Annupuri Resort
Laid-back vibe with wide pistes and great access to south-facing bowls. Popular with powder hunters when gates open.
The Four Niseko Areas
All connect over Mt. Annupuri and are covered by the Niseko United pass. Ski between them when lifts and weather permit.
Niseko Village Resort
Home to several big hotels and long scenic cruisers. Good intermediate terrain and sidecountry links to Annupuri.
Grand Hirafu Resort
Largest base with the most runs, nightlife, and dining. Great lift network and direct access to the peak gate (conditions permitting).
Hanazono Resort
Modern lifts, terrain parks, tree-skiing, and guided cat/snowmobile activities. Family facilities and beginner zones are excellent.
Passes & Tickets
- Niseko United Pass: Access to all four areas and recommended to explore all the resorts.
- Area Passes: Cheaper for staying in one resort.
- Night Skiing: One of Japan’s best—huge floodlit zones in all 4 resorts.
When to Visit
Late October
For those early powder hunters, the resorts open around this time.
Dec–Jan
Deepest, coldest powder. Fewer daylight hours.
Feb
Balanced: storms + longer days. Popular.
Mar
Sunny days, great for families, cheaper stays.
Onsen to Soak
Post-ski bliss around the mountain; expect volcanic minerals and outdoor rotenburo.
- Hotel Niseko Alpen Onsen (Hirafu) – convenient near lifts.
- Hilton/Niseko Village Onsen – large hotel facilities.
- Yugokorotei (Annupuri) – classic local-style baths.
Powder Fuel
Hokkaidō comfort food for cold nights.
- Soup curry, Jingisukan (lamb BBQ), miso ramen.
- Seafood bowls from nearby seaside towns (Otaru/Yoichi).
- Bakery cafés and izakaya lines in Hirafu’s Upper Village.
Getting to Niseko
Fly
Arrive at New Chitose Airport (CTS) near Sapporo. Winter buses run direct to Hirafu/Annupuri (2.5–3 hrs). Rental cars require snow-driving experience.
Rail
JR trains via Otaru to Kutchan Station (closest to Hirafu/Hanazono). Local buses/taxis connect to your hotel.
Shuttles
Inter-resort shuttles run throughout the day between bases. Check last-bus times before après!
Backcountry & Gate System
Niseko’s famous powder often lies beyond the gates. Only enter when gates are open, carry avalanche gear, and check the daily avalanche report.
Ready for deep Hokkaidō powder?
Compare with Hakuba or plan a soak-filled side trip to Otaru/Sapporo.