Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tomamu ski-in ski-out?
Yes. Hoshino Resorts Tomamu is a true ski-in/ski-out resort — the lifts, gondola, ski school and rental shop are all clustered at the base of the mountain a short walk from the apartments. Our three Alpha Ski Tomamu apartments are located in The Tower buildings beside the mountain centre, so you can walk out the door in your boots and be on the snow within a couple of minutes.
How do I get from Sapporo to Tomamu?
The easiest way is the JR Tomamu Resort Liner train direct from New Chitose Airport (CTS) — about 90 minutes, with luggage racks designed for ski gear. From central Sapporo, the JR limited express takes around 1 hour 40 minutes via Minami-Chitose. The Hokkaido Resort Liner shuttle bus is another option (around 2 hours 15 minutes from CTS), and a private car is roughly 2 hours via the Doto Expressway.
What is the best time to visit Tomamu?
For powder snow, mid-January to late February is the sweet spot — coldest temperatures, deepest base, most consistent snowfall. December and early January are great if you want the Ice Village in full swing. March is warmer with longer daylight and is excellent for families. In summer (May–October) Tomamu is famous for the Unkai Terrace 'sea of clouds' phenomenon, which is best from late June to early September.
How long is the ski season at Tomamu?
The Tomamu ski season typically runs from late November or early December through to early April, depending on snowfall. Peak conditions are usually mid-December through to mid-March. The mountain receives an average of around 12 metres of snow each season, so reliable powder is essentially guaranteed during the peak months.
Are your apartments family friendly?
Yes. All three Alpha Ski Tomamu apartments are set up for families — full kitchens, washer/dryer, multiple bedrooms, and a sofa-bed in the lounge in some units. The resort itself is one of the most family-friendly in Japan, with English-speaking ski school, an indoor wave pool (Mina-Mina Beach), gentle beginner runs, the Ice Village, and a kids' play area in the village.
Do your units have kitchens and laundry?
Yes — every Alpha Ski Tomamu apartment has a full kitchen with cooktop, microwave, fridge/freezer, kettle, toaster and basic cookware, plus a washer/dryer combo unit for ski gear and clothes. There's a convenience store and small supermarket on the resort for groceries, and a free shuttle to the much larger Seicomart in nearby Tomamu town.
Is English spoken at check-in?
Yes. Hoshino Resorts Tomamu is one of the most international resorts in Hokkaido and the front desk is staffed with English speakers throughout the ski season. Ski rental, ski school, restaurants and the activity desk all have English-speaking staff. We also send you a detailed English check-in guide before your stay, with photos and step-by-step directions.
What's the cancellation policy?
Cancellations made more than 30 days before check-in receive a full refund less the 2% payment processing fee. Cancellations 14–30 days before check-in receive a 50% refund. Cancellations within 14 days of check-in are non-refundable. We strongly recommend taking out travel insurance that covers ski-trip cancellation. The full policy is included with your booking confirmation email.
How much does it cost per night?
Our apartments start from A$299 per night with a 2% payment processing fee at checkout. Cleaning is paid in cash to the front desk on arrival at ¥2,000 per person per night for the first three nights, then ¥1,000 per person per night thereafter. There are no hidden booking fees because you book directly with us — see the Accommodations page for current rates and availability.