Winter
The Niseko region is a powder snow paradise for up to five months a year. The slopes of this pocket of Hokkaido draw powder hounds from around the globe from December to as late as May each year.
Thanks to prevailing northwesterly winds passing over the frigid Sea of Japan, Hokkaido receives up to 14 meters of the fluffiest snow imaginable each season, with the best conditions from January to February.
The main ski area of Niseko United is made up of four interlinked ski resorts — Annupuri, Niseko Village, Grand Hirafu and Hanazono — all accessible with a single lift pass.
But the powder pleasures don’t end there. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the area’s scenic forests, lakes and out-of-the-way terrain by snowmobile, on the back of a horse or by strapping on snowshoes.
The options for winter fun and excitement continue with snow rafting, snow tubing and treetop challenges at the area’s year-round adventure park.
Spa & Winter Adventure
Day 1
Stay at Nikko Style Niseko Hanazono, visit Niseko Adventure Center for indoor climbing, enjoy lunch at Lupica, relax with a spa treatment with Mahora, and end the day with an onsen at Onsen at the hotel.
Day 2
Try spring ziplining and rafting at Hanazono before having lunch at Tsubara Tsubara, a cozy soup curry spot.
The long, well-maintained courses, with views of Fuji lookalike Mount Yotei, and opportunities for backcountry adventure offer thrills for skiers and snowboarders of all levels and all ages.
Wellness & Relaxation in Winter
Day 1
Enjoy afternoon tea at Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, ski at Hanazono and Grand Hirafu, dine at the renowed Kamimura, and shop at Hirafu area.
Day 2
Start with a spa session at Aya Niseko, join a yoga class at Setsu Niseko, have lunch at Snow Castle, and return home refreshed.
Classic Ski & Onsen Experience
Day 1
Stay at a ski-in, ski-out resort, ski all day at Niseko United, have lunch at Sanshoku at Tokyu Niseko Grand Hirafu, enjoy guided backcountry skiing with Whiteroom, relax at Niseko Goshiki onsen, and get takeaway from Ezo Seafoods.
Day 2
Ski in the morning, have lunch at Green Farm Café, take a final onsen at Yukichichibu Onsen, and depart, already planning the next trip.