Endless Adventures in Hokkaido

Hokkaido Powder Belt - Record Snowfall, Endless Turns & Epic Adventures 

Josh has been to Hokkaido more times than he can count, but this year? This year was different. Not only did he experience some of the deepest powder days, but he also had the chance to meet the awesome team at Local Freshies, who travelled from North America. 

Oh and did we mention? Hokkaido is having a record-breaking snow season, and the powder is still dumping now! If you've ever dreamed of skiing Japan's legendary snow, there's never been a better time to go. 

What makes the Hokkaido Powder Belt so special? 

Hokkaido's Powder Belt is a snow lover's dream stretching through central Hokkaido and connecting some of the best resorts in Japan. The snow here is unlike anywhere else in the world - light, dry and unbelievably deep thanks to cold Siberian storms that deliver fresh powder almost every day. 

And the best part? The resorts in this region are far less crowded than places like Niseko, meaning more fresh tracks and fewer lift lines. 

Josh chased the snow across the Powder Belt and these resorts delivered in a big way: 

• Furano Ski Resort - a perfect mix of groomers, steeps and some of the best off-piste terrain in Japan and the snowfall this year made it a paradise 
• Hoshino Resorts Tomamu - where luxury meets powder. With untouched tree runs and deep bowls, Tomamu was pure magic this season. 
• Kamui Ski Links - the ultimate hidden gem! A laid-back, local vibe and no crowds meant fresh lines all day long. 

With the Hokkaido Powder Belt Pass, you can ski all three resorts and chase the best conditions every day.

More than just skiing 

The trip wasn't all about the skiing (well, mostly). Between deep powder runs, he also: 

• Soaked in steaming hot springs after big days on the mountain
• Ate delicious food particularly ramen and fresh seafood 
• Explored local villages that felt a word away from the big resort crowds 

This season has been one for the books, and with Qantas launching direct flights from Sydney to Sapporo's New Chitose Airport in December 2025, getting to the Powder Belt is about to become even easier. 

During this incredible trip, Josh had the pleasure of meeting the team at Local Freshies - a crew of passionate skiers and snowboarders who live for deep turns and authentic mountain experiences. They're all about uncovering hidden-gem ski destinations, sharing insider tips and diving into local culture to help riders make the most of their trips. If you want the full scoop on their Hokkaido adventure, check out their article here! 

Photos supplied by; Jaime Pirozzi | Local Freshies®