Niseko

Niseko was Hokkaido’s first international ski resort. Early ski travelers were drawn to resorts around Mount Annupuri due to its reputation for receiving huge amounts of powder snow thanks to its location near the Sea of Japan and the super low temperatures in Hokkaido. Over the years, foreign interest has resulted in rapid modernisation and the once quiet area is now a truly international resort town. For travelers, Niseko has it all - epic rides,  modern accommodation, world class dining, relaxing onsens and a buzzing apres scene. 

Skiing in Niseko

The skiing experience in Niseko ranks among the best in the world. With an annual snowfall that exceeds 15 meters, there is a high chance of scoring epic powder days.  The resort area comprises four main interconnected ski areas: Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village, and Annupuri, offering an extensive variety of slopes catering to all skill levels. 

Niseko United

The Niseko United All mountain pass gives you access to all 4 ski resorts in Niseko. You have to pay a little more but you get to ski from one resort to another and utilize the connecting shuttle buses for free. Good option if you are planning to explore more of Niseko.

Niseko Rules

Niseko was the first resort to recognize the hunger for off piste skiing and created the Niseko gate system for controlled access to off piste terrain. All skiers and boarders should abide by the resort rules, register and only enter the backcountry through these gates.

Niseko Food

You aren’t going to find any other resorts with the variety and quality of food as in Niseko. The food is exceptional on mountain, with a variety of restaurants, cozy huts and food halls. While downtown, there is michelin starred dining with degustation menus, traditional izakayas and robata yas, sushi-tens, barista made coffee and pop up food trucks.

Where to Stay in Niseko

You can find anything from premium ski in / ski out hotels to lodges in Niseko. Where you stay depends on which resort you will mainly be skiing at and whether you need quick access to dining and entertainment venues. Hirafu has the largest amount of accommodation and range, with apartments, backpackers lodges and even capsule hotels.

Niseko Ski Shops & Rentals

There are possibly more ski & snowboard shops in Niseko than anywhere else in Japan. Most shops have English speaking staff and there are a couple of Australian shops with bases in Niseko. Its also definitely worth checking out the local independent brands like Gentemstick who have come to define Japan’s snow culture.

Things to Do in Niseko

Apart from the awesome snow, travelers have fallen for Niseko for it’s unique blend of international and local culture. Hirafu has enough restaurants, cafes and bars to keep down days interesting with cafes, galleries and shops to explore. Nearby Kutchan city offers a more laidback local experience. When its time to relax and rejuvenate, try out the different onsens in Niseko and soak up their healing properties.