Craving cold weather and want to hit the slopes? We found stunning ski resorts nearby.
As much as we love skiing and busting out the winter wear, nobody’s got time to travel for over 20 hours just to hit the slopes. If a winter vacay – sans the torturous travel time – sounds like your idea of the perfect getaway, we found spectacular ski resorts that aren’t too far from Singapore. Here are the deets…
Best ski resorts near Singapore: New Zealand
Count on New Zealand to satisfy your mid-year winter wanderlust. With majestic ice-capped mountains, crisp air and iconic glaciers, winter in New Zealand is nothing short of magical. Winter season runs from June to August with temperatures fluctuating from 1°C to 15°C.
The North Island may have notable ski areas since it’s home to New Zealand’s only skiable volcano (Mt Ruapehu), but our heart belongs to the South Island. Don’t just take our word for it though – the island boasts the most ski resorts. There’s also a range of non-ski activities like wine tasting and other outdoor adventures. For an out-of-the-world experience, a helicopter ride to Milford Sound with a glacier landing, followed by lunch atop the glacier, is a definite must.
1. The Remarkables in Queenstown
A little off-the-beaten-track, The Remarkables’ high alpine location and 1,050 hectares of skiable terrain parks are perfect for an alternative skiing spot. (Especially if you’ve conquered places like Coronet Peak). The seven various parks are well catered to all levels with fresh batches of snow to cut into the powder. Of course, we can’t forget the stunning views to and from the resort that are simply remarkable.
Tip: The Remarkables has great off-piste runs when it snows – though you don’t end back in the resort so you need to plan ahead. There are also freestyle and telemarking lessons to challenge yourself further.
How to get there: Fly direct to Queenstown with airlines including Air New Zealand and Singapore Airlines, followed by a 45-minute drive from central Queenstown. Unlike other cities, you stay down in Queenstown and drive up to the resorts each day. You can also take a bus up from the Snow Centre on Duke St in Central Queenstown.
Ski season: June to October
The Remarkables Ski Area, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
2. Treble Cone and Cardrona in Wanaka
Known as the largest ski and snowboard resort in South Island, Treble Cone is perfect for all types of skiers. Experienced skiers will love the long groomed trails, off-piste terrain and backcountry areas with stunning views over Lake Wanaka. Cardrona also has the terrain to suit all abilities and is great for beginners and families. Wanna do it freestyle? Cardona has two halfpipes – including New Zealand’s only Olympic 22 ft. “Superpipe” – a gravity-X course and a big air jump.
Tip: For morning run enthusiasts, Lake Wanaka is surrounded by running trails and postcard-perfect views to take in. Alternatively, you can drive up to Roys Peak for similar views.
How to get there: Fly direct to Queenstown with airlines including Air New Zealand and Singapore Airlines, plus an hour’s drive to Wanaka. Make a stop at Cardrona Distillery to pace the beautiful drive through the Crown Range.
Ski season: June to October
Treble Cone, Mount Aspiring Road, Wanaka 9305, New Zealand; Cardrona, Cardrona Valley Road, Wanaka, New Zealand
Best ski resorts near Singapore: Japan
Hot onsen spring baths, unobstructed views of Mount Fiji, snow monkeys, winter festivals and quiet streets – if this doesn’t entice you to experience winter in Japan, we don’t know what will. Winter season runs from December to March but it also depends on where you’re headed.
Mountainous regions and northern parts see the longest winters and high levels of snowfall. With 500 ski resorts around the country, it’s a no-brainer that Japan holds the numero uno ski destination in Asia. Stay a night in Sapporo so you can drop by the famous Sapporo Beer Factory before making your way to Niseko. Also, the Sapporo Snow Festival in February can’t be missed!
3. Niseko in Hokkaido
The snow in Japan’s ski capital is as soft as powder, and it’s the perfect place to kick off your skiing adventure if you’ve never hit the slopes before. The ski resorts are located at Mount Niseko Annupuri, a mountain with a peak elevation of 1308 metres, stellar terrains and runs for beginners to extreme skiers. Bringing the kids? There are lots of ski schools and activities including sledging, snow tubing and snow rafting.
Tip: FYI, Niseko Village is a small resort within Niseko, but it’s not the main part of town – Hirafu is the buzzing centre of Niseko. Reservations at restaurants are made way in advance in Hirafu so book them stat to secure a table. Explore incredible onsens outside the resort for an unforgettable experience. Finally, hire a photographer for the day and capture some stunning powder shots for the ‘gram.
How to get there: You’ve got many direct flight options to Sapporo Chitose Airport. There are also plenty of bus companies that will take you to the slopes in about two hours.
Ski season: Early December to early April
Niseko, 170-304 Yamada, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0081, Japan
4. Club Med Tomamu
Strap on for a snow-kissed paradise on Tomamu Mountain at Club Med. Sprawled across over 145 hectares of Tomamu Mountain, the powdery slopes are perfect for a thrilling snow adventure. This isn’t just a winter escape – it’s a culinary journey too. Indulge in fresh seafood, wagyu wonders, and locally brewed spirits. From conquering slopes and trekking through powdery perfection to catching waves at Japan’s biggest indoor pool nearby, Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido is a great ski resort to embrace the thrill and fun.
How to get there: There are many direct flight options to New Chitose International Airport and Tokachi-Obihiro Airport. Following that, take a 1.5-hour to two-hour transfer from the airport.
Ski season: Mid-November to late-March
Club Med Tomamu, 2171-2 Nakatomamu, Shimukappu, Yufutsu District, Hokkaido 079-2204, Japan
5. Hakuba Ski Resort in Nagano Prefecture
The Hakuba Valley consists of 11 resorts (though they’re not interconnected) and the must-visit spots are Happo One, Goryu, Hakuba 47 as well as Cortina for those looking for off-piste areas. With over ten resorts, it’s no surprise that there are various terrains for all.
The long, perfectly-groomed runs and fantastic fall-lines are great for beginners and intermediates alike. Skiing aside, Hakuba has a great mix of non-skiing activities for a full-on cultural experience. The villages here even have a more authentic feel to them than the Niseko Villages (yup, we just said that). Some accommodations even offer Westernised Japanese futons on tatami mats.
Tip: It’s best to rent a car in Hakuba to get around all the resorts. Stop over at Nagano (where the 1998 Winter Olympics was hosted) and go for a sake tasting or visit Zenko-ji and Matsushiro Castle. At Jigokudani, you can also catch snow monkeys bathing in natural onsens. Cute! They’re all close by so you don’t have to travel too far.
How to get there: Fly direct to Tokyo with airlines including Japan Airlines, Singapore Airlines and Scoot. Transfer to Tokyo Station and take the Shinkansen bullet train to Nagano. Opt for a three-and-a-half to four-hour private transfer or bus to Hakuba.
Ski season: December to April
Hakuba Ski Resort, 170-304 Yamada, Kutchan, Hokkaido, 044-0081 Japan
Best ski resorts near Singapore: South Korea
Winter season is one of the best times to visit Korea when postcard-perfect Hanoks (traditional Korean houses) are sprinkled with powdery snow and villages turn into winter playgrounds. Winter season lasts from late November to early March, when things get really chilly (-18°C) in the most northern provence.
6. Monapark Yong Pyong Ski Resort
Located on Mount Balwangsan, Monapark Yong Pyong is the largest ski and snowboarding resort in Korea. Perched 700 metres above sea level at the eastern edge of Asia, the ski resort boasts 28 slopes and 14 cable lists. This hotspot gets an annual snowfall of 250cm, turning the surroundings into a snowy dreamland for winter sports enthusiasts. Spread across 4,300 acres, there’s plenty to do thanks to the 45-hole golf course, premium hotels, European-style condos, and a ton of family-friendly leisure facilities.
How to get there: There are many direct flight options to Incheon International Airport. Next, take a two-and-a-half car ride or a four-hour shuttle bus.
Ski season: Mid-November to Late March
Monapark Yong Pyong Ski Resort, 715 Olympic-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do, 25352 Korea
7. Yongpyong Ski Resort in Ganwondo
Nicknamed the alps and ski mecca of Korea, Yongpyong Ski Resort in Ganwondo is the largest ski resort with a range of 700 metres above sea level. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or an expert ‘cos with 28 slopes, there are plenty of snowy runs to work on your skiing skills.
How to get there: Fly direct to Seoul with airlines including Korean Air and Singapore Airlines, then take a 250km shuttle bus transfer to Yongpyong.
Ski season: Mid-November to early April
Yongpyong Ski Resort, 130 Daegwalnyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea
Oh, and if you’re new to ski season, fret not. We had a chat with Nickie Mabey, a ski instructor and the founder of Mabey Ski, who dished out some insider tips. Beginners, listen up…
Do your research before you depart
Choose the right ski instructor who will not only teach you how to stop and turn but also show you the best way to hold your skis. Pick an accommodation that’s not too far from the lifts, but also offers nearby restaurants and home comforts such as log fires and hot tubs to loosen any tired muscles at the end of the day. Book your ski or snowboard hire with a reputable company that will ensure you’re fitted properly and comfortably.
Pack the right clothes
Base layers are key to keeping warm in the snow. Look out for merino or acrylic layers, and make sure to avoid cotton, as it gets damp from perspiration and makes you cold. The mid-layer is ideally a fleece or woollen jumper which will regulate your body temperature. Your outer layer should be waterproof and windproof – Gore-Tex is the best material for snowsports – to keep out any fresh snow. Alternatively, some ski rental companies offer rental gear too.
Let a professional show you the ropes
No matter how many YouTube videos you’ve watched online or how good your friends reckon they are, you won’t realise how much there is to think about until you set your skis down on slippery snow for the first time. It’s important to take lessons from a professional instructor who will take you on an appropriate terrain and get you up to speed in no time. Book private lessons to get the most out of the experience.
Get in shape before your trip
You don’t need to be an Olympian to hit the slopes but the fitter you are, the faster you’ll learn. Naturally, a lot of first-timers will lean back – leaning towards the bottom of the mountain as you head downhill means that your legs will burn. Get some leg exercises in before your trip to really work those quads.
Enjoy the experience and don’t give up!
It’s very easy to get caught up in the falls and wonder whether you’re actually making any progress on your first ski holiday. Ultimately, if you’re not falling you’re not learning, so try not to be so hard on yourself. The first week is definitely the toughest, so give yourself some time off the slopes too.
Whether you’re a seasoned snow enthusiast or a beginner ready to carve your first tracks, these ski resorts are your ticket to a hassle-free and unforgettable ski adventure.
