Skiing at Niseko Annupuri:
a lodge 1 minute from the gondola, and how to get there

Niseko Annupuri lets you ski with Mt. Yotei right in front of you. This guide covers what the slopes are like, Annupuri Lodge (our pick for skiers), and how to get there from New Chitose Airport, with transfer fares.

About 2 hours by car from New Chitose Airport Night skiing available Part of Niseko United

What Niseko Annupuri is like

Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area spreads across the western slopes of Mt. Niseko Annupuri. It is one of the four Niseko United resorts, alongside Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and HANAZONO, and with the all-mountain pass you can ski across to the other areas via the upper mountain.

It doesn't have the crowds and bustle of Hirafu's village, and that is exactly its appeal: a calmer place to ski at your own pace. Mt. Yotei faces you from many of the runs, and the views on a clear day are something special.

A new gondola is on the way

The current Annupuri Gondola is scheduled to be replaced by a new 10-person gondola for the 2028–29 season. Capacity will roughly double, and it will handle wind better, so fewer closures are expected.

Season dates, lift prices and night skiing hours change every year. Check the official Niseko Annupuri Ski Area website for the latest information.

A day of skiing when you stay at Annupuri

Staying right at the base means almost no time lost getting to the lifts. A day could look like this.

  1. Breakfast at the lodgeWith breakfast included, there's no need to head out to find food.
  2. First gondola of the dayA short walk from the lodge, ready for the snow that fell overnight.
  3. Back to the lodge for a breakThe slopes are so close you can easily pop back at lunchtime.
  4. A few more runs under the lightsDuring the season, the lifts keep running into the evening.
  5. Dinner at the lodge barEnjoy food and drinks without going out into the snow.
  6. Warm up in an onsenSoak away the day at a hot spring within walking distance.

Our pick for skiers: Annupuri Lodge

A lodge MUTOTAXI regularly serves

Annupuri Lodge is a small lodge about a 1-minute walk from the main gondola at Niseko Annupuri. Each of its 8 guest rooms is designed differently. The staff all love winter sports and are happy to share local tips. MUTOTAXI often drives guests to and from the lodge.

I've stayed here myself. The price is reasonable, breakfast is included, and the slopes are right outside the door. The staff were very kind, too. I can confidently recommend it to anyone who wants to make the most of their ski days.

Muto, MUTOTAXI driver
  • About a 1-minute walk to the gondola, right at the base of the ski area
  • Reasonably priced, with breakfast included for all guests, so you can eat and head straight out
  • An equipment room for skis and boots, plus a heated drying room for your gear
  • A bar and restaurant in the lodge, serving izakaya-style lunch and dinner made with local ingredients
  • Help arranging rentals, lift passes, lessons and backcountry guides
  • A hot spring you can visit about a 6-minute walk away

See Annupuri Lodge details and reviews

Facilities and services may change. Please check with the lodge before booking.

Getting to Annupuri from New Chitose Airport and Sapporo

Annupuri is about 110 km from New Chitose Airport, roughly 2 hours by car. In winter the roads are snowy, so the trip can take longer.

Resort bus

For keeping costs down. Buses run on a fixed timetable, and you may need to transfer or walk from the bus stop.

Rental car

Total freedom, but driving mountain passes in snow and blizzards is hard if you're not used to it.

Private taxi

From the arrivals area to your lodge with no transfers. Ideal for groups with skis and lots of luggage.

MUTOTAXI transfer fares (one way, per vehicle)

New Chitose Airport → Niseko Annupuri
Regular season¥35,500
Winter¥41,500
Highway tolls and airport parking included
Sapporo city → Niseko Annupuri
Regular season¥35,000
Winter¥41,000

Fares are per vehicle, so the cost per person drops when you share. Vehicle: Toyota Alphard Executive Lounge (up to 6 passengers). Payment is made in the car at the time of your ride.

Your driver, Muto, will meet you in the airport arrivals area and take you to the door of your lodge in Annupuri.

Book a transfer Book your winter Niseko transfer early

Frequently asked questions

Who is Annupuri best suited for, compared with Grand Hirafu?
Annupuri is not a busy village packed with restaurants and hotels like Hirafu, which makes it a good fit for skiers who want to focus on the slopes in a relaxed setting. Many runs face Mt. Yotei, and the gondola takes you up near the summit. With a Niseko United all-mountain pass, you can also ski over to the Hirafu side via the upper mountain (depending on conditions).
Is there night skiing?
Yes, night skiing runs in the late afternoon and evening during the season. Dates and hours change every year, so please check the official Niseko Annupuri Ski Area website for the latest information.
How long does it take from New Chitose Airport to Annupuri?
About 2 hours by car. In winter, snowy roads and weather can make it take longer. MUTOTAXI meets you in the arrivals area at New Chitose Airport and drives you to the door of your lodge.
Can you carry skis and snowboards?
Yes. We pick you up in a Toyota Alphard Executive Lounge. How much fits depends on the number of passengers and luggage, so please tell us how many skis or boards and suitcases you have when you book.
When do I pay?
Payment is made in the car at the time of your ride. Your booking is confirmed once Muto sends you a booking confirmation message.

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