Family-friendly ski resorts in Asia

Asian ski resorts that your kids will love.

Planning a winter family holiday with young children is a daunting task, and the thought of having to deal with their tantrums during a blizzard can cause nightmares for parents. Here are our top picks so that you can leave your kids in good hands whilst you enjoy some pristine white snow.

Niseko (Japan)

Niseko is one of the more popular resorts in Japan and features regularly in discussions on the world’s best powder destination. The benefits of the larger ski resorts are that there are plenty of options to choose from so that your kids can enjoy themselves whilst the adults can experience the world-class powder.

One accommodation that offers an in-house kids club is AYA Niseko. The hotel boasts ski-in ski-out positioning and is also steps away from the middle of Hirafu village, resulting in a perfect blend of luxury and convenience.

Skiers explore Niseko Grand Hirafu in December, 2015.

Niseko also has several ski schools that offer children’s lessons (group and private), including NBS, Gondola Snowsports and NISS. And if the kids don’t want to ski? Take them to the NAC Kids Garden, a giant 3-storey indoor playground playground. It’s located inside Jojos, a popular Niseko cafe/restaurant, where weary parents can relax with a coffee or glass of wine.

Read our complete guide to Niseko United.

Club Med Sahoro / Club Med Tomamu (Japan)

If you have young children and haven’t heard of Club Med, you are missing out. These resorts provide all-inclusive services so that the only time you need to see your little trouble-makers are when they are too tired from all the playing.

Sahoro ski resort, Japan.

Club Med Sahoro and Tomamu are located in central Hokkaido, easily accessible from New Chitose International Airport, Obihiro Airport and Asahikawa Airport. Club Med Tomamu opened for the 2017/2018 season, so expect excellent facilities. On the other hand, Club Med Sahoro has a proven track record in providing its famously friendly service to all members of your family. Rest assured the kind staff of Club Med will take care of the children, whilst the adults can enjoy the best Hokkaido has to offer.

Club Med Beidahu (China)

You may notice that there is a pattern forming. Club Med Beidahu opened up in the 2016/2017 season and has upheld the quality service that the brand provides. Beidahu is located in the area of Jilin, China, which is a 2.5 hour transfer from Changchun Longjia International Airport. If flights to Japan are a bit too steep, Club Med Beidahu may be a viable option. With China set to host the 2022 Winter Olympics, one can expect further upgrades in the near future.

Club Med Beidahu. Image: Club Med

South Korea

Ski resorts in South Korea are a good option for families that want to balance skiing with other attractions. With many of the resorts in close proximity to Seoul and water parks near the resorts, there are activities for everyone in the family. For more information, check out our article on the top 5 South Korean ski resorts.

Yongpyong piste © Korea Tourism Organisation