1 Day Ski Tour Package from Sapporo Station

If you’re looking to hit the slopes while visiting Sapporo, this 1 Day Ski Tour from Sapporo Station offers an inviting blend of convenience, affordability, and fun. For just $91, you get a full day of skiing, transportation, gear, and even the option of a beginner lesson — all tailored to make your day on the snow as smooth as possible.

One of the things we love most about this tour is how it takes all the hassle out of planning a ski day in Hokkaido. It’s designed for travelers who want to maximize their time on the slopes rather than stressing over logistics. Plus, with short travel times from central Sapporo — only about 20-30 minutes — you get more skiing and less commuting.

A potential drawback? The tour is quite structured, so if you’re someone who likes to explore at your own pace or wants to try multiple resorts, you might find this setup a bit limiting. Still, for those who prefer a guided, all-inclusive experience, this is a solid choice.

This tour suits beginners eager to learn, budget travelers, and those short on time but still wanting a full ski day in Hokkaido’s famed snow.

Key Points

• Convenient Location: Only 20-30 minutes from Sapporo, saving travel time and maximizing slope time.
• All-Inclusive Package: Ski gear, transportation, and optional lesson included, making it easy and hassle-free.
• Flexible Skiing Time: Up to 5 hours of skiing at your own pace during the day.
• Affordable Price: Offers good value, especially with discounted rental and lesson packages.
• Guided Experience: Native English-speaking guide provides support throughout the day.
• Suitable for Beginners: Optional two-hour lesson helps newcomers get started confidently.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour: What You Can Expect

Starting Off at Sapporo Station

Your day begins bright and early at 7:30 am, with a pickup at MyomuJapan near Sapporo Station. The easy start time is perfect if you’re a morning person or want to make the most of your day. From there, the journey to BanKei Ski Resort is short and smooth, thanks to the shuttle service and public transport options available during peak season. With this setup, you won’t spend precious hours stuck in traffic; instead, you’ll be gliding down slopes in no time.

Arrival at BanKei Ski Resort

Once you arrive, your guide will take you to the main lodge, where you’ll meet your ski rental gear — jackets, pants, skis, boots, poles, and bindings. The rental process is straightforward, and the gear quality is generally good, ensuring comfort and safety. After that, your guide will distribute your lift tickets and point out the various slopes and lifts, so you can navigate confidently.

Skiing and Ski Lessons

The heart of the day is, of course, the skiing. You’re free to ski for up to 5 hours, with flexibility to take breaks or explore different runs at your pace. The resort has 17 runs catering to all levels, from green beginner slopes to more challenging reds and blues.

For those new to skiing, there’s an optional two-hour beginner lesson. The guide helps you check in and get comfortable on your skis, which is especially helpful for first-timers. One reviewer mentioned that the instructor was “very patient and clear,” making them feel more confident on the slopes after the lesson. Afterward, you can practice your new skills independently.

Practical Tips from Reviews

Reviewers appreciated the clarity of instructions and the proximity of the slopes to the rental shop, which made it easy to transition from gear fitting to skiing. One commented, “The guide was always around to answer questions, which made me feel safe and supported.” Others highlighted the convenience of having a guide to help with navigating the resort, especially if unfamiliar with the area.

Lunch and Breaks

While the tour includes a full day of skiing, it doesn’t specify lunch arrangements. You’ll want to bring snacks or plan to buy food at the resort. The guide points out good spots to rest and eat, and there are options for quick bites if you prefer to maximize ski time.

End of the Day

Skiing wraps up at 4:30 pm, after which you’ll be transported back to Sapporo Station. The return trip is quick, giving you plenty of time afterward to explore the city or relax after a full day on the snow.

Transportation and Group Size

This tour is ideal for those who prefer organized transportation without the hassle of planning multiple connections. With the shuttle included, you avoid the complexity of navigating public transit with ski gear. The group size is capped at 20 travelers, balancing a social atmosphere with enough space for personalized attention.

Why It Matters

Smaller groups mean better support from guides, who can assist with equipment and answer questions, enhancing the overall experience. On top of that, the short travel time ensures you spend more of your day skiing rather than on buses.

Price and Value

At $91, this tour offers good value, especially considering that ski equipment rental and a guide are included. Compared to other Hokkaido resorts, BanKei is known for its lower prices, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious visitors. The optional beginner lessons are a bonus, giving newcomers a chance to learn without extra hassle or cost.

When you factor in the convenience, gear, and guidance, the price balances well against the experience, especially since you’re getting a full day of skiing in a popular resort close to Sapporo.

Final Thoughts: Who is This Tour Best For?

This ski tour is perfect for beginners or casual skiers eager for a hassle-free day on the slopes without the need to rent or carry gear on their own. It’s also a great option for budget travelers who want a full ski experience without breaking the bank. The organized pickup and transportation, combined with the guide’s support, make it suitable for solo travelers, small groups, or first-timers.

However, if you’re someone who prefers to customize every detail of your ski day or plans to ski multiple resorts, this tour’s structure might feel a bit limiting. Still, for a straightforward, well-organized day of skiing with minimal fuss, it’s a very solid choice.

FAQs

Is transportation to and from Sapporo Station included?
Yes, transportation from Sapporo Station to BanKei Ski Resort and back is included in the tour price, making it very convenient.

Can I rent ski gear for the day?
Absolutely. Ski equipment, including skis, boots, poles, jackets, and pants, is included in the package, so you don’t need to bring or find your own gear.

What if I am a complete beginner?
There is an optional two-hour beginner ski lesson designed to help newcomers learn the basics. The guide will assist in checking you into the ski school and ensuring you’re comfortable.

What should I bring with me?
You should consider bringing gloves, goggles, and helmets, which can be purchased at the ski shop for about JPY1,000 and JPY1,500, respectively. Also, bring snacks or lunch, as these are not included in the tour.

How many hours can I ski?
You can enjoy up to 5 hours of skiing, with flexibility to take breaks and explore different slopes.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour is accessible to all skill levels, it’s best for families with children who are comfortable in a guided group and possibly taking lessons, given the structured nature.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits groups to 20 travelers, which helps ensure a more personal experience and attentive guides.

Wrapping Up

This 1 Day Ski Tour from Sapporo Station offers a practical, budget-friendly way to enjoy Hokkaido’s renowned snow without the stress of planning every detail. It’s especially suited for beginners or those looking for a straightforward, guided day on the slopes. With short travel times, included gear, and optional lessons, it’s a solid choice for anyone eager to experience high-quality skiing in one of Japan’s top destinations.

Whether you’re new to skiing or just short on time, this tour delivers a full day of snowy fun with the ease of a guided experience, leaving you with memories of fresh powder and beautiful mountain views.