Where to book your next Australasian ski holiday
Why go to Europe for your ski trip? Here, we weigh up the benefits of this part of the world’s three biggest snow destinations: Japan, Korea and New Zealand.
9 years ago
NISEKO (Japan)
Why we like it: Tucked away in Hokkaido, this is arguably the best place to ski in Japan for skiiers and snowboarders of all levels thanks to the volume of snow, as well as the variety of skiing types available. So whether you want to stick to the slopes or swoosh through perfect powder, Niseko can easily provide. It is also the largest ski resort in Japan.
Ski season: Late Nov-early May
Weather patterns: Located in Northern Japan, Niseko’s weather patterns tend to mimic those of Siberia. This makes for colder and longer winters than the rest of the country. Jun-Aug are the warmest months, while Dec-Mar are the coolest.
Temperature (during ski season): -11.5-8.9 degrees Celsius
Snow depth: Average 1,400cm
The crowd: Mostly tourists from neighboring countries such as Australia, China and Southeast Asia traveling in groups.
Accommodation (splurge pick): The Vtale Niseko
This luxurious, modern hotel is located right on the ski slopes, eliminating transportation problems as you can easily just ski in and out from the hotel grounds. Apart from the open bathrooms that come with a panoramic view of the mountains, you will also be equipped with a private onsen, a heated outdoor pool and sauna.
Starting at B14,526 per night
Accommodation (budget pick): The Setsumon
This charming establishment is an easy 5-10-minute commute to the slopes. The rooms feature private balconies, kitchens and separate living spaces.
Starting at B10,351 per night
Lift Pass: B1,700/8 hours
Equipment rental: Starting at B1,478/day
Airfare: Airasia roundtrip flights to Sapporo cost B14,500
Minimum cost for a 1 week trip: B94,000
YONGPYONG (South Korea)
Why we like it: Located just two hours from Seoul, this summertime golfer’s paradise transforms into the country’s largest ski resort in winter. There are 28 ski slopes that accommodate novice to advanced level skiers with a variety of elevations. It’s a safe pick for anyone traveling in a group with mixed abilities.
Ski season: Nov-early Apr
Weather patterns: Jul and Aug are the resort’s hottest months, when temperatures can go up to 30 degrees Celsius, while Dec and Jan are when the temperature dips at its lowest.
Temperature (during ski season): -10-11 degrees Celsius
Snow depth: Average 250cm
The crowd: Tourists, locals and expats alike. Mostly families with children of various ages.
Accommodation (splurge pick): Dragon Valley Resort Hotel
This massive hotel features rooms that can hold 2-3 people, as well as family-friendly facilities such as an indoor pool, outdoor pool, children’s pool, lazy river and even an indoor arcade. For those traveling without children, the hotel is also home to a spa, pool area and bowling alley.
Starting at B9,555 per night
Accommodation (budget pick): Youth Hostel
Rooms that can accommodate from 7-20 guests come with a shared shower and kitchenette on every floor. Guests can opt for either a private two-person room, or shared room with bunk beds.
Starting at B350 per person
Lift Pass: B1,787/day
Equipment rental: Starting at B791/day
Airfare: China Southern roundtrip flights to Seoul start at B32,847
Minimum cost for a 1 week trip: B65,000
TREBLE CONE (New Zealand)
Why we like it: Just a 90-minute drive from Queenstown, New Zealand’s largest ski resort is home to varying elevations, perfect for those traveling with friends of all skiing abilities. Remarkable views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps make for a refreshing snowy getaway as you get your adrenaline rush. Those traveling with young children don’t have to worry either, as there are two family-friendly parks. The upkeep of this resort is always impeccable.
Ski season: Late Jun-late Sep
Weather patterns: Because of its location in the southern hemisphere, Treble Cone’s hottest months are Dec-Mar while its coldest months are Jun-Aug.
Temperature (during ski season): 0-13 degrees Celsius during ski season
Snow depth: Average 325 cm
The crowd: A handful of visitors during the weekdays, but usually draws a giant local crowd during the weekend.
Accommodation (splurge pick): Oakridge Resort Wanaka
This luxurious hotel is set on a mountain with remarkable views of the Southern Alps. All rooms come with comfortable and firm feather duvets, along with a classic, cozy layout. The resort also offers outdoor heated rock pools crafted from rock and alpine tussock, along with a well-equipped gym and a day spa.
Starting at B3,810 per night
Accommodation (budget pick): Lake Hawea Hotel
Also a popular wedding destination, this recently-refurbished hotel offers a beautiful view of the large, peaceful and serene Lake Hawea and the surrounding mountains, along with spacious living space and comfortable beds lined with sheep-spun blankets.
Starting at B692 per night
Lift Pass: B2,443/day
Equipment rental: Starting at B1,083
Airfare: Qantas Airways roundtrip to Queenstown start at B45,485
Minimum cost for a 1 week trip: B79,000
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