Snow Meets City Lights: A Guide to Urban Ski Trips in Hokkaido

OMO by Hoshino Resorts

Discover Japan's New Take on Ski Travel

When you think of skiing in Japan, visions of remote mountain lodges and deep powder in Niseko or Furano may come to mind. But a new trend is taking shape in Hokkaido—urban ski trips that combine world-class slopes with the cultural richness of the city. Thanks to OMO by Hoshino Resorts, travellers can now experience a different side of winter in Japan, where ski adventures meet city exploration and culinary delights are just steps from your hotel room.

With three OMO hotels across Hokkaido—in Asahikawa, Otaru, and Hakodate—this growing concept is redefining what a ski holiday can be.

Flexibility on the Slopes, Comfort in the City

One of the biggest perks of an urban ski trip is flexibility. Based in cities with multiple nearby ski resorts, travellers can assess live weather and snow conditions each morning before deciding where to go. With up-to-date information and live camera feeds provided at OMO hotels, guests can chase the freshest powder without being tied to a single resort.

After a day on the slopes, return to a bustling city where restaurants, local attractions, and evening experiences await—something remote ski resorts simply can’t offer.

Après-Ski Like a Local

OMO by Hoshino Resorts

Forget generic resort fare. Urban ski trips unlock the full range of local cuisine. In Asahikawa, sample famous ramen and grilled chicken in izakayas tucked down side streets. In Otaru, wander through historic canals and dine in renovated warehouses that now serve the region’s finest seafood. Hakodate's morning markets and seafood stalls let you start your day with a bowl of ocean-fresh donburi.

By staying in the city, you’re never far from authentic, local flavor.

Culture, Comfort, and Convenience

These ski-friendly cities offer more than just a base for snow sports—they’re destinations in their own right. Museums, scenic cruises, hot springs, and historic streets mean your trip remains full of experiences even on rest days or during unexpected weather.

And because urban areas are generally more affordable than resort towns, you can enjoy longer stays and more diverse activities without stretching your travel budget.

Ski-Ready Amenities at Every Turn

OMO by Hoshino Resorts

OMO by Hoshino Resorts has tailored its services for snow-loving travellers. Each facility offers maps of nearby ski resorts, live updates, shuttle buses to the slopes, and gear-specific services like drying rooms, lockers, and waxing stations. The convenience is built-in, leaving more time for skiing and sightseeing.

Here’s a closer look at what each OMO property offers this winter season:

OMO7 Asahikawa by Hoshino Resorts

Asahikawa is a central hub with access to Kamui Ski Links, Asahidake, and Furano. With over 2,000 restaurants in the city, it's perfect for après-ski explorers.

• Live Cameras of Nearby Resorts
  Check slope conditions in real time before you even leave the hotel.

• Mountain City Pub
  Après-ski takes on new life here with snowboard-shaped plates and hearty regional dishes.

• Gourmet Discovery Tours
  Let local guides lead you to hidden culinary gems featuring Asahikawa’s ramen and grilled specialties.

• Sauna Plateau
  Soothe tired muscles in rotating high-temperature and mist saunas.

OMO5 Otaru by Hoshino Resorts

This port town’s charm comes alive in winter. Stay among historic warehouses and stroll cobblestone streets after a day at nearby Kiroro Snow World.

• Kiroro Snow World Privileges
  Enjoy exclusive discounts on lift tickets and gear rentals.

• Otaru Night Lounge
  Lantern-lit interiors and live antique music boxes create an atmospheric evening hangout.

• Otaru Canal Kotatsu Cruise
  Cruise through snow-covered canals while staying warm under a traditional heated table.

• Morning Market Donburi Tour
  Visit Sankaku Market to create your own seafood bowl with the freshest catches of the day.

OMO5 Hakodate by Hoshino Resorts

Combining mountain scenery with seaside charm, Hakodate offers a relaxed ski escape enriched by history and culinary depth.

• Sea Lantern Lounge
  Wind down to jazz and sample local bites in a cozy, lantern-lit lounge.

• Amber-Coloured Hot Spring
  Rich in minerals, this onsen’s natural warmth lingers long after your soak.

• Ice Fishing in Onuma Park
  Catch smelt from beneath the ice, then enjoy fresh tempura prepared on the spot.

• Hakodate Morning Market Tour
  Join local guides at the bustling JIYUU Market for tastings and stories from the city's culinary heart.

Urban Skiing Redefined

The urban ski trip is more than a trend—it's a smarter, more enriching way to experience winter in Japan. Whether you're carving fresh powder in the morning or enjoying jazz over seafood by night, Hokkaido’s OMO hotels offer the perfect blend of slope-side adventure and city comfort.

For more information or to book your urban ski trip, visit:
www.hoshinoresorts.com

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