Dreaming of a blissful getaway in a winter wonderland? Then you’re probably already looking into how to get to Club Med Kiroro. Tucked away in the breathtaking Hokkaido region of Japan, this all-inclusive ski resort offers powdery slopes, crisp mountain air, and plenty of ways to relax once the skis come off. But before you start sipping mulled wine at the lounge or racing down the runs, you’ll need to figure out how to get to Club Med Kiroro in the first place. Let’s break it down.
How to Get to Club Med Kiroro: Quick Overview
First things first. Club Med Kiroro is located around 110 km west of New Chitose Airport, near the coastal town of Otaru. There are two Club Med resorts in the area, Club Med Kiroro Peak dan Club Med Kiroro Grand, and both are reachable by air, train, road, or a combination of all three. Whether you want the convenience of a shuttle or prefer to road trip through snowy countryside, there’s an option for you.
Just a heads-up: before arriving in Japan, you’ll need to fill out your arrival info on the Visit Japan Web and complete your customs declaration online.
Fly Into New Chitose Airport (CTS)
The easiest way to get to Club Med Kiroro is by flying into New Chitose Airport. It’s the main international airport in Hokkaido and connects to cities across Asia and the rest of Japan. Once you land, you’ll find several ways to continue your journey to Club Med Kiroro.
How to Get to Club Med Kiroro From the Airport?
Shared Shuttle Service
Club Med runs a shared shuttle from New Chitose Airport straight to both Kiroro Peak and Kiroro Grand. It’s an easy, ski-friendly option that takes around two hours. Along the way, you’ll pass snowy forests, mountain backdrops, and little towns that look like they’ve come straight out of a postcard.
To secure your seat, be sure to book at least 7 days before you arrive, preferably when you confirm your stay. You’ll need to provide your flight details so they can sync the schedule properly.
Also, check out our Club Med Transfers page for info on where to find the Club Med Transfer Counter at Chitose Airport, plus the full shared transfer schedule.
One thing to note: if you’re flying AirAsia out of Chitose at 09:55, the shuttle won’t work for you. It’s timed for flights departing 11 AM and later. In that case, a private transfer or staying overnight near the airport might be better.
Pemindahan Persendirian
If you’d rather skip waiting or travel at your own pace, private transfers are available too. These are perfect for families or small groups who want the vehicle to themselves. It can cost more than the shared shuttle, especially if you’re travelling solo or as a small family, but with more people, it might actually work out cheaper.
Take the Train
For a scenic and relaxed route, you can take the train from New Chitose Airport to Otaru Station. It’s a beautiful 93-minute ride with snowy views and coastal scenes. Tickets cost around ¥2,750 and trains run regularly.
From Otaru Station, Club Med Kiroro is about a 40-minute drive. You can either take a taxi (about ¥6,000-¥8,000) or a local bus (¥1,200). Both are easy, and taxis are especially handy if you’re carrying ski gear.
Self-Drive to Club Med Kiroro
If you like road trips and don’t mind winter driving, you can rent a car at New Chitose Airport and head out on your own. Just remember that Malaysians and many other visitors need an international driving permit as well as a physical drive license to drive in Japan.
The route to Club Med Kiroro takes about two hours. Snow tires are a must, and snow chains are a good idea just in case. Once you reach the resort, you’ll find 1,900 outdoor parking spots ready and waiting.
A Few Helpful Travel Tips
Pack Wisely
It gets pretty cold up there, so don’t forget to pack warm layers, gloves, and maybe even hand warmers. The sun can be surprisingly strong too, so throw in some sunscreen. Not sure what to bring? We’ve got a full guide on apa yang perlu dikemas untuk perjalanan ski. If you’ve got your own gear, you can courier it ahead. If not, no stress, the resort has skis and snowboard for rent.
Learn a Few Phrases
Japanese people are friendly, but not everyone speaks English.
A few useful phrases:
- Konnichiwa (Hello)
- Arigatou gozaimasu (Thank you)
- Sumimasen (Excuse me)
- Doko desu ka? (Where is it?)
Cash Is Still King
Many shops take cards, but not all. Get some Japanese Yen before you go or exchange at the airport. Having smaller bills helps when paying for taxis or snacks along the way.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Since May 2023, Club Med no longer includes insurance with bookings. If you’re a Malaysian resident, you can get in touch with Travelution Holidays to purchase insurans perjalanan. This is especially important if you’re heading somewhere with snow and ski activities.
FAQs: How to Get to Club Med Kiroro
How far is Club Med Kiroro from New Chitose Airport?
About 110 km. It takes roughly two hours by car or bus.
What’s the distance between Club Med Kiroro Grand and Kiroro Peak?
Just 3 minutes by bus or gondola. Super easy to move between them.
Can I rent ski equipment at Club Med Kiroro?
Yes, everything from skis to helmets is available for rent on-site. The only things you’ll need to bring (or buy) are gloves and goggles, mainly for hygiene reasons.
Are there places nearby worth visiting?
Definitely. Otaru is a charming town full of old-world charm and glass shops. Sapporo is also within reach for food, shopping, and culture.
What kind of food is served at the resort?
You’ll find a variety of Asian favourites, Italian classics like pasta and pizza, and Western fusion dishes with creative twists. Expect everything from sushi and ramen to fresh seafood, and flavour-packed vegetarian options.
Is Club Med Kiroro family-friendly?
Absolutely. Club Med Kiroro Grand is built for families, with dedicated Kids’ Clubs, fun indoor and outdoor activities like snow play and creative workshops, plus kid-friendly meals and family entertainment. Parents can ski or unwind at the onsen knowing their little ones are well cared for.
Do I need a visa for Japan?
Malaysians can enter Japan visa-free for up to 90 days. Just make sure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your trip.
Your Snowy Getaway Starts Here
So now you know how to get to Club Med Kiroro. Whether you’re catching a shared shuttle, hiring a private transfer, or taking the scenic train ride through Hokkaido’s snowy countryside, the journey is all part of the fun. Each option has its own charm. Just pick what fits your pace, your travel style, and your group.
The most important thing? Plan ahead. Trains and shuttles in Japan run on tight schedules, so having your timings sorted out early can save you a lot of stress. That said, things don’t always go perfectly (think, delayed flights or snowy roads), so it helps to stay a little flexible too.
Before you know it, you’ll be sipping hot chocolate in the cosy lounge, watching the snow fall outside, and wondering why you didn’t come here sooner.
Safe travels, and enjoy every moment at Club Med Kiroro! ❤️
