Niseko is known for its "silky powder" snow, which is coveted by skiers and snowboarders around the world.

The area's charms include the wide variety of ways to enjoy the area, including the extremely fine, fluffy snow due to low humidity and the many ski courses, as well as the beautiful scenery surrounded by magnificent nature, hot springs, and rich local cuisine.

In this article, we will focus on Niseko Ski Resort and explain why this popular spot in Hokkaido is so popular with tourists from all over the world.

We'll also introduce recommended ski courses that can be enjoyed by beginners to advanced skiers, as well as convenient access methods from international airports. We'll provide you with plenty of information to help you enjoy winter in Japan!

What is Niseko, the resort town in western Hokkaido?

Niseko Town, located in western Hokkaido, is a ski resort known for its exquisite "silky powder" snow and a wide variety of ski courses.

In addition to skiing, there are plenty of attractions to enjoy, such as the natural beauty of the seasons, hot springs where you can experience the feeling of being healed by a hot spring, and gourmet food made with locally produced ingredients. It is a popular spot visited by many tourists from both within Japan and overseas.

Why is Niseko so popular?

The reason Niseko has attracted attention from all over the world is because of the excellent quality of its snow, known as "silky powder." This light, slippery snow provides ideal conditions for skiers and snowboarders.

There are also a wide variety of ski resorts that can be enjoyed by everyone from beginners to advanced skiers, and many facilities and staff can speak English, making it a safe destination for tourists from overseas.

Another attraction is that you can receive high quality service at reasonable prices compared to European and American ski resorts.

In the summer, you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and rafting, as well as relaxing hot springs, making it a popular all-season resort that can be enjoyed all year round.

Niseko United ski resorts and recommended courses

Each ski resort in the Niseko area has its own unique charm and offers a wide variety of courses that can be enjoyed by beginners to advanced skiers. Below, we will introduce the characteristics of each major ski resort and recommended courses.

Niseko Grand Hirafu

Features : The largest ski resort in the Niseko area. With a variety of courses and extensive night skiing facilities, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding all day long.

Recommended Tours

• Night Course → You can enjoy a fantastic nighttime skiing experience, and it is especially popular with beginners and intermediate skiers.

Niseko Annupuri International Ski Resort

Features : Long runs and stable snow quality make this an ideal environment for families and intermediate skiers.

Recommended Tours

• Grand Hill → A course for intermediate skiers, with a moderate slope and long run.

Niseko Village Ski Resort

Features : Many steep slopes and forest courses, recommended for advanced skiers. A high-end resort area is also located next door, so you can enjoy a luxurious atmosphere.

Recommended Tours

• Mizarelle → A thrilling course with steep slopes and forest paths, perfect for testing your skills.

Niseko Hanazono Ski Resort

Features : There are many courses for beginners and families. The snow park is also well-equipped, making it popular with families with children.

Recommended Tours

• Family Run : A gentle slope that beginners and children can ski safely.

Backcountry Area

Backcountry skiing is available at all ski resorts. You can have a special experience skiing through untouched nature. This is an area that advanced skiers should definitely try.

Recommended sightseeing spots in Niseko, Hokkaido

Roadside Station Niseko View Plaza

This is a popular spot where you can find fresh local vegetables and specialty products. There is a wide selection of "Yes! Clean" certified vegetables and souvenirs, which are made using reduced amounts of pesticides, so you can enjoy new discoveries every season. There is also an information center on the premises that provides information on nearby tourist spots and events, making it convenient for first-time visitors.

access

Car: About 10 minutes from Niseko Station. Parking: Free.
Public transport : About 15 minutes walk or a few minutes bus ride from JR Niseko Station.

Shinsen Marsh

This is a natural spot that represents Niseko, where you can enjoy the scenery of each season. The autumn leaves and alpine plants in spring are particularly beautiful. A boardwalk is provided, and you can walk there in about 20 minutes. From the observation deck, you can get a panoramic view of the Sea of Japan and the Shakotan mountains, and feel refreshed in nature. There is also a parking lot, a snack corner, and toilets, so you can visit with peace of mind.

access

Car: About 40 minutes from Niseko Station. Parking: Free.
Public transport: Approximately 1 hour by bus from JR Kutchan Station + 20 minutes on foot.

Mount Yotei (Ezo Fuji)

It is a stratovolcano with an elevation of 1,898m and is affectionately known as "Ezo Fuji."

• Summer : You can see about 80 kinds of alpine plants along the four hiking trails. From the summit you can see the Sea of Japan and the Pacific Ocean.
• Winter : Enjoy the winter scenery on snowshoes.
• Spring water : The mineral-rich water is popular and used by local restaurants.

It is a symbol of Niseko where you can enjoy spectacular natural scenery and activities.

access

Car: About 20 minutes from Niseko Station to the trailhead (Hirafuguchi). Parking: Free.
Public transport: Approximately 30 minutes by taxi from JR Kutchan Station.

half moon lake

The charm of Lake Hangetsu

Lake Hangetsu, located at the foot of Mt. Yotei, is a natural lake enveloped in tranquility.

• Trekking : On the trail around the lake, you can encounter historic plants and animals such as squirrels.
• Beauty of the four seasons : In spring, as the snow melts, the plants change color, allowing you to enjoy different scenery with each season.
• Experience nature : Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the sounds of birds and the abundant nature.

It's a great spot to relax and enjoy nature.

access

Car : 20 minutes from Niseko Station, 2.5 hours from New Chitose Airport. Parking: Free (near the lake).
Public transport : 20 minutes by taxi from JR Niseko Station. Or take a bus from JR Kutchan Station to the lake area. We recommend taking a taxi.

Niseko Hot Springs

Niseko Onsenkyo is a relaxing hot spring where you can enjoy hot springs that flow directly from the source, surrounded by beautiful nature throughout the four seasons. The open-air baths where you can soak while watching the snowy scenery are especially popular with tourists from overseas.

The hot springs are also known for their skin-beautifying properties, allowing you to enjoy both relaxation and a uniquely Japanese experience at the same time.

access

Car: About 15-30 minutes from Niseko Station, about 2.5 hours from New Chitose Airport. Parking: Free parking available at each hot spring area.
Public transport: 20 minutes by taxi from JR Kutchan Station or Niseko Station. Some hot spring facilities operate shuttle buses.

Niseko Goshiki Hot Springs

Located at an altitude of 750m, this secret hot spring is characterized by its acidic sulfur springs. It is popular for its gentle waters on the skin, and you can enjoy untouched nature and beautiful seasonal scenery.

At night, the starry sky spreads out before you, making this the perfect hot spring resort to refresh yourself after hiking or other outdoor activities.

access

Car: About 45 minutes from Niseko Station, about 2.5 hours from New Chitose Airport. Parking: Free parking available at the hot spring facilities.
Public transport: 40 minutes by taxi from JR Kutchan Station. Access is limited, so renting a car is recommended.

Niseko Hanazono Resort

Niseko Hanazono Hills is an all-season resort where you can enjoy the world's best powder snow in winter and a variety of activities such as rafting, golfing, and cycling in summer.

Surrounded by lush nature and clear streams, it is popular with foreign tourists as a spot where you can enjoy active activities in any season.

access

By car: Approximately 20 minutes from Niseko Station, approximately 2.5 hours from New Chitose Airport.
Parking: Free parking available.
Public transport: 15 minutes by taxi from JR Kutchan Station. Shuttle buses also available from major hotels in winter.

Makkari Village

Makkari Village is a charming village where beautiful nature and culture come together. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of activities available, such as mountain climbing, trekking, and camping, making it a great place to refresh yourself in nature.

The following spots are especially recommended for foreign tourists.

Makkari River Park

Makkari River Park is a beautiful park with greenery and a river surface, and has walking paths, a monument commemorating the 100th anniversary of the park's founding, "Sho", and a memorial statue of Takashi Hosokawa. The scenery, which won the Minister of Construction Award in 1995, is a must-see.

Mt. Yotei Natural Park

Yotei Nature Park is an area where natural forests and model forests blend together at the foot of Mt. Yotei, where you can enjoy seasonal cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. You may also encounter wild animals such as Hokkaido squirrels and Ezo red foxes.

Makkari Arboretum

Makkari Arboretum is a forest where about 80 kinds of trees are planted, and in spring, flowers such as Corydalis ambiguus bloom in abundance. At the Forest Learning Exhibition Hall, you can experience crafts and learn about forests.

access

By car: About 30 minutes from Niseko Station, about 2 hours from New Chitose Airport. Parking: Free parking is available at each tourist spot.

Public transport: Take a bus from JR Kutchan Station to Makkari Village Hall (approximately 1 hour). From there, you can take a taxi or walk to each tourist spot.

Access information to Niseko

Bus : Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by resort bus from New Chitose Airport.

Train : Approximately 30 minutes by taxi or bus from JR Kutchan Station.

Car rental:
・Estimated price: Approximately 14,500 to 29,000 yen per day (insurance fees and optional fees are not included).
・English-compatible car navigation systems: Standard equipment in many vehicles.
・4WD vehicles: Snow-capable vehicles are standard. Vehicles with ski racks are also available.
・Reservations and procedures: An international driver's license is required. Bookings can be made at New Chitose Airport or rental car companies in Niseko.
-Winter driving advice: Some companies offer driving support and advice for those who are not familiar with snowy roads.

Enjoy the ultimate skiing experience in Niseko! Enjoy the charm of the four seasons

Niseko is one of the world's leading ski resorts, offering light, silky powder snow and a variety of ski runs.

The facility has an environment that can satisfy everyone from beginners to advanced users, and there is ample English support, making it a safe place for overseas travelers.

Furthermore, it is popular as an all-season resort where you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and rafting in the summer, as well as relaxing hot spring experiences.

Niseko is a tourist destination where you can enjoy the seasonal nature and local cuisine, and discover new charms every time you visit. If you are looking for a memorable experience, why not visit Niseko at least once?