Niseko

Japan’s Premier Ski Resort

The Ski Resort of Niseko is located in the far North of Japan known as Hokkaido (100km SW of Sapporo Chitose Airport and about 2.5hrs by bus transfer).  Niseko is regarded as one of Japan’s top ski resorts with a reputation for having some of the world’s best snow and daily powder is expected rather than hoped for.  The resort has an abundance of unique and different terrain scattered through its four interconnected ski areas:  Hirafu (closest to the main accommodation hub); Niseko Village (formerly Higashiyama); Hanazono; and An’nupuri. The ski resort of Moiwa is also interconnected via the sidecountry, but a separate lift ticket is required for this resort.

Hirafu is the largest of the Niseko villages, located about 8 km from the town of Kutchan.  Hirafu is where the majority of travellers stay with easy access to a range of restaurants, bars, clubs and other services all within a short stroll or free shuttle bus.  If you want regular soft fresh powder mixed with a rich Japanese culture and good nightlife, then Niseko is the place for you.  Japanese Izakaya, cosy bars, world class restaurants, night clubs, pubs and Karaoke provide endless entertainment.

For larger groups, self-contained accommodation including townhouses and apartments give you plenty of room to spread out after a long day skiing. For those looking for a quieter option, ski in ski out hotels are available with breakfast daily included.

Niseko, Rusutsu and Furano are located on the sub-arctic northern island of Hokkaido. The island receives an enormous amount of snow each season from the Siberian desert storm systems that march across the Sea of Japan from Russia with amazing regularity from November to March, making your Japan ski holiday package bound for a breathtaking snow adventure.

Snowscene has access to expert mountain guides for Niseko backcountry touring and with add ons like Heli Ski, Cat Ski and Snowmobiling (all at exceptional value in Japan), the powder capital of Niseko is the ultimate location for these exclusive extras.