Club Med Kiroro Peak Review

If you’re tossing up the idea of a ski holiday in Hokkaido, this Club Med Kiroro Peak review might help tip the scales. I wasn’t too sure what to expect before the trip. Maybe something typical, maybe something a little more polished than usual. But after a few days of crisp mountain air, surprisingly great food, and more than a few little wow moments, I can say it really stuck with me. It’s probably one of my most memorable ski getaways so far.

Let’s get something out of the way first. Club Med Kiroro Peak isn’t your classic ski-in, ski-out setup. And if that’s a dealbreaker, fair enough. But in its own way, it kind of makes up for it. Opened in December 2022 after a major transformation of the old Sheraton Hokkaido Kiroro Resort, it now operates as an adults-only escape (well, 12 and above) for people who appreciate a more peaceful kind of Club Med experience. The skiing’s excellent, the onsen is even better, and the vibe is a lot calmer than most Club Meds.

It’s also located right next to its sibling, Club Med Kiroro Grand, which opened about a year later in December 2023. They’re technically separate properties, but closely connected.

We spent three nights at Kiroro Peak. This Club Med Kiroro Peak review is based entirely on that stay. Nothing sponsored, nothing sugar-coated. Just what we saw, felt, ate, and honestly thought.

Club Med Kiroro Peak Location

Let’s start with where it is. Club Med Kiroro Peak is tucked away in the western part of Hokkaido, Japan, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the Asari-dake and Nagamine-dake mountains. The landscape is rugged, snow-covered, and almost untouched. You won’t find big crowds here. It feels a bit like a secret, especially compared to the more touristy ski spots.

Kiroro has a reputation, especially among skiers and snowboarders who know their stuff. The powder here is next-level. We’re talking about some of the highest snowfall in the world, over 20 metres a year. And it’s not just quantity. The snow is light, dry, and ridiculously soft. If you’re into powder runs, you’ll know what that means. You carve once and it’s like you’re floating.

The season starts early too, usually in late November, and stretches all the way to early May. That’s a long window for snow lovers to soak up the slopes in peace. Honestly, once you’ve skied here, it’s hard to go back to resorts with icy, compacted runs.

Getting to Club Med Kiroro Peak

For our trip, we flew Malaysia Airlines from Kuala Lumpur to Tokyo Narita. Pretty smooth flight overall. After that, we caught a Jetstar Japan flight (it codeshares with Japan Airlines) to Chitose. On the way back, I switched it up a little and flew with Japan Airlines, again from Chitose with a layover in Tokyo, then straight on to Kuala Lumpur. It wasn’t the fastest route out there, but it worked well for us, and I was just happy everything ran on time.

Malaysia Airlines Review

We flew Malaysia Airlines from Kuala Lumpur to Tokyo Narita on their Airbus A350. It’s a 3-3-3 configuration in economy, which honestly felt pretty decent for a 7-hour flight. The seats were comfortable enough. Nothing fancy, but I had enough legroom to not feel cramped. That alone already makes a difference on long hauls. Service was polite, as you’d expect, and everything ran on schedule. Can’t really complain. I wouldn’t call it luxurious, but it got us there comfortably and without fuss.

Our flight landed at Terminal 1 in Tokyo Narita. Since it’s our first point of entry into Japan, we had to clear immigration and customs before catching our next flight. At the time of writing, Japan still requires all visitors to complete quarantine, immigration, and customs procedures online through the Visit Japan Website. It’s not difficult, but it’s something you’ll want to sort out before you fly, just to save time and avoid stress.

We had a 2.5-hour layover at Narita, which turned out to be just enough. After going through all the arrival formalities, we made our way over to Terminal 3. It’s about a 15 to 20-minute walk, nothing too intense, but if you’re travelling with kids or elderly family members, it’s worth factoring in the time. All in all, everything went smoothly.

Jetstar Japan Review

Jetstar Japan flights operate from Terminal 3 at Tokyo Narita. Check-in is fully automated, which was a new experience for us. You’ll use a self-service machine to check in, print out your baggage tag, and then tag your luggage yourself before dropping it off. Sounds simple enough, but we weren’t too sure where exactly to place the tag and apparently, there’s a “correct” position the scanner is expecting. One of our bags didn’t scan properly, so we ended up having to reprint the tag and reattach it. Not a huge deal, but it slowed us down a little.

The flight from Tokyo Narita to Chitose was on an Airbus A320, pretty standard for low-cost, short-haul routes. The journey took about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Now, Jetstar Japan being a budget airlines does not include meals or drinks. But since we booked the flight under a Japan Airlines codeshare as part of our international itinerary, we were given a JPY300 credit per person to use on board. It’s not a huge amount, but it was enough for a small treat. We picked up a Wilkinson Black Whisky, a smooth and tasty Nikka Whiskey. One of the crew asked if we really wanted it opened, since it was only 10am. I guess they were trying to be polite, or maybe they were just a bit surprised we were already reaching for the alcohol that early in the day. Either way, it made for a fun little moment.

Arrival at Chitose Airport

We landed at the domestic terminal of New Chitose Airport around 11:30am. After collecting our bags, we made our way to the arrival hall specifically Door 5 on the South side. From there, it was a simple right turn and a short walk straight ahead to find the Club Med counter. The staff were already there, and after checking us in, they told us to return by 1:30pm to the designated transport waiting area for our transfer to Club Med Kiroro.

Killing Time at Chitose Airport

With some time to spare before the transfer, so we decided to explore Chitose airport. We headed upstairs to the combined departure and shopping area, which turned out to be surprisingly well-equipped. We spotted a small Uniqlo and even managed to snag a warm vest that was completely sold out back in Malaysia.

Then came lunch. We found ourselves at the food court on the third floor and went straight for the miso ramen, fragrant, comforting, and just what we needed in the chilly weather. It cost JPY850 and honestly, not bad at all for an airport meal. Bonus: there was a free water dispenser in the food court, so we skipped buying drinks too.

Transfer from New Chitose Airport to Club Med Kiroro Peak

Once lunch was done, we headed back to the waiting area right on time. The staff at the Club Med transfer desk was already there and quickly gathered us together. They led us outside, and sure enough, our van was ready and waiting. The team helped load our luggage, and just like that, we were off on the two-hour ride to Club Med Kiroro.

The journey itself felt like something out of a snow globe. Everything from trees, rooftops, open fields was blanketed in fresh, powdery snow. There was this calm, quiet beauty to it all. We found ourselves just staring out the window, a bit in awe. It’s one of those drives where you barely talk because the scenery does all the talking for you. Peaceful, still, and honestly kind of magical.

About halfway through, we pulled into a small rest stop to stretch our legs and use the bathroom. It wasn’t a long break, just enough time to move around a bit and warm up with some hot drinks. We also picked up a few snacks, mostly out of curiosity. It was a nice little pause before continuing the rest of the journey through that wintry wonderland.

Welcome Home to Club Med Kiroro Peak

As soon as we arrived at Club Med Kiroro Peak, we were greeted with a warm smile from James at the reception. He didn’t waste time. He quickly shared his WhatsApp number so we could reach him anytime if we needed help with anything. He gave us a walkthrough of the essentials like the room key and ski pass, then took us on a short tour of the resort’s main facilities before showing us to our room.

Club Med Kiroro Peak All Inclusive Package

When you book a stay at Club Med Kiroro Peak, almost everything is taken care of. Here’s what’s included in the package:

• Comfortable accommodation
• Four daily international buffet meals – breakfast, lunch, late lunch, and dinner
• All-day snacks
• Premium open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
• Ski and snowboard group lessons for all levels
• Unlimited access to ski lifts
• Leisure activities
• Nightly entertainment
• Free Wi-Fi throughout the resort

With all these covered, you can really relax and enjoy your holiday without worrying about the little things.

Club Med Kiroro Peak Dining

The Kaen – Yakiniku Specialty Restaurant at Club Med Kiroro Grand

We kicked off our first dinner at The Kaen, a Yakiniku specialty restaurant located over at Club Med Kiroro Grand, just a quick 3-minute drive from our resort. Even with a heavy snowstorm that evening, the cosy warmth inside and the sizzling meats made it worth the effort.

Just a heads-up, The Kaen isn’t part of the all-inclusive package, so it’s a paid dining experience. Still, if you enjoy grilled meats, it’s definitely one to try.

A pleasant surprise that night was bumping into Dina, the restaurant manager. I actually knew her from before, back when she was the Bar Manager at Club Med Cherating. She recognised us right away, gave us a warm welcome, and made sure we were comfortably seated at a quiet corner table. Little moments like that just make the experience feel extra personal.

The Otaru – Main Restaurant at Club Med Kiroro Peak

The only restaurant at Club Med Kiroro Peak is The Otaru, and it’s a good one. It’s split into two themed sections: Western and Asian. The Western zone opens for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Asian side opens for lunch and dinner only.

Breakfast here is a proper treat. There’s something for everyone. Sashimi, udon, overnight oats, omelets, bacon, sausages, mini hash browns, waffles, and those fluffy little pancakes that disappear way too quickly from your plate.

For lunch and dinner, you’re spoilt for choice. They mix things up daily. Expect a wide range of dishes. Fried rice, noodles, and sushi on one end. Pasta and pizza on the other. Even grilled fish or steak if you’re after something a bit more Western. Some days, there’s tonkatsu or snow crab. Other days, you might find ramen and even more sushi. There’s always something interesting. You won’t get bored of the food here, that’s for sure.

Oh, and don’t skip dessert. The soft-serve ice cream, especially the vanilla and lavender flavours, is a small but sweet highlight at every meal.

Club Med Kiroro Peak Bar – The View

The View bar at Club Med Kiroro Peak is where most people end up after a day out in the snow. It’s warm, it’s inviting, and those mountain views through the floor-to-ceiling windows? Pretty spectacular.

On the menu, there are two signature cocktails worth trying. The first is the Otaru Cruise — a light and fruity mix of vodka, soju, strawberry syrup, and cranberry juice. It’s refreshing, a bit sweet, and honestly very easy to sip on while you’re defrosting from the slopes.

Then there’s the Cape Kamui. This one’s a little more complex. It blends sake, peach syrup, green tea, and lemon juice. That slight tartness from the lemon cuts through the sweetness beautifully. If you’re into cocktails that feel a bit more layered, this one’s for you.

Besides those, the bar serves up Sapporo Classic, Yebisu Black, and a whole range of drinks — coffee, tea, soft drinks, juices, iced beverages, cocktails, milkshakes, house wines, and spirits. It’s all part of the Club Med package, so you don’t need to worry about racking up a bill.

List of Drinks Included in the Club Med Kioro Peak Package

• Hot Beverage – Espresso, Cappuccino, Americano, Latte, Mocha, Hot Chocolate
• Tea – Honey Citrus, Honey English Breakfast, Earl Grey, Darjeeling, Green Tea, Oolong Tea, Chamomile
• Soft Drinks -Coke, Coke Zero, Sprite, Melon Fanta, Ginger Ale, Tonic Water, Soda Water, Aquarius, Calpis
• Juice – Orange, Apply, Grapefruit, Pineapple, Mango, Cranberry, Guava
• Iced Beverage – Iced Americano, Iced Latte, Iced Chocolate, Iced Tea
• Old But Gold – Moscow Mule, Margarita, Pina Colada
• Kiroro Signature – Otaru Cruise, Capa Kamui
• Mocktail – Passionate, Fruit Park Niki, Mango Tango, Ginger Fox
• Milkshake – Vanilla Syrup, Chocolate, Strawberry, Monkey Breakfast (Banana)
• Beer – Sapporo Classic, Yebisu Black
• House Wine – Red, White, Rose, Sparkling
• House Brand Spirit – Vodka, Gin, White Rum, Tequlia, Whisky, Brandy
• Others – Baileys, Amaretto, Kahlua, Malibu, Triple Sec, Cherry Brandy, Peppermint Liqueur, Lychee Liqueur, Apricot Brandy, Melon Liqueur, Aperol, Campari, Ricard, Martini Rosso, Martini Bianco, Martini Extra Dry, Shochu Iichiko, Sake Otokoyama, Port Wine

Club Med Kiroro Peak Rooms

Superior Room at Club Med Kiroro Peak

The Superior rooms at Club Med Kiroro Peak are spacious and incredibly comfortable—definitely above what you’d expect from typical hotel rooms in Japan. Each one comes with a cozy bed, flat-screen TV, mini fridge, tea and coffee-making facilities, and Wi-Fi access. The bathroom has a shower and a bathtub side by side, which is so much more convenient than having to climb into the tub just to take a shower. The bed was so comfortable I knocked out almost instantly, which was a relief after barely sleeping on the flight.

Deluxe Room at Club Med Kiroro Peak

If you’re after more space, the Deluxe rooms are a solid upgrade. They feel more like mini suites, honestly. There are two layouts: the Family Deluxe Room, which is one big open space with the bedroom and living room separated by a TV cabinet, and the Junior Family Deluxe Room, where the bedroom and living area are split by a wall. Both have a sofa in the living space that can be converted into an extra bed—handy for families.

Suites at Club Med Kiroro Peak

Now, if you’re after something extra special, the Suites are where it’s at. You’ll get stunning views of the mountain and surrounding landscapes, plus some nice perks like in-room breakfast, a minibar that gets refilled daily, and access to concierge service. It’s definitely more of a pampered, boutique-style experience.

Club Med Kiroro Peak Activities

Skiing and Snowboarding

Club Med Kiroro Peak is known for its fantastic skiing and snowboarding. With 23 runs that cater to all skill levels, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-timer or pretty experienced. Guests get complimentary ski and snowboard group lessons, plus a ski pass that gives access to all the lifts and gondolas. Just be sure to hang on to the pass and return it at check-out.

To join the group lessons, you’ll need to register between 6 and 7 pm on your first evening at the resort. This makes sure you’re in the right group and ready to hit the slopes the next morning.

If you didn’t bring your own gear, no worries, you can rent it at the Ski Pro Shop between 8:30 am to 12:30 pm and again from 1:30 to 5:00 pm. Ski wear can also be rented from the Boutique next door, though the hours are slightly different. Honestly, if you’re planning to ski for a few days, buying your own outerwear might make more sense cost-wise.

Don’t forget snow goggles. The wind can get pretty intense and the sun feels stronger at altitude. They aren’t available for rent, but you can buy them. We found the shop at the Kiroro Mountain Center next to Club Med had more styles and a wider price range than the boutique.

On our first ski lesson day, we were running late. Luckily, the GO noticed and helped us gear up in record time. Ski boots, by the way, are no joke. Clunky and hard to walk in, and I needed help just getting up the steps to the slope entrance.

Our instructor, Ethan, was fantastic. Only three of us in the group, so we got loads of individual attention. He went through the basics: putting on and removing skis, getting up after a fall, stopping, and how to climb short slopes. I struggled a bit with stopping, but Ethan was super patient and reassuring.

After we got the hang of things, Ethan brought us up the lift to try skiing down. No poles, just learning to control speed. I ended up sitting that part out, just didn’t feel quite ready yet. Maybe next time.

Private Ski Lessons

If you prefer a more personal touch, Club Med offers private ski lessons. You’ll get one-on-one coaching and access to priority lift lanes (like the Gondola, Yoichi No. 1, and Nagamine No. 2). It’s a good option if you want faster progress or just don’t love group settings.

Off-Slope Activities

Not into skiing or just need a break? There are plenty of things to do indoors. You can book a wellness treatment at the spa, work out in the gym, or join fitness classes like Zumba, abs workouts, yoga, or meditation sessions in the theatre.

Ofuro – Onsen and Rotenburo

One of the highlights of Club Med Kiroro Peak is the onsen experience. The Ofuro area includes a sauna, indoor onsen, and an outdoor rotenburo. It’s quiet, relaxing, and reserved for resort guests only, with separate sections for men and women.

Here’s how it works: grab a large and small towel from the rack outside, remove your shoes, and head into the changing room. You’ll need to disrobe fully (it’s the cultural norm), and place your clothes in a basket. Bring the small towel into the shower area with you. Wash thoroughly before entering the onsen. This isn’t just hygiene. It’s a mindful ritual to cleanse the body and spirit, rooted in Buddhist values and Japanese tradition.

Soak in the indoor onsen for 10–15 minutes, then head outside to the rotenburo for another 10–15. After that, take a dip in the cold tub to cool off. Before heading back to change, rinse off again and dry yourself with the small towel, then finish drying in the changing area with the large towel.

The onsen water contains natural minerals like sodium bicarbonate and calcium, which can help with circulation, muscle recovery, and stress relief. Add the peaceful surroundings and you’ve got the perfect combo for a great night’s sleep.

Club Med Kiroro Peak Spa and Wellness

The spa at Club Med Kiroro Peak, called Spa KOTAN, is a quiet escape for anyone needing to recharge. It’s more than just a massage. This place is about feeling better, inside and out. They use high-quality treatment oils that include highly moisturising placenta extract. It might sound a bit unusual, but it’s known for its skin-rejuvenating properties. After a treatment, your skin feels noticeably softer and more hydrated.

Just be aware that spa treatments aren’t part of the all-inclusive Club Med package. You’ll need to book and pay for them separately.

The team at Spa KOTAN really knows what they’re doing. They’re skilled, experienced, and genuinely care about making sure you feel looked after. They take the time to listen, adjust the treatment to suit you, and make the whole experience feel personal and relaxing.

Club Med Kiroro Peak Entertainment

At Club Med Kiroro Peak, the fun doesn’t stop once the sun sets. Every night at 9:15 pm, guests are treated to an exciting evening of entertainment featuring the talented and energetic Club Med GOs.

From vibrant dance performances to circus acts, the nightly shows offer a variety of entertainment for everyone. The GOs put on elaborate costumes and choreographed dance routines that keep guests engaged and entertained throughout the evening.

The Club Med Kiroro Peak team takes immense pride in their nightly entertainment, and it really shows in the high-energy performances they put on. It’s a wonderful way to wind down after a day of adventure.

Club Med Kiroro Peak Meetings and Events

If you’re reading this Club Med Kiroro Peak Review and wondering whether the resort can work for corporate groups or business retreats, the answer is yes. It’s not a huge conference resort, but it does have two meeting rooms that can be combined to seat up to 30 people in a U-shape setup. That’s ideal for workshops, strategy meetings, or team bonding sessions with a change of scenery.

And because everything is taken care of including meals, drinks, activities, and ski passes. It makes group logistics really smooth. If you’re planning a group stay, we can help arrange flights, transfers, and meeting facilities to match your needs.

Club Med Kiroro Peak: Adults Only Resort

One important point we should highlight in this Club Med Kiroro Peak Review is that the resort is for adults and teens aged 12 and above. There’s no kids’ club and no children’s activities, which gives the entire place a much calmer, more laid-back energy.

You’ll notice the rhythm of the day feels more relaxed. Breakfast starts at 7:30am, lunch kicks off at noon, and there’s a late lunch session from 2:15pm. Dinner begins at 7pm, followed by live shows at 9:15pm, and snacks served until 11. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or solo travellers who want a peaceful holiday without the usual family buzz in the background.

Mountain Center at Kiroro Snow World

No proper Club Med Kiroro Peak Review would be complete without talking about the Mountain Center. Just a short walk from the resort entrance, this is where the public (including non-Club Med guests) can rent gear, buy lift passes, and book ski or snowboard lessons.

The selection of gear is wider than what you’ll find in the Club Med boutique, and it’s a great option for guests who need something specific. Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned skier, the instructors here are friendly, professional, and very familiar with the terrain. You can also find a few cafes and shops in this area, giving you more options beyond what’s inside the resort.

Club Med Kiroro Peak: What to Pack for Winter

Not sure what to bring? Take a look at our What to Pack for a Ski Trip guide for an easy checklist.

If you’re flying into Tokyo or Osaka before heading to Hokkaido, consider using your layover to shop for winter clothing. Japan has a much wider variety of cold-weather gear, and prices are often better than back home. As a tourist, you can also enjoy tax-free shopping at many stores, making it even more worthwhile.

From Strangers to Friends: Our Journey at Club Med Kiroro Peak

“Come as strangers but leave as friends” perfectly sums up our experience at Club Med Kiroro Peak. This Club Med Kiroro Peak review isn’t just about the resort itself. It’s also about the people who make the place truly special. The GOs aren’t just skilled at what they do. They’re also genuinely warm and welcoming from the moment you step in. You can tell they love what they do, and they really go the extra mile to make your stay unforgettable.

It’s the little things that stay with you.

One moment I won’t forget? James from the Reception team noticed the dry skin on my fingers (I get eczema when it’s cold), and without hesitation, he walked to his office and came back with his personal L’Occitane hand cream. It was such a small gesture, but honestly, it meant a lot. It showed that they’re not just doing a job. They genuinely care.

Then there’s Tiffany from Guest Relations. We’ve actually kept in touch ever since our trip. Just recently, we had clients heading to Kiroro Peak, and Tiffany went out of her way to personally welcome them and check in throughout their stay. That kind of thoughtfulness? It’s rare. But at Club Med Kiroro, it seems to be the standard.

Insider Tips to Make the Most of Your Stay

Here are a few things I wish I’d known before going, and that you’ll be glad to know now:

• Book early, especially during peak season. It’s usually cheaper, and you’ll have more room types to choose from. Just a 20% deposit per person secures your spot, and the rest is due 60 days before check-in.
• Travelling with kids under 12? They can’t stay at Club Med Kiroro Peak, but Club Med Kiroro Grand (a 3-minute gondola ride away) welcomes families. It’s just as lovely, with a slightly different vibe.
• Planning to ski or snowboard for several days? Buying your ski wear might be more cost-effective than renting. Especially if you plan to hit the slopes again sometime.
• Don’t skip the food. The Yakiniku specialty restaurant is absolutely worth booking. And if you see lavender ice cream? Get it. Just trust me on that one.
• Layer up. It gets cold. Bring thermals, a good scarf, proper gloves, and a warm hat, preferably one that covers your ears. A trapper hat is ideal.

Club Med Kiroro Peak: It’s Worth the Trip

This place isn’t just a ski resort. It’s the kind of spot that stays with you long after the snow has melted. Between the breathtaking mountain views, top-notch ski runs, and genuinely warm hospitality, Club Med Kiroro Peak delivers an experience that’s as memorable as it is luxurious.

If you’re planning a winter escape to Japan and want to make sure everything goes smoothly, feel free to reach out to Andy or myself. We’ve both been, we’ve both fallen in love with the place, and we’d be more than happy to help you plan a trip you won’t forget.