Tomamu, Hokkaido
Tomamu Resort is an extensive development which is a testament to Japan’s 1980s building mania. A few ownership changes over the past couple of decades has led to an amenity rich resort. 60 kilometers east of Shin-Chitose Airport, Tomamu is cold with consistent but moderate levels of snow. Four soaring towers are the landmark images of the resort, but it also hosts a Club Med resort and a massive indoor swimming pool with an artificial wave engine.
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Snow
Quality: The colder weather which coats Tomamu’s winter season delivers crisp, dry powder. To experience powder without drowning in it (although the off-piste back bowls can offer that opportunity), it is a good place to visit.
Quantity: Tomamu is inland and thus does not benefit from newly laden storms but instead receives a lesser amount of very dry snow. At about half the annual average of Niseko, Tomamu operates on a consistent base with occasional ankle deep dustings.
Ski Schools
The resort runs full service ski schools under both Hoshino Resorts management and Club Med.
Rental / Retail
There are basic ski shops at the resort which can cover most equipment needs. Selection is limited.
Dining
General Dining: There are a number of restaurants with both Japanese and international selections on the resort grounds. Outside of the resort there is no real town to explore.
Fine Dining: There are no destination dining options at Tomamu.
Lodging Options
Lodging options are limited to the two twin tower set-ups managed by one of Japan’s leading hospitality operators, Hoshino Resorts, or the pay-one-price Club Med. Club Med is perhaps a favorable choice if traveling with children for the convenience of its service and its location adjacent to the massive indoor pool complex.
Air Access
Tomamu is most closely accessible from Shin-Chitose Airport. The resort can be accessed either by a convenient door-to-door bus (about 90 minutes) or an express train (an hour following train boarding).
Cultural Experience
Within the resort, various cultural activities are arranged regularly by the resort operator. Both Hoshino Resorts and Club Med follow a philosophy of accessing local culture to entertain and enrich the guest experience.
Family / Kids
Tomamu is a terrific resort to visit with children. The pool area is a destination unto itself and roils with activity apres ski and throughout the day. The self contained nature of the resort provides one of the safest environments in winter travel. The ski schools have fully fledged children’s programs and Hoshino Resorts has a babysitting room for toddlers.