About Niseko

It is little wonder Niseko is attracting ever-increasing numbers of visitors to its rolling countryside and beautiful ski slopes. The ski resort has come a long way since visitors had to hike the mountain for a day’s skiing and the only accommodation was the chambre-d’hote style offered by the local farmhouses. 100 years later, the resort has seen considerable change and, though the friendliness of the local people and warm hospitality remains, the resort now features a wide range of accommodation, an eclectic selection of restaurants and offers both traditional cultural experiences and modern sporting activities. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Yotei - an active volcano which is so similar to Mt. Fuji it is known as Ezo Fuji - this beautiful region is a feast for the eyes. On a clear day those who climb to the mountain summit have a bird’s eye view of the region and can see both the Japan sea and as far as Lake Toya. In winter, the champagne powder snow and pristine ski slopes attract skiers and snowboarders from all over the world, and in summer visitors are drawn by the wide open countryside, farm-fresh produce and summer sporting activities. The Niseko area is located on the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido and lies 6 km from Kutchan Town, close to Niseko Town (from which the area gets its name), and approximately 120 km from Sapporo and New Chitose Airport. Served by public transport Niseko can be accessed from Sapporo via Otaru or Nakayama Toge, or direct from Chitose Airport.

Niseko - a sensory delight

Hokkaido is not only famous for its winter pleasures, it is also well-known for its fertile land and good food. Fed by crystal clear natural spring water from the Niseko mountains and Mt. Yotei, the Niseko area produces high grade agricultural produce and locally brewed alcohol, and imports fresh seafood from local towns and villages. With ingredients such as these combined with the skills of the local chefs, Niseko is home to some very high-quality restaurants and bars. The sensory delights don’t end there. The Niseko area is also famous for its natural hot springs (onsen) that are specially designed to please the eye and soothe the mind, and contain natural mineral water which is both healing and relaxing.

Niseko - a winter dream

There are four main areas in the Niseko Ski Resort - Annupuri, Higashiyama, Hirafu, and Hanazono, and from November to April a prevailing wind blows in from the Russian mainland blanketing the region in deep powder snow. The weather patterns that form over west Hokkaido and the Sea of Japan cause snow to fall regularly in this region and that is why this area has some of the island’s highest snowfall. The numerous ski runs - over 48km in total - can accommodate skiers of any level, from beginner to professional. With wide open runs, gladed areas, groomed and off-piste slopes, not to mention the adventure of the backcountry - Niseko has something for everyone. Visitors who purchase the Niseko All Mountain lift pass can make use of all of the area’s 38 lifts and easily explore all four areas. The longest run that Niseko offers is a challenging 5.6km. The thing that attracts so many people to Niseko is the quality of the snow which, because it has a moisture content of only 8%, is extremely light and dry and makes for wonderful skiing. It is not uncommon to experience a minimum of knee-deep powder. Additionally, the resort stretches far around the mountain, providing extremely favorable light conditions from morning to dusk; then, when the sun sets, night skiing courses are well-lit for many hours. Visitors to the area in winter are not confined to skiing and snowboarding. Please visit the Winter Activities page to see an in-depth account of other activities available.

Niseko - a summer paradise

Niseko should not be overlooked as a summer holiday destination. Less humid than the rest of Japan, the region attracts a large number of people from the mainland. With three National Parks in and around the area, there is more than enough to satisfy even the long-term visitor. Whether looking for action and adventure or the opportunity to quietly explore this beautiful Japanese region, a wide range of activities is available. Visitors can lace up their hiking shoes and trek through unspoiled countryside in search of some of Hokkaido’s famed inhabitants such as the elusive ‘momonga’ (flying squirrel), look for some of the island’s unique plant life, rent a mountain bike, spend a day fishing, tour the summer backcountry or explore the region’s rivers by canoe or raft. Golf in Niseko has been a popular attraction for a number of years and the courses are beautifully located. There are also many indoor activities and it’s worth visiting the museums and breweries or taking part in hands-on activities such as cooking or craftwork. Many people are keen to discover more about their host country and participate in Japanese tea-ceremonies, karate or try the Japanese taiko drums. Those looking for more of an adrenaline rush should try some of the exciting outdoor activities offered by the various outdoor adventure centres. The area is well-known for rafting - especially during the early spring when the rivers are swollen by meltwater, mountain biking and paragliding. Many operators have qualified guides who speak English and have an in-depth knowledge of the area. If you don’t have access to you own vehicle and wish to explore further afield then try some of the tours offered by local operators. Some of the more interesting tours could take you sea-kayaking on the Japan Sea (Shakotan), to historic towns, onsen and, though slightly further away, to museums which teach visitors about Hokkiado’s indigenous people - the Ainu. Please see the Summer Activities and other pages to learn more about the region’s summer offerings.