Taiwan has a large skiing population; trips to Hokkaido, Japan, have increased by nearly 30%

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

In recent years, Taiwan’s skiing population has grown significantly, with destinations like Hokkaido, Japan, seeing an increase of nearly 30% in recent years. Riding the wave of ski tourism, a group of top tourism business owners from southern Taiwan visited a ski resort in Hokkaido in March this year to try skiing for the first time in their lives, while also experiencing classic Hokkaido ski slopes.


▲ A group of top tourism business owners from southern Taiwan visited a ski resort in Hokkaido in March this year to try skiing for the first time in their lives.

In recent years, ski-themed travel has gradually become a trend in Taiwan, not only popular among young people but also enjoying a high rate of traveler return. The snow quality in Hokkaido, Japan, is known as powder snow—beautiful and ideal for skiing, making it a favorite among many skiing enthusiasts. As a result, Hokkaido, Japan, which is geographically close to Taiwan, has become the best destination for ski-themed travel.

Most members of the southern Taiwan tourism group were over 50 years old, but after learning and practicing, they were able to easily enjoy the fun of skiing. After the “Hoshino Resorts Tomamu Resort” in Hokkaido entered the Taiwanese market, it helped spark what was once a niche ski-themed travel trend. Mr. Tang Guizhen, Chairman of Rolisa Tour, the general agent of Hoshino Resorts Tomamu in Hokkaido, said: “Skiing trips to Japan are very attractive to young people in Taiwan. Skiing is inherently a fun sport, so the return rate is high—almost everyone gets hooked after just one trip.”

%Jiā huī yú běi hǎi dǎo de “běi jí TOMAMU dù jià cūn”.

In addition to the ski slopes, Hoshino Resorts Tomamu also features an ice-built “Ice Village (IceVillage).” Every winter, a small town made of ice igloos is created, complete with a chapel, shops, hotels, restaurants, and other facilities, including an ice-skating rink at the center of the town. When illuminated at night, it becomes a colorful and uniquely northern experience.

Skiing is not only thrilling, but you’ll immediately want to hit the slopes again afterward. Some call this addiction “ski fever,” which lasts a lifetime and can never be cured. All you can do is look forward to winter arriving quickly each year, so you can pull your skis out of the closet and head straight for the slopes. Although Taiwan doesn’t have its own ski resorts, Japan offers a well-developed skiing environment that is highly favored by Taiwanese travelers—not only is it safe and convenient for shopping, but its rich historical heritage and cultural arts also make the trip itself a lot of fun.