Japan Winter Itinerary: Tokyo to Hokkaido Ski Trip in 10 Days
How I do a winter run from Tokyo to Hokkaido: ski days, onsen nights, and minimal transit waste.
Day 1-2: Tokyo Arrival
- Shake off jet lag, light sightseeing (Asakusa, Shibuya at night)
- Gear check; buy hand warmers, layers
Day 3-5: Niseko or Rusutsu (Fly to CTS)
- Fly HND → CTS early; bus to resort
- Ski: 2-3 days powder; night ski if weather allows
- Onsen: Book lodging with onsen; nothing beats soaking after runs
- Food: Soup curry, jingisukan (lamb), Hokkaido dairy treats
Day 6: Otaru Day
- Canal walk, music box shops, seafood kaisendon; winter lights in the evening
Day 7-8: Sapporo
- Sapporo Snow Festival (if timing); Odori Park illuminations
- Beer Museum, ramen alley (miso ramen), chocolate at Shiroi Koibito Park
Day 9: Fly Back to Tokyo
- CTS → HND, buffer day for weather
- Last-minute shopping; teamLab or onsens in Odaiba
Day 10: Departure
- Leave buffer in case of weather delays
Tips for Winter Travel
- Pad extra day for storms; flights can delay
- Layer up: thermal + fleece + shell; waterproof boots
- Reserve resort buses ahead of time; taxis are pricey
- JR Pass usually not worth it; fly + bus is fastest