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Hokkaido is preparing to open the ski season.
The ski season in Hokkaido is expected to get underway in late November 2026, with several of the island’s major ski resorts planning to open their slopes as early as November 28.
Opening Dates – 2026/27 Season
Niseko United – November 28, 2026Night skiing in Niseko – starting December 12, 2026Grand Hirafu – November 28, 2026Hanazono – November 28, 2026Niseko Village – November 28, 2026Annupuri – November 28, 2026Rusutsu Resort – November 28, 2026Kiroro Snow World – November 28, 2026Furano Ski Resort – November 28, 2026
Photo: hskiclub instagram
Hokkaido is considered one of the world’s most famous powder destinations, thanks to the light, dry snow associated with Japow* (a combination of Japan and Powder, a nickname for the dry, light powder snow characteristic of Japan).January and February are generally the peak months for skiers who come specifically for deep snow and powder.
Those planning to visit in February can combine their ski holiday with the Sapporo Snow Festival, a famous annual snow festival in Sapporo featuring giant snow and ice sculptures, performances, and events, which will take place from February 4 to 11, 2027.
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