A practical Hokkaido ski packing list based on multiple trips to Niseko and Rusutsu. What to bring, what to rent, and what’s easy to overlook when skiing in Japan.
Skiing in Asia
Japan, Korea & India Ski Travel GuidesThis page brings together my ski trips across Asia, including Hokkaido in Japan, ski resorts in South Korea, and Gulmarg in Kashmir.
I live and ski in South Korea, and each winter I try to take one larger trip elsewhere in Asia. That’s taken me to Japan multiple times and most recently to Gulmarg. These posts reflect what I experienced on the mountain, along with the logistics of getting there and planning each trip.
🇯🇵 Skiing in Japan
I’ve taken multiple ski trips to Hokkaido, focusing on Niseko and Rusutsu. These posts cover how I planned each trip, what I found on the mountain, and how the resorts compare.
How to Get From CTS to Niseko and Rusutsu: My Hokkaido Ski Transport Guide
Figuring out transportation in Hokkaido is one of the biggest hurdles for a ski trip to Niseko or Rusutsu. I’ve done it both on a tight budget and with a rental car, and this guide walks through the options so you can choose what makes the most sense for your trip.
Hokkaido Ski Tips 2025: How to Make the Most of Your Japow Trip: Niseko, Rusutsu & Beyond
A firsthand look at what it really costs to ski Niseko and Rusutsu based on personal experience in 2025, plus practical tips on gear rentals, lodging, transportation, and more to help you plan smarter and chase Japow without blowing your budget.
The Perfect 5–7 Day Hokkaido Ski Itinerary (2025 Guide)
A flexible 5–7 day ski itinerary for Hokkaido, based on real experience in Niseko and Rusutsu. Includes tips on rental gear, lift passes, where to stay, how to plan around the weather, and what to expect on and off the mountain in 2025.
Niseko vs Rusutsu: How Hokkaido’s Two Top Ski Resorts Compare for the 2025–26 Season
Japow’s alive and well in 2025.
But should you ski Niseko or Rusutsu? I hit both on the same trip, and here’s how the snow, crowds, and vibe really stacked up.
🇮🇳 Skiing in India (Gulmarg)
Gulmarg was a trip I spent a year planning, including writing through the decision before going. I ended up spending a week there skiing lift-access terrain with guides and adding a heli day while I was there.
These posts cover how I approached the trip, what I ran into on the ground, and how I’d think about it now after going.
Do You Need a Guide to Ski Gulmarg?
Do you need a guide to ski Gulmarg? After a week skiing Phase 2 terrain in Kashmir, here’s my honest take on guides, costs, and navigating the mountain.
Why I’m Skiing in Gulmarg, Kashmir in 2026 (Despite the Risks)
After the 2025 attack in Kashmir, most people assumed I canceled my ski trip. I didn’t. I wrote this to share why I’m still going, how I’m preparing, and what the journey means to me.
Beyond Japow: My Search for the Next Great Ski Destination in Asia
Japow still delivers, but the crowds pushed me to look beyond Japan for my 2026 ski trip. I dug into places like Jyrgalan, Shymbulak, and China’s far west before circling back to Gulmarg in Kashmir. This post walks through the full search and how I landed on my final choice.
🇰🇷 Skiing in South Korea
I live and ski in South Korea, with regular trips to resorts like Yongpyong, High 1, and others. These posts cover how each mountain skis and how to plan a trip within Korea.
Welli Hilli Park Resort Ski Guide: Quietly Excellent Advanced Skiing in South Korea
A first-hand look at skiing Welli Hilli, a lesser-known ski resort in South Korea with steep upper terrain, manageable crowds, and easy access.
High 1 vs Yongpyong Resort, Which Is Better for Skiing in South Korea?
A practical comparison of High 1 and Yongpyong Resort based on access, terrain, lodging, and how each ski trip actually feels. Written from years of skiing both.
Muju Deogyusan Resort: Skiing in Southern Korea’s Scenic National Park
Muju Deogyusan Resort offers a scenic, laid-back ski experience in South Korea’s Jeollabuk-do province. Located farther south than the major Gangwon-do resorts, it’s a great option for skiers based in Daegu, Daejeon, or Busan. This local guide covers terrain tips, lift tickets, rentals, lodging, and why Muju is worth a visit, even with its quirks.
Yongpyong Resort Guide: Expert Terrain, Lift Tickets, Rentals and Travel Tips
Yongpyong Resort is my top pick for skiing in South Korea.
After 15+ seasons on these slopes, I’m sharing tips on terrain, lift tickets, lodging, rentals, and how to make the most of your trip.
High1 Resort in South Korea: Why I Keep Coming Back to This Mountain
Planning a ski trip in South Korea? High1 Resort is a top destination for skiing and snowboarding, with a variety of trails, lift ticket options, gear rentals, and lessons.
This guide covers everything from accommodations and dining to dog-friendly stays at the ‘Pet Club’ Hill Condo.
Get insider tips to make the most of your trip!