Niseko
Niseko is the largest of Hokkaido ski areas with FOUR interlinked first-class resorts; Hirafu, Hanazono, Annupuri and Higashiyama
The skiing in Niseko is generally uncrowded due to the low population on the island, plus they have over 1000m vertical feet with great powder runs and tree skiing.
Location
Niseko, located on the island of Hokkaido, Northern Japan, is a year round destination for both Japanese and international holiday makers. Originally an Onsen (natural hot spa) resort, popular within Japan but unknown otherwise, the Niseko area, and Hirafu in particular, is now famous throughout Japan and around the world for its exceptional powder snow.
How to get there
| From Chitose Airport | : 2-3 hours by bus |
| From Sapporo | : 2-3 hours by bus |
| From Tokyo | : 3 hours by plane |
| From Osaka | : 4 hours by plane |
For advice on flights to the New Chitose Airport (Sapporo) and getting to Hokkaido.
Commonly you’ll need to fly into New Chitose Airport (Sapporo) on a domestic flight from Tokyo or Osaka.
Bus transfer is the most convenient and economical way to get to Niseko from Sapporo New-Chitose airport or Sapporo city.
The bus to Niseko takes about 2.5 -3 hours depending on road conditions and your drop off point.
| Mountain Statistics | |
| Ski season | : December to April |
| Mountain Elevation | : 1309 meters |
| Snowfall average | : 12 meters |
| Longest Run | : 5.6 km |
| Steepest Run | : 37 Degrees |
| Numbers of Courses | : 61 |
| Number of lifts | : 27 chair lifts, 3 Gondolas 27 |
| Terrain | |
| Beginner | : 30% |
| Intermediate | : 40% |
| Advanced | : 30% |
Shuttle buses
Niseko is really well geared up for tourists so there are very well established shuttle bus systems to get around and between the different villages. A tourist map in English that outlines the various shuttle bus routes and timetables is readily available throughout Niseko or at your accommodation.
Restaurants & Nightlife
Niseko has an abundance of restaurants, bars, shops and tours available.
Culture
Onsens are a must when visiting Niseko, where you can relax with the locals and take in the serenity. Day tours to Sapporo, including the Annual Ice Festival, the seaside city of Otaru, or some cultural activities within Hirafu allows you to have a broad holiday experience.