ski Resort Is Easy to Access from Sapporo?
- Worries Beforehand: No Idea Which School to Choose
- The Turning Point: A Local Friend’s Advice
- How to Get There: 1 Hour by Bus from Sapporo
- The Ski School Dilemma: Fully Booked on the Day
- Our Experience: Practicing in the Snow Play Area
- Conclusion: Sapporo Kokusai is Great for Families & Beginners
- THE NORTH FACE Kids GORE-TEX Insulated Pants (130–150cm)
- THE NORTH FACE Winter Coach Jacket & Snow Insulation Bib (Baby)
- THE NORTH FACE Kids Scoop Jacket
Before the Trip: Which Ski Resort Is Easy to Access from Sapporo?
My kids had been saying, “I want to try snowboarding!” and I really wanted to let them. During our recent trip to Hokkaido, I started searching for a ski resort close to Sapporo.
Since we weren’t planning to rent a car due to snow-covered roads, and I had no sense of the area, I wasn’t even sure which ski resort was closest or easiest to reach.
Worries Beforehand: No Idea Which School to Choose
I’ve snowboarded before, but I’m still a beginner. My kids were complete beginners too—and they’re different ages. I didn’t know which course or school would suit them best.
As I researched, I started thinking, “Maybe we should give up on the ski resort and just enjoy Sapporo city…”
The Turning Point: A Local Friend’s Advice
Then I mentioned to a friend from Hokkaido, “We’re heading there tomorrow!” and they said, “Your son would LOVE snowboarding. Check out Sapporo Kokusai—it’s even taxi-accessible!”
I immediately looked it up and found out that a bus runs directly from Sapporo!
How to Get There: 1 Hour by Bus from Sapporo
I asked the kids, “There’s a ski resort we can get to by bus. Want to go?” and they both replied, “Yes!”
I quickly booked the bus (you need to reserve and pay by the day before. You *might* get a seat on the day, but I recommend booking both trips in advance!).
On the day, we boarded the bus and arrived at Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort in about an hour.
The Ski School Dilemma: Fully Booked on the Day
We headed straight to the ski school—but it was fully booked! I was so disappointed. I really should have reserved in advance…
I explained our situation to the staff and they kindly suggested: “If they’re beginners, try the snow play area first instead of getting lift tickets.”
Our Experience: Practicing in the Snow Play Area
We rented boards and headed to the snow play area. I taught them what I could remember, and they started trying on their own.
They fell over again and again at first—but gradually got the hang of it, and before I knew it, they were sliding smoothly!
They kept saying “This is so fun!” and played nonstop until the bus ride home.
Conclusion: Sapporo Kokusai is Great for Families & Beginners
That night in the hotel, the kids kept saying, “Snowboarding was so fun! I want to do it again!”
Seeing their happy faces made me truly glad we went. I’m grateful to the friend who encouraged us—Sapporo Kokusai is an amazing option for beginner snowboarders and families!
🎿 Planning your ski trip in Sapporo?
Click here to book your visit to Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort
Kids’ Snowboard Jackets & Pants We Recommend
For Kids
High-performance snow pants combining waterproof protection and warmth — perfect for snow play and snowboarding.
Perfect for baby’s first snow adventure ⛄ A waterproof and warm set from THE NORTH FACE.
For Adults
