Gondola Chalets - Winter Events

During the winter months Hokkaido plays host to some fantastic cultural and sporting events

The local area of Niseko is the chosen location for many local ski and snowboard events and other off mountain activities. These are a great opportunity to add some Japanese culture to your Niseko holiday.


Sapporo Snow Festival

The Sapporo Snow Festival, one of Japan's largest winter events, attracts a growing number of visitors from Japan and abroad every year.

Every winter, about two million people come to Sapporo to see the hundreds of beautiful snow statues and ice sculptures which line Odori Park, the grounds at Satoland, and the main street in Susukino.

For seven days in February, these statues and sculptures (both large and small) turn Sapporo into a winter dreamland of crystal-like ice and white snow.

In 2009 the Sapporo Snow Festival is scheduled for February 5th to 11th.


Toyota Big Air

The Toyota Big Air is one of the world’s biggest snowboard jump contests. Attracting the top snowboard professionals from all around the world, this event draws major sponsors such as Toyota and Quiksilver. This event also gives a chance for Japanese riders who qualify to make their mark on the world stage.

Toyota Big Air is held in Makomanai Sekisuiheim Stadium in Sapporo, an open air stadium highlighted by a fantastic fireworks display. But be warned, make sure you take plenty of warm clothing as there is no undercover seating.