Flexibility with a side of luxury: is this the new way to travel Hokkaido in winter?

Campervan Inc., Hoshino Resorts Tomamu and OMO7 Asahikawa launch Hokkaido Powder Belt Campervan Plan

Powder seekers will have a new way to travel this winter, with the launch of the Hokkaido Powder Belt Campervan plan – a “flexible way to chase the region’s powder snow”. The innovative partnership will see a dash of luxury added to traditional campervan travel, with customers given access to dining and wellness facilities at top hotels in Asahikawa and Tomamu, as well as a 5-day lift ticket serving Furano Ski Resort, Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU and Kamui Ski Links.

A new way to travel Hokkaido in winter?

The product will be available for use from 21 December 2024 to March 21 2025, with 5-day/4-night packages starting at 215,300 yen (~US$1512). Vehicle pick up and return will be from Campervan Inc.’s New Chitose office.

Guests will have access to facilities at both Hoshino Resorts Tomamu and OMO7 Asahikawa, including free parking, daily buffet breakfast, dry room and waxing services and well as bathing and swimming facilities.

It’s an end to the days of campervan travellers “roughing it”, with OMO7 Asahikawa’s hotspring facility Sauna PLATEAU and Tomamu’s Kirin-no Yu – a picturesque open-air bath – offering a relaxing retreat after a long day on the slopes. The buffet breakfast at either of the two properties promises to be a notable step up from the classic konbini breakfast, the traditional staple for those one the road.

Kirin no Yu, Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU

“Knowing that ski resort conditions can change drastically depending on the snowfall, wind direction, and temperature, this plan was created to align with the flexible travel style of guests who want to choose their runs based on the snow conditions across the Hokkaido Powder Belt”, read a statement on the new partnership.

“Campervans are therefore perfect for those wanting a free-spirited ski holiday experience chasing the finest powder snow in the region, and without having to worry about accommodation. The campervans provided in this plan have dedicated sleeping spaces and face-to-face tables for a comfortable stay.”

Is it good value?

From what we could tell from a price simulation found on the website, the 215,300 yen (~US$1512) “from” price is for mid-week dates in March, based on a single person occupying the campervan. The price jumps up for additional passengers and or different dates within the December 21, 2024 – March 31, 2025 usage period.

On the base price alone, the package appears to be very attractive. Renting a Robinson 771 on its own will set customers back 31,900 yen a day (159,500 yen for 5 days), as quoted on the Japan C.R.C. website, which means that for the modest sum of 55,800 yen (~US$393) you’re getting a 5-day lift pass, four buffet breakfasts as well as facility access (see below for details). Valued at 35,000 yen (~US$247), a single 5-day Hokkaido Powder Belt lift pass will get you most of the way there, and that’s before you’ve added in the cost of breakfast or considered the value of parking or entry into any of the facilities.

What’s included

• Campervan (Robinson771 or Robinson106) for up to four people, economy insurance, studless tires, ETC card for overseas guests,
• Hokkaido Powder Belt Pass 5-Day Ticket
• Tomamu: 2 breakfasts, 2 nights at Mina-Mina Beach & Kirin no Yu, amenities.
• OMO7 Asahikawa: 2 breakfasts, 2 nights at Sauna Plateau, use of OMO WAX BAR, use of ski drying room, amenities

Ski resorts in the Hokkaido Powder Belt

Tomamu Ski Resort

With 6 lifts and 29 courses, Tomamu Ski Resort caters to the desires of all skiers and snowboarders, offering a range of slopes from beginner to advanced levels. With many days experiencing temperatures below -10 degrees Celsius, it’s a bustling haven for those seeking the ultimate powder snow experience.

Furano Ski Resort

Comprising two areas, “Furano ZONE” and “Kitanomine ZONE,” Furano Ski Resort boasts a total of 28 courses, with the longest run stretching an impressive 4,000 meters. In the Furano ZONE, the “Furano Ropeway” can carry up to 101 people, swiftly transporting skiers and snowboarders to the summit.

Kamui Ski Links

Located just a 30-minute drive from Asahikawa City, Kamui Ski Links boasts 25 courses, making it the largest ski resort in the northern Hokkaido area. Among Hokkaido enthusiasts, it’s often referred to as “Japan’s strongest local ski resort.”

Hoshino Resorts Tomamu / Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Tomamu

Situated near the heart of Hokkaido, this is a resort designed for extended stays. Centred around two hotels, “Tomamu The Tower” and “RISONARE Tomamu,” guests can enjoy activities that allow them to experience Hokkaido throughout the four seasons.

How to book

Visit the partnership website here.