The Niseko ski resort is one of the premier Japanese skiing destinations on the island of Hokkaido. It has an abundance of fluffy, featherlight snow and the world-famous prefecture attracts skiers from across the globe who come to carve up the legendary Niseko United megaresort. Chairlifts run from December to April, but the biggest powder occurs in February and March (avoid major holidays if you can).

Prior preparation is essential to making the most out of Niseko, which is why we’ve created this in-depth guide. From accommodation options to après-ski tipples and the essential transport info, here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect ski holiday in Niseko.

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    Where to stay in Niseko?

    Which of the resort villages of Niseko is right for you?

    Where to stay in Niseko?
    • Keluarga
    • Rombongan

    Four resort villages lie scattered around Niseko United, each appealing to a different type of traveller (and skier).

    • Hirafu
    • Niseko Village
    • Hanazono
    • Annapuri

    Alpinists looking for après-ski drinks and top-end gastronomy should stay in Hirafu, home to a high concentration of restaurants and notorious nightlife. First-time visitors and families might prefer Niseko Village, especially when seeking convenient ski-in- or ski-out lodging (there’s plenty available).

    Tiny Hanazono is the best bet for experienced skiers seeking adrenaline-pumping tree runs. For an authentic Japanese alpine experience, base yourself in Annapuri. Brimming with traditional soba stalls and charming log-built ryokan (inns), the tranquil village offers an enticing taste of local mountain life.

  • 2

    How to rent skis and purchase a lift pass in Niseko?

    Good to know for first-timers

    How to rent skis and purchase a lift pass in Niseko?

    While it’s possible to grab a ski pass on arrival in Niseko, purchasing in-person is more expensive, and you’ll have to queue. Save time and money by buying your lift pass online. Prices vary depending on the season, the number of days (or hours) you’ll ski, and when you book – reserve your ticket in spring a year early to really save. A standard Niseko United pass gives you access to all the snowfields within the mega-resort.

    The Ikon and Mountain Collective passes offer free ski days at numerous big-name resorts worldwide, including Niseko United. Frequent skiers and globetrotting snow bums can get superb value from these annual global passes.  

    Experienced skiers may want to lug their gear to Niseko despite the hefty airline luggage fees. If you’re planning to travel domestically before or after Niseko, companies like Takuhaibin can ship ski equipment around Japan.

    Most Niseko hotels offer ski hire at reasonable rates. Rental companies like Niseko Sports and Rythem stock a wide range of equipment and provide a complimentary pick-up/drop-off service.

  • 3

    Niseko skiing for beginners

    Excellent beginner slopes

    Niseko skiing for beginners

    Home to some of the deepest fresh powder on earth, Niseko is a brilliant base for beginner skiers. An abundance of soft snow reduces bruising during those inevitable stacks, and there is plenty of novice-friendly runs at each resort.

  • 4

    Niseko skiing for intermediates

    Where to find the best red runs in Niseko?

    Niseko skiing for intermediates

    Annapuri is the top option for intermediate skiers thanks to its broad range of wide, well-groomed runs. That said, the other 3 resorts also have an impressive selection of intermediate runs.

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    Niseko skiing for advanced skiers

    Snow parks and black runs in Niseko

    Niseko skiing for advanced skiers

    Seasoned skiers will find the best white-knuckle thrills at Niseko Village and Hirafu, while Hanazono has a slew of death-defying tree runs. Off-piste skiing is available throughout the resort – Niseko is a world-renowned backcountry destination.

  • 6

    What to do besides skiing and snowboarding in Niseko?

    Winter sports and activities in Niseko

    What to do besides skiing and snowboarding in Niseko?
    • Petualangan
    • Keluarga
    • Rombongan

    Need a day to rest your weary legs? There are plenty of other things to do around Niseko.

    The Arishima Takeo Memorial Museum pays homage to the famous Japanese novelist of the same name. Pop into the Ogawarashu Memorial Museum to see artworks from local painters or the SOMOZA Gallery for landscape works. Check out Niseko Kaributo for an authentic Shinto shrine. Niseko View Plaza offers a fabulous photo opp, while the Niseko Meisui Kanrosui fountain is a picturesque spot to refill your bottle with spring water.

    In summer, Hokkaido Lion Adventure does rafting and other sports. Alternatively, the Annupuri Gondola Station leads to a scenic hiking summit trail.

    Geothermal-fed onsen (hot springs) lie scattered throughout Niseko, perfect for soothing those ski-worn muscles. Indoor and outdoor baths are available.

  • 7

    Dining and restaurants in Niseko

    Where to eat in Niseko?

    Dining and restaurants in Niseko
    • Makanan

    Thanks to Hakkaido’s fertile volcanic soil, it has a bounty of top-notch produce. This has led Niseko to become a sought-after foodie destination. The top gastronomic institutions book out months in advance. Local specialities like yakitori (skewered meat) and shabu-shabu (hot pot) are worth sinking your teeth into.

    Local
    For a bowl of steamy noodles in a traditional log cabin, try Rakuichi Soba.

    Luxury
    An Dining
    is an excellent option for high-end izakaya-style Hokkaido cuisine.

    Iconic
    For something more casual, Prativo does a hearty all-you-can-eat set menu on a lush dairy farm. As a strict paddock-to-fork establishment, all ingredients are sourced on-site or from local providers. 

  • 8

    Niseko shopping

    Where to shop in Niseko

    Niseko shopping
    • Shopper

    Although Niseko isn’t a major shopping destination, there are plenty of places to pick up winter clothing, skiing gear, and cute souvenirs.

    Gallery Katachi offers a broad range of authentic Japanese artworks, from paintings to pottery and colourful embroideries. Some of the artists work on-site and will happily explain the production process. For authentic souvenirs, make a beeline for Kutchan, where you’ll find several mom-and-pop-style shops on the main street.

    Rhythm Snowsports and Rhythm Summit stock a dizzying array of ski and snowboard gear, including all your backcountry essentials. The Odin Place mall has the best selection of snowboarding equipment – it has a large Burton Snowboards store.

  • 9

    Niseko nightlife

    Where to enjoy après ski in Niseko?

    Niseko nightlife
    • Hiburan malam

    Hirafu has the liveliest ensemble of foreigner-friendly drinking holes, from low-key après-ski venues to boisterous late-night bars.

    Part ramen restaurant, part buzzing pub, Tamashii is a cosy spot to hang out after an action-packed day on the snow. Hit Bar Gyu+ for smooth vinyl tunes and tasty cocktails with a mesmerising alpine view. Although a tad on the pricey side, TOSHIRO’S BAR is famous for its amicable ambience and excellent whisky collection—try the smoked old-fashioned.

    For a more traditional tipple, Niseko Shuzo is a famous barnyard sake brewery in Kutchan. The charming semi-rural venue does daytime brewery tours and tasting sessions. Sample some of the different labels and grab a bottle of the good stuff to take home. 

  • 10

    Fukidashi Park

    A serene spot with scenic falls and mountain views

    Fukidashi Park
    • Budget
    • Keluarga
    • Rombongan
    • Foto

    Fukidashi Park is a serene Japanese garden full of ponds, streams, and waterfalls. Based at the foot of Mount Yotei, its spring-fed water is crystal-clear and safe to drink. Look for the trickling PVC pipes to refill your bottle with fresh mountain water. 

    A short but picturesque walking trail meanders through the verdant park, perfect for a romantic stroll. Keep an eye out for the 33 statues of the Goddess of Mercy, which perch among moss-covered stones. The park looks prettiest in spring as it transforms into an oasis of green. Nonetheless, it’s still worth a visit in winter when it’s covered in a blanket of snow.

    Lokasi: 45 Kawanishi, Kyogoku, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0131, Japan

    Peta
  • 11

    How to get to Niseko

    Factual travel information

    How to get to Niseko

    Hokkaido’s main aviation hub is the New Chitose Airport, which has direct flights to numerous domestic and international destinations. The most cost-effective way to travel onto Niseko is by bus, which takes about 2.5 hours. Most hotels can recommend a service that will drop you off right near your door.

    It’s best to base yourself in the village you plan to spend the most time in. While it’s easy to connect between ski resorts when high up on the mountain, travelling between the villages is a bit of a chore. Rental cars are available at the airport and Sapporo for travellers exploring the region in-depth. Taxi services operate in each alpine village.

Harry Stewart | Penulis yang Berkontribusi