Sapporo Kokusai

🏔️ History
Located just a 60-minute drive from downtown Sapporo (a city of nearly 2 million people), Sapporo Kokusai is the go-to day-trip mountain for locals. It has no on-mountain accommodation, relying instead on the nearby hot spring town of Jozankei Onsen. It is renowned for its incredible snow reliability and an exceptionally long season that stretches well into May.

☀️ Best days
Cold weekdays in January. Due to its mountainous geography, it acts as a magnet for massive snowstorms, guaranteeing an abundance of deep powder, ideal for those seeking premium snow without straying far from the city.

🚫 Days to avoid
Sunny weekends. Being so close to a major metropolis, Kokusai quickly fills up with local families and young riders from Sapporo, leading to long queues at its few (but long) lifts, particularly the main gondolas.

💡 Community tip
The mountain is relatively compact with few, albeit long, runs. The true charm here isn't staying for a week, but rather combining a massive powder day with an evening soak in the spectacular hot springs (Onsen) in the neighboring town of Jozankei. Perfect if you are based in Sapporo and want the best snow within an hour's radius.