Skiing Niseko with Kids: Best family friendly ski resorts in Japan

This is the 2nd episode in the Ski Japan Series and it’s all about the snowiest and fluffiest, ski destination in Japan… Niseko! In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton sits down with long-time Niseko devotee Christie Hampton, who has spent more than 20 winters in Japan’s most famous ski town. If you’re dreaming of that light, dry, ridiculously fluffy Hokkaido powder (that you simply cannot get in Australia), this is your ultimate family guide to skiing Niseko. Plus Christie also shares why the ski resorts in Rusutsu and Furano are also fantastic options. Christie first visited Niseko decades ago, long before it blew up into the global ski phenomenon it is today. Now, she returns every single Japanese winter with her family. Her kids have been skiing that powder since they were two years old, so she is a bona fide expert! Sally and Christie cover: Why Niseko continues to win “Best Ski Resort in Japan” year after year What first-timers need to know about weather, gear, goggles and the cold Whether Niseko is comfortable for babies and toddlers Why booking ski school (and pretty much everything possible) early is essential Where to eat, shop and explore beyond the slopes What makes Furano and Rusutsu worth adding to your itinerary Onsens (yes, we talk about mixed onsens!) and the magic of Japanese snow culture Day trip ideas, terrain advice. Christie gives a refreshingly honest, super helpful breakdown of what makes Niseko special and why so many families return year after year. If you’re tossing up whether to make Japan your next snow holiday… this episode will absolutely seal the deal. Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to Niseko: A Family Ski Paradise 03:01 The Allure of Niseko's Powder Snow 06:01 Skiing in Hokkaido: Comparing Resorts 10:37 Christie's Journey: From Visitor to Local 11:44 Exploring Other Hokkaido Resorts 15:33 Why Niseko is the Best Ski Area in Japan 22:01 The Changing Face of Niseko 25:19 Budget-Friendly Tips for Families 26:05 Getting Around Niseko: Transportation Tips 27:57 Activities for Non-Skiers: Food and Onsens 30:52 Exploring Onsen Culture in Japan 32:45 Family-Friendly Activities in Niseko 34:59 Day Trips and Local Attractions 37:44 Ski School Insights for Kids 42:02 Winter Weather and Clothing Essentials 48:04 Packing Tips for a Niseko Trip 49:42 Shopping and Supermarket Experiences 52:10 Quickfire Questions about Niseko   Topics  we mentioned Furano Ski Resort Rusutsu Rhythm Japan Niseko United Grand Hotel Onsen Rhythm Rides Moiwa Lodge Ren Izakaya Gyu Bar   Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook  @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: [email protected]  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow travel loving friend! AND... Don't forget your snacks or your skis!