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Sapporo Moiwa Ski Resort in Sapporo, Japan

As part of our resources for visitors to Sapporo, we present this guide to Sapporo Moiwa Ski Resort; one of three local ski resorts in Sapporo.

Sapporo Moiwa Ski Area

— Overview of Moiwa Ski Resort
— Moiwa is a Scenic Ski Resort Close to Central Sapporo
— Where is Moiwa Ski Resort Located?
— How do we Get to Moiwa Ski Resort?
— How Much does it Cost to Ski at Moiwa?
— Ski Areas and Facilities at Moiwa
— Night Skiing at Moiwa
— Moiwa Welcomes Snowboarders in 2025
— What is the History of Moiwa Ski Resort?
— Who Operates Moiwa Ski Resort?
— Other Snow-Related Attractions in Sapporo

More details below.

Overview of Moiwa Ski Resort

Resort Name: Moiwa Ski Resort (藻岩山スキー場 / もいわ山スキー場)
Usual Season: Mid-December to late March (weather dependent)
Location: Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Ski Areas: Single ski area with multiple groomed slopes
Website: sapporo-moiwa.jp

Sapporo Moiwa Ski Resort is a compact, yet high-quality ski and snowboard destination on the lower slopes of Mount Moiwa, located just a short distance from central Sapporo. In Japanese the resort is called Moiwayama Ski Area (or Moiwayama Ski-jo, 藻岩山スキー場), and is sometimes called Sapporo Moiwa Snow Square. The resort is sometimes confused with Niseko Moiwa (which is an entirely a different resort).

Moiwayama Ski Resort is known for its excellent Hokkaido snow, uncrowded slopes, night skiing, and panoramic city views. Moiwa is popular with both locals and visitors seeking a relaxed and scenic skiing experience close to the city.

While historically a “skiers only” resort, in the 2025/2026 season, Moiwa began to allow snowboarders to enjoy the resort for the first time.

Moiwa is a Scenic Ski Resort Close to Central Sapporo

Moiwa Ski Resort in Minami-ku offers one of the best combinations of convenience and scenery among Sapporo’s ski areas. Travel time from central Sapporo is typically around 30 minutes, making it an easy option for day trips or evening skiing.

The resort’s location provides sweeping views of Sapporo City, especially during night skiing, when the city lights create a dramatic backdrop.

Where is Moiwa Ski Resort Located?

Moiwa Ski Resort is located in Minami Ward (Minami-ku), in southwestern Sapporo. The resort sits on the slopes of Mount Moiwa, an area known for its forests, hiking trails, and observation points.

Although surrounded by nature, Moiwa remains part of Sapporo City and is easily accessible from downtown. From local homes in Minami-ku, the resort can be reached in as little as only 10 – 15 minutes by car.

How do we get to Moiwa Ski Resort?

There are several convenient ways to reach Moiwa Ski Resort:

By Bus:

Moiwa operates a bus shuttle service. The shuttle bus runs daily between Makomanai Station (on the Namboku Subway Line) and the northern slope of the ski resort. The cost to ride Moiwa’s shuttle bus is 1,000 JPY (one way).

By Car:

From central Sapporo, Moiwa Ski Resort can be reached in approximately 30 minutes by car. Free parking is available at the resort.

Public transportation is recommended for visitors unfamiliar with winter driving conditions.

How Much does it Cost to Ski at Moiwa?

Lift ticket prices vary by season and ticket type, but typical prices include:

Adult 1-Day Lift Pass: approximately 6,000–7,500 JPY
Night Skiing Pass: approximately 2,200–3,000 JPY
Children & Student Tickets: 3,200–5,000 JPY

Moiwa also offers ski and snowboard rentals, lessons, and beginner-friendly packages.

Ski Areas and Facilities at Moiwa

Moiwa Ski Resort features a single ski area with a strong focus on quality grooming and natural snow conditions.

Intermediate-level slopes are a highlight
Beginner runs are available near the base area
Terrain is well-maintained and less crowded than larger resorts
Facilities include rental shops, ski schools, rest areas, and a café-style dining space

Night Skiing at Moiwa

Moiwa Ski Resort is especially well known for its night skiing, offering illuminated runs with stunning views of Sapporo City below. The calm atmosphere and clear visibility make night skiing at Moiwa a favorite among experienced skiers and snowboarders.

Night skiing hours vary by day and weather conditions.

Moiwa Welcomes Snowboarders in 2025

Sapporo’s Moiwa Ski Resort used to be “skiers only.” In October of 2025, Moiwa announced that the resort was open to snowboarders as well.

What is the History of Moiwa Ski Resort?

Sapporo Moiwayama Ski Resort opened in 1960, and has long been part of Sapporo’s winter sports culture. For years, it was known as a ski-only ski area; snowboarders were not permitted to ride at Moiwa until 2025. The resort continues to serve as a favorite local ski area for those who prioritize atmosphere and terrain quality.

Who Operates Moiwa Ski Resort?

Mt Moiwa Ski Resort (also branded as Sapporo Moiwa Snow Square Ski & Snowboard) is operated by Hokkaido Square Co., Ltd., in partnership with Rinyu Kanko Co., Ltd. under an agreement with the city of Sapporo. Hokkaido Square Co., Ltd. is responsible for resort management, lift operations, slope maintenance, safety, and guest services at the ski area. The company is based in Sapporo, and focuses on creating a high-quality skiing experience while enhancing the natural and urban integration that makes Moiwayama Ski Area unique.

Other Snow-Related Attractions in Sapporo

In addition to Moiwa Ski Resort, visitors can explore Sapporo Teine Ski Resort (known for its Olympic history and expansive terrain), and Bankei Ski Resort (a convenient option for beginners, snowboarders, and for night skiing).

Winter visitors may also enjoy Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium, and the world-famous Sapporo Snow Festival, held every February.

For more winter activities and ski destinations, be sure to check out our guide to local ski resorts in Sapporo.

Sapporo Moiwa Ski Resort in Sapporo, Japan

Sapporo Moiwa Ski Area

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