The drive from the seaside town of Otaru to the private resort village of Kiroro up in the hills takes about 30 minutes. Kiroro is high enough so that we passed clouds and fog along the way, along with famous local wineries. The road is supposed to be a romantic wine route, and the fog and picturesque wineries certainly made it so.

KIRORO IN THE SUMMER

Once we climbed through the fog, we found ourselves in a beautiful land with greenery all around. Kiroro is a ski destination so most international travelers only get to see it covered in white. It makes for a very dramatic effect.

However summer is equally wonderful, so I hope more visitors from abroad are able to visit Kiroro when everything is green and it’s possible to enjoy it in a different way.

THE KIRORO ACTIVITIES CENTER

Everything happens at the Kiroro Activities Center, which services the luxury Kiroro Tribute Portfolio Hotel, the ski in/ ski out Yu Residences open only in the winter, and the Sheraton Kiroro Hotel.

In the summer, the Kiroro activities team is out in full force, ready to teach kids and adults alike new sports and activities. It’s the perfect time to try something new, of course. The Kiroro activities team is composed of energetic and friendly young people who love what they are doing. They won’t stop until you are able to do what you signed up for.

READ ABOUT THE BEST NEW HOTEL IN SPAIN

WHAT TO DO IN KIRORO

In the summer, there are gondola rides to the top that offer beautiful views. This is actually the ski lift that is operational in the winter. It has been put to good use for other seasons.

Active guests can also book a hiking session with one of the Kiroro activities team. Many guests hike to a nearby waterfall or around the massive property to spot birds and small animals. Then there’s tennis, mountain biking and al fresco barbecue dinners. On some days, there’s even fireworks out in the field.

RIDING A SEGWAY IN HOKKAIDO

However my favorite summer outdoor activity at Kiroro is riding the Segway. The Segway is easy to use and fun to ride. Unfortunately, the manufacturer has gone out of business so Kiroro is one of the last few places to still offer Segway experiences. Once you get on a Segway, you will be hooked on it.

TAKE THE KIRORO 1-DAY PASSPORT FOR ALL-DAY FUN

① Park golf ② Tennis court ③ Paddle tennis ④ Rental cycle ⑤ Treasure hunt ⑥ Playground equipment rental ⑦ Slack line ⑧ Table tennis ⑨ Disc golf ⑩ Hot spring. ⑪ Mountain bike (1H) ⑫ Running Ride park
⑬ Granship

LEARNING TO RIDE A SEGWAY

The ultimate Segway activity is a ride through the forest. This is truly amazing. However, Segway first-timers must spend one session getting acquainted with their machines. Then, the instructors take them to a Segway training course where you can practice riding through bumps and across narrow bridges.

Once you have passed this Segway riding test, the instructor takes you on the forest tour. This is a most incredible experience, especially for city folk who rarely get up close and personal with wilderness. In fact, we had a wonderful time at the Kiroro Tribute Portfolio. But even just for the Segway trips, I would book a stay here again.

Read more about the best hotels and resorts in Japan in Travelife Magazine.

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