Niseko

Fast Facts
  • Country: Japan
  • Region: Hokkaido
  • Nearest City: Saporro, Hokkaido - 2 hrs drive (90kms)
  • Nearest Domestic Airport: Saporro Chitose Airport - 2 hrs drive (116kms)
  • Nearest International Airport: Saporro Chitose New International Airport - 2 hrs drive (116kms)

Resort Overview

Set against the backdrop of the majestic Mt. Yotei, an active volcano often likened to Japan’s famous Mt. Fuji, Niseko is one of Japan’s most popular and exciting ski holiday destinations.

Located on Niseko Annupuri mountain, there are four ski resorts within the Niseko United ski area – Annupuri, Higashiyama, Hirafu, and Hanazono.

The views across to Mt Yotei make it one of the most picturesque skiing experiences in Japan; on a clear day from the summit you can see all the way to the Japan Sea.

Niseko sits just over 1300m, however what it lacks in relative height, the resort makes up for it in the quantity and quality of its snow. Every year the winter winds blow in from Russia bringing with it some of the most consistent and driest powder snow conditions in the world which makes for wonderful skiing and snowboarding.

Resort Overview
  • Ski Season: Late November – Early May
  • Overall Height: 1308m
  • Snow fall (Avg Annual Snowfall): 14-16m
  • Nearest township: Niseko
  • Accommodation: Niseko Ski Resort
  • Resort Services:

    Accommodation, Shuttle Bus, Restaurants / Cafes, Bars / Nightclub, Shopping, Supermarket, Doctor / Medical Centre, Bank / ATM (limited), Ski Hire, Pharmacy, Post Office, Visitor Information Centre, Police Station, Child Care, Petrol Station

Activities and Attractions

Niseko boasts over 48km of ski trails set among beautiful winter woodlands and the pristine natural mountains. There is an extensive lift network which can be accessed from all four resort villages with the Niseko All Mountain lift pass.

Explore the resort’s wide open runs and groomed trails or for the more adventurous there are terrain parks, extensive off-piste slopes and exhilarating tree-skiing. Qualified local guides offer backcountry adventures and tours for the ultimate untouched snow experience.

Although most people visit Niseko for the skiing and snowboarding, there are a great range of other snow activities from snowmobiling and snow tubing through to guided horse rides.

There are over 15 natural hot springs (onsens) to help you relax and unwind after a day on the slopes. GAO recommends visiting one of the natural outdoor baths, orrotenburo, where you can take in the beautiful scenery as the snow is falling around you.

When the sun sets, the adventures don’t end with night skiing and some of Japan’s best après ski culture to keep you entertained.

Resort Services

Hokkaido’s natural environment also produces some of the finest and freshest food in all of Japan. Whether you are after traditional Japanese, fresh seafood from the nearby coastal towns or your favourite international fare, the 100 or so bars and restaurants ensure you won’t go hungry or thirsty.

Niseko’s growing popularity has seen significant investment in new accommodation; so there are great luxury condominiums, international hotel chains or a traditional Japanese style inns and ski chalets for you to choose from.

Located 2 hours south west of Sapporo, there are a range of transport options to reach Niseko with regular bus services, private transfers and hire car companies operating from Sapporo and Chitose International Airport.

Activities & Attractions
  • Total Ski Area / Distance: 48km Ski Trails
  • Total Ski Lifts: 30
  • Total Ski Runs/Trails: 69
  • Beginner Ski Area: 30%
  • Intermediate Ski Area: 40%
  • Advanced Ski Area: 30%
  • Ski / Snow Activities:

    Downhill Skiing, Snowboarding, Cross-country skiing, Ski School / Lessons, Terrain Park, Snow Play Area, Snow Shoeing, Snow Tubing, Snow Kat Tours, Snow Mobile Tours, Scenic Chairlift, Night Skiing

  • Leisure Activities:

    Hot Springs, Horse Riding, Scenic Flight, Swimming Pool

  • Address: 204 Yamada, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido Prefecture View website