Kajian Club Med Sahoro

When people think of Japan in winter, a few things come to mind: deep powder snow, steaming onsens, and food that somehow tastes even better in the cold. So when I had the chance to visit Club Med Sahoro, tucked away in the quieter corners of Hokkaido, I wasn’t expecting a flashy scene. I was expecting something more peaceful. Intimate. Maybe even a bit nostalgic. And I think that’s exactly what I got.

This Club Med Sahoro review is based on what I experienced personally. The good bits, the little quirks, and everything else in between. If you’re planning a family ski holiday or looking for a low-key escape with a bit of snow and a lot of food, keep reading. You might like what you find.

Location: Remote, But That’s The Point

Let’s start with where it is. Club Med Sahoro is located in Shintoku, which sits tucked into central Hokkaido, surrounded by nature and not much else. You don’t come here expecting large crowds or nightlife or crazy après-ski scenes. In fact, if that’s what you’re after, you’re better off looking at Club Med Tomamu or even Niseko.

What you get instead is calm. The kind of quiet you don’t realise you need until you’re in it. It feels more like a peaceful mountain lodge that just happens to come with ski lifts, unlimited food, a heated pool, and childcare. There’s a sense of stillness here, both in the snowy scenery and the overall pace.

So yes, it’s remote. Getting here takes time, usually a flight to Sapporo, followed by a transfer to the resort. But that’s part of the charm. You leave the chaos behind. You settle in. And suddenly, the remoteness becomes the very reason it feels like a proper escape.

It’s the kind of place where you wake up, draw the curtains, and spot fox tracks winding through the snow. Where kids can run around outside, bundled up and laughing, while parents sip coffee inside, relaxed and unbothered. Evenings here don’t rush you. Maybe there’s a casual night show, maybe a long soak in the onsen, or just a quiet drink at the bar while the snow keeps falling outside.

Is It Worth Visiting?

Short answer? Absolutely. Especially if you’re travelling as a couple, solo, or with a small family. The resort isn’t massive or overwhelming. It’s easy to settle in. The whole place has this gentle, unhurried pace. People are friendly. Staff remember your name. Kids are entertained without being overstimulated. And you won’t be spending ages just walking from one end of the resort to the other.

If you’ve been to bigger Club Med ski resorts like Tomamu or Kiroro Grand, you’ll notice the contrast almost immediately. Sahoro isn’t here to wow you with its size. It’s not flashy. It’s more about comfort. Slowing down. Letting the snow fall quietly outside while you finally finish that book or take a nap you didn’t plan on.

Best Time to Visit Club Med Sahoro

Ski season usually kicks off in early December and runs through March. But let’s be honest, early December can be hit or miss. Sometimes the snow just hasn’t fully arrived yet, and it’s a bit of a gamble.

Things really come alive from late December onwards. That’s when the landscape turns into that soft, powdery dream everyone hopes for. January and February? Peak snow. Cold, yes, but the kind of cold that makes hot cocoa taste better and the slopes feel perfect.

By mid-March, you’ll start to notice the snow softening up. Still pretty, still skiable, but a little slushier. Great if you’re here for the views and gentle runs, not so great if you’re chasing that crisp, dry powder.

So, the sweet spot? Late December through early March. That’s when Sahoro truly shine

Getting There and Airport Transfers

Most people fly into Lapangan Terbang Chitose Baharu. That’s the main airport serving Sapporo and the easiest gateway to Hokkaido’s ski resorts. From there, it’s about a 2.5 to 3-hour journey by road to the resort. Sounds long, but it’s surprisingly pleasant. You’ll pass quiet little towns, snow-covered forests, and open stretches of mountain landscape that make the ride feel peaceful rather than tiring.

The most common way to get there is by booking a shared transfer with Club Med. But if you prefer something more flexible or private, maybe because you’re arriving early, late, or with kids in tow, Travelution Holidays can help arrange door-to-door pemindahan persendirian to suit your schedule. We also offer pre- and post-stay add-ons to places like Sapporo, Otaru or Noboribetsu if you’re planning to explore more of Hokkaido.

There’s also the train option. You can take the Limited Express from New Chitose Airport or Sapporo Station to Shintoku Station, which is the closest train stop to the resort. It’s comfortable, scenic, and a popular choice for those travelling light. From Shintoku, Club Med can arrange a transfer to Sahoro for an additional cost. Just let us know in advance so we can sort it out for you.

Once you arrive at the resort, everything runs smoothly. Check-in starts at 3pm. You’ll be given a wristband that works as both your room key and ID, and your luggage will be sent directly to your room. That means you can take a breath, go for a little wander, grab a warm drink or snack, and properly settle in before you even think about unpacking.

Resort Layout: Compact and Easy to Navigate

The resort isn’t massive, and honestly, that’s part of its charm. Everything’s within easy reach, whether you’re heading to the ski lockers, grabbing a bite, booking a spa session or meeting friends at the bar, you’ll never have to walk far.

Rooms are spread across three main buildings

• Ashoro Building (Building A): This is where the Family Deluxe Rooms are located. It sits just above the main entrance and bar, which is super convenient if you like to pop down for a drink or enjoy the evening entertainment without a long walk back to your room.
• Bihoro Building (Building B): You’ll find the Deluxe and Suite Rooms here. It’s positioned right above the boutique and close to the indoor sports hall, so it’s handy if you’re travelling with kids or want quick access to activities.
• Chitose Building (Building C): This wing houses the Junior Family Superior Rooms. It’s the closest one to the ski lockers, spa, indoor pool and the Canadian bath. So if you’re planning to ski daily and wind down in the jacuzzi after, this is probably the most practical spot to stay.

What’s Included at Club Med Sahoro?

This is where Club Med really does its thing. Once you’re checked in, most of the planning is out the window because just about everything’s taken care of:

• Penginapan
• All meals and drinks
• Ski passes
• Pelajaran ski berkumpulan dan papan salji
• Kids clubs from 4 years and up
• Hiburan petang
• Fitness classes and some indoor sports

No need to fumble with cash or think twice before ordering another hot chocolate (or something stronger). It’s all included. You just ski, eat, relax, and do it all again the next day.

Rooms: Cosy, Practical, and Family-Friendly

Let’s break down the rooms. They’re not ultra-modern or luxurious, but they’re comfy and warm. Which, honestly, is what you want when you’re coming back from a day in the snow.

Room Types and Occupancy:

• Keluarga Superior Junior: Sleeps up to 3 adults. Good for couples or a small family.
• Deluxe Room: Max 2 adults. Cosier and comes with a bonus minibar.
• Family Deluxe Tatami: Max 4 adults. Traditional Japanese-style futon bedding.
• Master Family Deluxe Tatami: Max 4 adults and 1 child. Bigger, more space to spread out.
• Suite Mountain View: Max 4 adults and 1 child under 12. Extra roomy with a minibar that’s refilled daily.

If you want a touch of indulgence, the Suite is definitely worth it. We stayed in the Family Deluxe Room Tatami, and one thing we noticed: there’s no bathtub, which seems to be pretty common in Japanese hotels. That said, the room was surprisingly spacious by local standards, and the tatami-style lounge area gave it a cosy, traditional feel. Bonus points for the complimentary minibar, which even included instant noodles. Perfect for a late-night snack or lazy afternoon bite.

Dining: Japanese Food Heaven

Let’s talk food. Because honestly, the food here is one of the best parts of this Club Med Sahoro review.

Main Restaurant – Daichi

This is where most meals are served. It’s buffet-style, but don’t let that fool you. It’s good. You’ll find everything from ramen and sushi to roast meats and Western options. The Japanese food, as expected, is consistently solid.

Breakfasts are hearty. Grilled fish, miso soup, eggs, fruit, and pastries. There is something for everyone, whether you want local flavours or just a simple toast and coffee situation.

Specialty Restaurant – Mina Mina

This one’s all about hot pot, but only at dinner, and yes, you do need a reservation. It’s not fancy or formal, but the experience feels just right. Especially when it’s snowing outside and you’re sitting around a steaming pot of soup, warming up after a day out.

For late lunch, Mina Mina switches things up with a casual à la carte menu. Think miso ramen, curry don, grilled salmon, burgers. Great if you missed lunch hours at the buffet or just want a

Main Bar – Wakka

Coffee in the morning, cocktails in the evening. Wakka is where most people naturally drift throughout the day. It’s a cosy little hub, warm and inviting, especially when you’ve just come in from the cold. In the mornings, it’s quiet and calm. Great for reading, catching up on messages, or just sipping a latte while the snow falls outside.

By late afternoon, the vibe shifts. Skiers and snowboarders return from the slopes, and the bar slowly fills with that happy post-adventure buzz. You’ll hear a mix of languages, laughter, and the soft clink of glasses.

Evenings are when Wakka really comes alive. It gets busiest just before the nightly show starts, so it’s a great time to grab a drink, find a comfy seat, and soak up the energy.

Activities and Entertainment

This isn’t just a ski resort. There’s more to do than just go up and down the slopes.

Bermain ski dan papan salji

Group lessons are included, and that makes a huge difference. The instructors? Genuinely friendly, patient, and really good with kids. You don’t feel rushed. And if you’re a total beginner, it’s surprisingly welcoming.

Snow Trekking

Don’t ski? No problem. Snow trekking lets you explore the beautiful powdery landscape at a slower, more peaceful pace. Honestly, it’s worth doing even if you buat ski.

Fitness and Dance Classes

Depending on the day, you’ll find Zumba, stretching, and aqua fitness. A little something to keep you moving even when you’re not on the mountain. It’s a nice balance to all the eating and lounging.

Indoor Activities

You’ve got options here. Gym, squash, badminton, wall climbing. All indoors, which is great when it’s just a bit too cold outside.

Nightly Shows

Every evening, something’s going on. Music, comedy, and themed performances. Some are hilarious, others more heartfelt. Sure, it’s not Broadway, but it’s fun. That kind of light-hearted fun you don’t realise you missed.

Private ski and snowboard lessons are also available if you want that extra one-on-one time — but they do come at an extra cost.

Wellness and Relaxation

After a day carving down the slopes, few things feel better than sinking into hot water while snowflakes quietly drift around you. It’s that kind of peaceful moment that sticks with you.

Indoor Swimming Pool

It’s technically heated, but don’t expect a warm, spa-like soak. The water tends to be on the cooler side, so the first dip might feel a little brisk. Still, once you’re in, it’s perfectly fine for a light swim or a bit of gentle stretching, especially if your legs are feeling sore after a long day of walking or skiing.

Jacuzzi

This is where the magic really happens. The water is slightly warmer than the pool and those gentle bubbles do wonders for tired muscles. After a long day out and about, slipping into the jacuzzi just hits different. It’s the kind of spot you pop into “just for a bit” and end up staying way longer than planned. Honestly, you’ll probably find yourself coming back again and again… it’s addictive like that.

Ofuro

A traditional Japanese bath experience. Simple, serene, and deeply calming. It’s gender-separated, completely silent, and designed for quiet reflection. No music, no chatter, no distractions. Just warm water, stillness, and a moment to breathe.

Before entering the tub, guests are expected to disrobe completely and take a proper shower to cleanse the body. It’s all part of the ritual and shows respect for the space and others around you.

The best part? It’s open 24 hours a day, so you can soak whenever the mood strikes. Early morning, late at night, whenever. Just note that it’s closed for cleaning daily between 11am and 1pm.

Canadian Bath

If there’s one thing you absolutely have to try, it’s this. An open-air hot bath tucked among snow-covered trees. It feels almost unreal, like stepping into a scene from a winter film. The contrast between the icy air and the steaming water is pure magic.

Bring a towel, take your time, and if you can, go mid-morning when it’s usually quiet. Just you, the warmth, and the sound of snow gently falling around you. Total bliss.

Spa

If you’re in the mood to really treat yourself, massages and wellness treatments are available to take your relaxation to the next level. Think muscle-melting massages, soothing facials, or even full-body treatments that’ll have you floating out the door.

Please note spa is not included in the Club Med package, so there’s an extra charge. And if you’re visiting during peak season, it’s worth booking early. Slots tend to fill up quickly, especially in the late afternoons when everyone’s winding down from the day.

Kids Club: For Young Explorers

This is honestly one of the best parts about staying at Club Med with kids. The little ones are kept happy and entertained, and you actually get a proper break to ski, relax, or just breathe for a moment.

Petit Club Med (ages 2–3)

This one isn’t included in the standard package. It comes at an extra cost. But it’s well-run, and if your toddler is the kind who loves crafts, singing, and gentle play, it’s worth considering.

Mini Club Med (ages 4–10)

Included in your stay. The kids get ski lessons, play games, rehearse for little shows, and burn off all that extra energy while making friends. Ours didn’t want to leave at the end of the day.

Teens Club & Chill Pass (ages 11–17)

Much more relaxed. No fixed programme, really. Teens can join ski groups, hang out, or just roam a bit freely with others their age. No pressure, just a space to be independent, which they’ll probably love.

And just be aware, there’s no Baby Club here. So if you’re travelling with an infant, you’ll need to plan your days a little more around them.

Mesyuarat dan Pembinaan Pasukan

There’s one meeting room at the resort. It’s simple but does the job. Good enough for a small group retreat, team discussion, or a casual team-building session.

Some companies do bring their teams here for incentive trips, especially if the goal is to reward and recharge. Just keep in mind, this is very much a leisure-first kind of place. So if you’re looking for a full corporate setup with multiple breakout rooms and AV tech galore, this might not be it. But for mixing light work with play? It works..

Check-Out and Final Day Tips

Check-out time is at 10am. If your transfer isn’t until later, you don’t have to rush off. You can still hang around the resort and make the most of the facilities for the rest of the day. Hit the pool, grab a drink, maybe squeeze in one last soak in the Canadian bath.

That said, your room needs to be vacated by 10am. If you’d like to keep it a bit longer, late check-out is possible, but it comes with an extra fee. Luggage storage is available at the reception, and there are showers you can use before heading out.

A few quick tips:

• Sunscreen is a must, yes, even in the snow. The sun reflects off the white slopes and can burn faster than you’d expect.
• Bring your own goggles and gloves. You boleh buy them at the resort boutique, but expect to pay premium prices. Same goes for neck warmers and thermal socks.
• Laundry-wise, there are self-service machines available. Super handy for longer stays. Just remember to pack some detergent, or you can grab some from the boutique if needed.

Comparing Sahoro to Tomamu and Kiroro

If you’re researching Club Med ski resorts in Hokkaido, chances are Tomamu and Kiroro have popped up too. And fair enough, both are newer and flashier. But how does Sahoro hold its ground against them?

Let’s start with Club Med Tomamu. It’s big. Like, noticeably big. The place feels more like a snow city than a cosy resort. The buildings are spread out, the vibe’s livelier, and there’s always something happening. Great if you like a bit of buzz, and especially if you’re into extras like Japan’s largest indoor wave pool or the ice village. It’s made to impress, and for many people, that’s exactly what they’re after.

Then there’s Kiroro, the newest and most polished of the trio. You’ve got two options: Club Med Kiroro Grand, which is family-friendly, and Club Med Kiroro Peak, which is adults-only. Both feel fresh, stylish, and a bit more upmarket. Think sleeker interiors, more curated food experiences, and panoramic mountain views that make you pause for a second. It’s definitely the most premium option on the table.

Club Med Sahoro, though, is a different kind of charm. It doesn’t try to wow you with size or flash. Instead, it leans into calm, comfort, and character. The design is more traditional, the atmosphere quieter, and everything, from the rooms to the slopes to the kids club, is just closer. That simplicity makes a difference, especially if you’re travelling with little ones or just don’t want to walk half a distance just to get breakfast.

If you’re all about luxury and options, Tomamu or Kiroro might suit you better. But if you’re craving a peaceful, easy winter break that still delivers the core Club Med experience, Sahoro is the one to beat.

What First-Timers Should Know

If you’ve never stayed at a Club Med resort, or never touched a pair of skis, Club Med Sahoro is honestly one of the easiest places to start.

First off, group ski lessons are included. And they’re actually good. Instructors here are kind, patient, and used to teaching all sorts of guests, from tiny kids to slightly nervous adults. Most of them speak English, and the classes are split by ability, so you won’t feel out of place even if you’re starting from zero.

The rental process? Super smooth. On arrival day, you’ll head to the rental area to get sized up for boots, skis or snowboard, and helmet. Once that’s done, your gear gets stored in your own ski locker.

And you’ll appreciate how compact the whole resort is. Everything’s close together. After a ski lesson, it’s just a short walk back to your room. No long treks or confusing layouts.

Ski-in, ski-out access is another big plus. You can literally clip in your skis and go straight onto the slope. Or, if you’re feeling wiped out, it’s easy to call it a day and warm up in the onsen or grab a hot chocolate.

And if you’re worried about figuring out how Club Med works, don’t be. It’s mostly buffets, daily activities, and evening shows. You’ll get the hang of it fast, and the Club Med GOs are always happy to help.

All in all, Sahoro is gentle, welcoming, and set up to take the stress out of learning to ski.

Club Med Sahoro for Couples vs Families

Club Med Sahoro works surprisingly well for both, but in very different ways.

For families, it’s easy. The kids club is reliable, the staff are warm, and the activities are structured. There’s a separate beginner slope for kids, and even the mealtimes are kid-friendly with early starts and plenty of options.

For couples, it’s peaceful. You can take long walks in the snow, sneak off for quiet moments in the sauna, and enjoy adult ski lessons at your own pace. There’s a cosy bar area that feels intimate, especially in the evenings. And with fewer people around, it’s easier to have meaningful, uninterrupted time together.

But it’s not “luxury romantic.” It’s more about simple, shared experiences. Like gliding down a slope for the first time together or catching the snowfall through the windows after dinner.

Final Thoughts on Club Med Sahoro Semakan

Let’s wrap this Club Med Sahoro review up. If you’re chasing that high-energy, ultra-luxurious ski holiday with a buzzing après-ski scene, this probably isn’t it.

But if what you’re after is a quiet, all-inclusive winter escape, somewhere calm, a bit magical, and full of small, thoughtful touches, then Club Med Sahoro might be exactly what you need. It’s got just the right mix of snow, simplicity, and charm.

You’ll like it if you’re:

• A small family looking for quality time (and some help from the kids club)
• A couple trying skiing for the first time without the stress
• Friends wanting a snowy escape without the noise
• Someone who secretly loves miso soup for breakfast and long soaks in outdoor baths while snowflakes fall

It’s not the fanciest Club Med. But honestly, that’s kind of the point. It feels real. Comfortable. Familiar in the best way.

Booking Your Stay at Club Med Sahoro

Want to make things easier? Book through Travelution Holidays. We’ve actually been to Club Med Sahoro ourselves, so we’re not guessing when we give you advice.

We can help with everything: flights that match your check-in time, the best transfer options from New Chitose or Obihiro, and even which room category might work better if you’re travelling with kids, a group, or just as a couple.

Not sure what to pack for skiing? We’ll walk you through it. Want to add a quick stopover in Tokyo or visit a scenic onsen town after your trip? We’ll sort that too.

And if you’re still deciding between Sahoro, Tomamu, Kiroro Grand, or Kiroro Peak, we’re happy to compare them honestly. No sales pressure, just proper advice based on real visits and real feedback.

It’s travel planning, minus the overwhelm. Just tell us your dates, your vibe, and what you’re hoping to get out of the trip. We’ll take care of the rest. ❤️