Hi, I’m Yan — a travel creator exploring the world with my child.
Welcome to Yan’s World!
Today I’m sharing everything about one of the most magical
winter experiences in Hokkaido — the Frost Terrace at
Hoshino Resort Tomamu.
It’s not just a ski resort. Take the gondola up above the
clouds and you’ll find yourself in a real-life winter
wonderland. Here’s our full family review plus everything
you need to know about KUMO Cafe!
[1]
- What is “Frost” (Muyou)?
You might wonder — what’s the difference between the summer
Cloud Sea Terrace and the winter Frost Terrace?
In summer, clouds fill the valley below. In winter, the
mountaintop transforms into something even more breathtaking
— trees covered entirely in ice crystals called frost flowers.
[2]
This isn’t just snow. Each tree glitters as if wrapped in
transparent glass.
[3]
On lucky mornings, you can even witness “Diamond Dust” —
tiny ice crystals floating in the air, sparkling like
diamonds in the sunlight.
- 2025-26 Season Gondola Guide
Operating Period: December 1, 2025 – April 5, 2026
Gondola Hours:
- Dec 1–10: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM (last descent 1:00 PM)
- Dec 11–25: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (last descent 3:30 PM)
- Dec 26–Mar 31: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM (last descent 4:00 PM)
- Apr 1–5: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (last descent 3:30 PM)
[4]
Gondola Fees:
- Resort guests: FREE (use your free pass from check-in!)
- Day visitors: Adults ¥2,200 / Elementary ¥1,300
- Preschool children: FREE
[5]
We stayed at the resort and rode the gondola every morning
for free. My child would wake up saying “Mom, let’s go see
the clouds!” — the gondola itself was thrilling for kids!
- Cloud Walk & Cloud Bar
[6]
Cloud Walk
A bridge designed to make you feel like you’re walking on
clouds. The snowy mountain ridges below are breathtaking.
Every photo here looks stunning — pure white no matter
where you point your camera!
[7]
Cloud Bar
Bar-style high chairs 3 meters above the ground with
incredible mountain views. The cold disappears completely
when you’re this mesmerized by the scenery.
[8]
Note: Young children may feel nervous at the height —
parents should stay close!
- KUMO Cafe — Warm Up in Style
[9]
After freezing outside, KUMO Cafe is your warm escape.
Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the snowy mountain views
perfectly.
[10]
Must-try highlights:
- Hot drinks: A warm coffee or cocoa after being outside
is pure bliss - Cloud-shaped desserts: KUMO means “cloud” in Japanese —
fluffy cloud-inspired treats that kids absolutely love!
[11]
- Diamond Dust views: Sit by the window and watch ice
crystals dance in the sunlight from the warmth inside
- Essential Tips Before You Visit
[12]
Getting There (Shuttle Bus):
- Resort guests: Free shuttle from The Tower or
Risonare Tomamu lobby to the gondola station - Day visitors: Head directly to the Resort Center
[13]
Photography Rules:
Personal photos are welcome! However, commercial
photography and drone use are strictly prohibited
without permission.
[14]
What to Wear:
The mountaintop is extremely cold, especially with wind!
Must-haves:
- Warm winter boots (sneakers will slip!)
- Gloves, hat, scarf, hand warmers
[15]
For kids: Ski suits are perfect — warm and waterproof
for playing in the snow!
[16]
The Frost Terrace at Hoshino Resort Tomamu was truly one
of the most unforgettable experiences of our Hokkaido
winter trip.
[17]
Waking up every morning wondering what shape the frost
flowers would take, then sipping warm coffee above the
clouds — it felt more luxurious than anything money can buy.
[18]
Highly recommended for families with young children and
anyone who can’t ski. This winter, come create memories
in Tomamu’s frozen wonderland!
