Niseko Ski Resort

What are the most recommended things to do in Niseko Ski Resort?

Enjoy skiing or snowboarding on the famous powder snow, take part in snowshoeing tours, and relax in a traditional onsen (hot spring). There are also opportunities for snowmobiling, backcountry skiing, and exploring the surrounding landscapes on guided tours.

Introducing Niseko Ski Resort

Niseko Ski Resort is composed of four ski resorts located in the same mountain area: Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Annupuri, Niseko Village, and Niseko Hanazono. It has a total of 63 ski slopes, 30 cable cars, the longest slope is 5.6km, and the total length of the slopes is about 60km. It is currently the largest ski resort in Hokkaido and the best in Japan, and enjoys the reputation of "Ski Kingdom".

Niseko Annupuri International Ski Resort offers 13 slopes with a maximum gradient of 33°, making it a relatively gentle slope. While Niseko offers a more challenging skiing experience, Annupuri is more suitable for beginners and families. As a resort resort, it's ideal for those seeking a leisurely and extended stay. It's one of the more deserted ski resorts in the Niseko area, offering night skiing and woodland skiing.

Niseko Village Ski Resort is a long ski resort located between Hirafu Ski Resort and Annupuri. It features many steep slopes and ungroomed runs, so it's best not to try them without advanced skiing skills. The resort is home to the Hilton Niseko Village and The Green Leaf Niseko Village hotels. Staying there, you'll be connected by cable car to the hotels, making it practically a breeze to catch the fresh snow early in the morning and create your perfect ski run. Starting in the 2016-2017 season, new slopes suitable for beginners were added, along with a new cable car and two magic carpets for children's skiing.

Niseko Grand Hirafu Ski Resort is the largest of Niseko's four major ski resorts, boasting 30 trails! It's sure to keep you occupied all day. It's incredibly popular, so be prepared for huge crowds. There's also a free ride park area, perfect for showing off your skills. Its distinctive feature is the numerous groomed trails that follow the undulating terrain. With a maximum slope of 40 degrees near the summit, it's suitable for advanced skiers, but overall, it's suitable for beginners and intermediate skiers from Japan (whose skiers generally excel here).

Niseko HANAZONO Ski Resort, which translates to "Garden Ski Resort," boasts Niseko's signature powder snow, thanks to its location in an area prone to snowfall. A free shuttle bus connects it to Hirafu Ski Resort. Beginners looking to improve their skills while exploring Niseko's advanced slopes should start here and then move on to Hirafu once they've improved. Overall, this is the perfect ski resort for beginners and beginners.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate monsoon climate; the best time to travel is from late November to early May.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended 1-2 days of play

Tickets

All four ski resorts can purchase a lift ticket for the entire mountain

Peak season:

8-hour ticket: Adults: 6,300 yen/person, Elementary school students (7-12 years old): 3,800 yen/person, Junior high school students (13-15 years old) and seniors (60 years old and above): 4,800 yen/person

One-day ticket: Adults: 7,400 yen/person, Elementary school students (7-12 years old): 4,500 yen/person, Junior high school students (13-15 years old) and seniors (60 years old and above): 5,600 yen/person

2-day ticket: Adults: 13,600 yen/person, Elementary school students (7-12 years old): 8,200 yen/person, Junior high school students (13-15 years old) & seniors (60 years old and above): 10,200 yen/person (3-18 day ticket omitted)

Season Ticket: Adults: 115,600 yen/person, Elementary School Students (7-12 years old): 69,300 yen/person, Junior High School Students (13-15 years old) & Seniors (60 years old and above): 86,700 yen/person

Off-season & end of season:

One-day ticket: Adults: 5100 yen/person, Elementary school students (7-12 years old): 3100 yen/person, Junior high school students (13-15 years old) and seniors (60 years old and above): 3900 yen/person

2-day ticket: Adults: 9,500 yen/person, Elementary school students (7-12 years old): 5,700 yen/person, Junior high school students (13-15 years old) & seniors (60 years old and above): 7,200 yen/person (3-18 day ticket omitted)

Attraction opening hours

8:30-16:30, night skiing time is 16:30-20:00

Most Popular FAQs for Niseko Ski Resort

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Niseko is one of the most renowned ski resorts in Japan, located in Hokkaido. Known for its abundant snowfall, it has grown in international popularity, particularly among skiers and snowboarders. Its high-quality powder snow and breathtaking mountain views make it a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Niseko is located in the northernmost island of Japan, Hokkaido. It is about 2.5 hours by car or bus from New Chitose Airport. You can also reach the resort by train, then transfer to a bus or taxi to the ski area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The resort is open during the winter months, from late November to early April. The best time to visit is typically from December to February for optimal snow conditions.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Lift tickets range from ¥4,000 to ¥8,000 per day depending on the season and area. Tickets can be purchased online or at the resort on the day of your visit.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is recommended to book lift tickets and rentals in advance, especially during peak season (December to February). Booking 1-2 weeks ahead is advisable to avoid long lines.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need at least 2-3 days to explore the main ski areas and enjoy all the resort has to offer, including the onsen, snow activities, and surrounding nature.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see areas include Mount Annupuri for skiing, the Niseko Village for dining and shopping, and the Hirafu area for a lively après-ski scene. Don’t miss the onsens for a relaxing experience after a day on the slopes.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided ski tours and snowshoeing tours are available in English and Japanese. These are great for beginners or those wanting to explore the backcountry with an expert guide.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Good spots include the summit of Mount Annupuri, where you can take panoramic photos of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and the gondola ride from the ski lifts for stunning views of the resort and beyond.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the Hirafu area for beginner slopes, then explore the other ski areas like Annupuri and Niseko Village for more advanced terrain. Make sure to also visit the nearby hot springs after a day of skiing.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night skiing is available and popular during the winter season. Some resorts also offer torchlight skiing experiences and there are occasional light shows at certain lodges.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The resort can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. For fewer crowds, visit mid-week, particularly during the shoulder months of late November and early April.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The resort has multiple restaurants, cafes, and shops. Public restrooms are readily available, and there are rest areas throughout the resort. It’s advisable to stay hydrated, as the cold air can be dry.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Niseko has a range of accessibility features, including gondolas and ski lifts for people with disabilities. The resort is family-friendly with ski schools for children and beginner slopes.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Credit cards and mobile payments (like Suica and Alipay) are widely accepted at most locations within the resort. Cash is still necessary for some smaller shops and food stalls.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several excellent restaurants in the resort, offering everything from casual cafes to high-end dining. Many places serve local Hokkaido cuisine, including ramen, sushi, and fresh seafood.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan-friendly options available, as well as halal food in select restaurants around Niseko.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are many accommodations near the resort, ranging from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Popular options include Hilton Niseko Village, The Green Leaf Niseko Village, and budget options in the Hirafu area.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Other attractions include hot springs in nearby towns like Kutchan, the Shinsen Marsh for nature walks, and the Otaru Canal, which is a short drive away.