Asia’s Top 5 Ski Resorts

For all the winter sports lovers solely dedicated to the slopes in America and Europe, it’s time to venture farther east. Where you ask? Asia. Many countries across Asia, including Japan, China, Korea, and India, are home to some of the top ski resorts in the world, making Asia one of the fastest growing ski destinations worldwide. Asia also contains some of the most abundant sources of powder snow and the highest slopes in the world. Here’s our list of the top 5 resorts you’ll want to consider visiting this winter season:

Famously known for having some of the most abundant sources of powder snow in the world, is the Niseko area of Northern Japan. The area receives an abundant annual average snowfall of 15 metres, perfect for skiers and snowboarders alike. With its unique Japanese charm and mix of international influences, it’s no wonder Niseko is emerging as one of the fasting growing ski destinations in the world.

With almost ¾ of Korea covered by mountains, its not surprising Korea hosts some of Asia’s top ski resorts. At the top of the list is Yongpyong Resort, Korea’s biggest ski and snowboard resort. Since born in 1975, the resort has grown to have an international reputation for being Asia’s Mecca for sports. Across Yongpyong’s 4,300 acres lies a 45-hole golf course, 31 ski slopes, premium hotels, European-style condominiums, and other leisurely facilities ideal for the whole family. The beautiful environment, which gets an annual snowfall average of 250cm, is perfect for all winter sports buffs.

Recently named one of the best resorts for families in China by Trip Advisor is China’s Yabuli International Ski Resort. Yabuli is China’s first and largest ski resort. Located in the extreme northeast of China, the resort is great for all ages and experience levels. In fact, China’s National Ski Team trains on Yabuli’s slopes. The resort prides itself on having one of the finest ski domains in the world. Due to the resort’s exceptional surroundings, guests can put on their ski gear in the ski room, and essentially ski right out the door. For après skiing, take advantage of Yabuli’s Spa by L’OCCITANE, where you’ll find 9 treatment rooms providing a variety of beauty and message treatments.

Chosen as the official destination of the 2018 Winter Olympics is Pyeongchang, South Korea, where the Alpensia Resort is predicted to be the main destination for lodging. Alpensia is often pegged as one of Korea’s hottest ski destinations in South Korea, and rightly so. The resort contains an impressive 6 ski jump slopes, cross-country routes, and bobsled facilities. If your not an avid skier or snowboarded, visit Ocean 700, the resort’s huge indoor water park that accommodates 3,200 people and remains open year round. If you don’t get around to visiting this ski gem, be sure to experience the beauty of the area by watching the Olympics!

Experience incredible powder skiing and the unique culture of India at Gulmarg Ski Resort. Gulmarg resides at the western extremity of the Himalayas in a subsidiary range called the Pir Panjals, which receives some of the heaviest snowfalls in the Himalayas. For those who love extreme heights, you’re in luck. Gulmarg has the world’s highest gondola, which sweeps skiers and snowboarders up the resort’s 2,213 metre summit. With the combination of the massive amounts of snowfalls and towering slopes, Gulmarg is easily regarded as the best ski resort in the Himalayas.