Grand Hirafu
The largest resort in Niseko. Hirafu village at its base is packed with places to stay, restaurants and shops.
Niseko Travel Guide | Skiing, Onsen, Summer Activities and Getting There from the Airport
Niseko is famous worldwide for its powder snow. In winter, four connected ski resorts form Niseko United; in summer, rafting and golf take over; and all year round there are onsen and views of Mt. Yotei. Here is a guide to the areas, what to do in each season, recommended spots, and how to get there from New Chitose Airport.
What Niseko is like
Niseko is a resort area in the Shiribeshi region of southwestern Hokkaido. Surrounded by Mt. Niseko Annupuri and Mt. Yotei, known as "Ezo Fuji," it offers mountain views from almost everywhere.
In winter, skiers and snowboarders come from all over the world for the light powder snow, often called "JaPow." With many international visitors and residents, there is a wide choice of restaurants and places to stay. From spring to autumn, Niseko becomes an outdoor resort for rafting, golf, cycling and hiking.
Niseko in winter: four ski resorts
Four ski resorts sit side by side on the slopes of Mt. Niseko Annupuri and connect near the top. Together they are called Niseko United, and the All Mountain Pass lets you ski all four with a single ticket (depending on lift operations).
Niseko HANAZONO
Known for wide powder bowls, tree runs and a terrain park with one of the largest kickers in Hokkaido.
Read our HANAZONO ski guide →Niseko Village
A resort combining hotels, slopes and a golf course. Popular with families.
Niseko Annupuri
A relaxed resort where you ski facing Mt. Yotei.
Read our Annupuri ski guide →Besides these four, there is also the small, quiet Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort. Check each resort's official website for season dates and lift tickets.
Recommended spots in Niseko
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Walking around HirafuWinter
Restaurants, bars and shops line the streets at the base of Grand Hirafu. In winter the streets are snowy and icy, so shoes with good grip help. See our winter gear guide for tips.
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Mt. Yotei (Ezo Fuji)Views
Niseko's symbol, called "Ezo Fuji" for its beautifully symmetrical shape. You can see it from all over the area year-round. In summer, climbing, hiking and visiting the springs at its base are popular.
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Mt. Niseko AnnupuriMountain
The core mountain of Niseko United. Skiers come for the powder in winter, and in summer a gondola takes you high up the mountain for walks and views.
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Rafting on the Shiribetsu RiverSummer
Niseko's signature summer activity, with gentle courses for first-timers and faster courses for thrill seekers. Canoe and SUP tours are also available.
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Niseko Konbu Onsen and Goshiki OnsenOnsen
Hot springs at the foot of Mt. Niseko Annupuri, including Konbu Onsen along a mountain stream and Goshiki Onsen with its milky water. Perfect after skiing or hiking, and some offer day bathing.
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Roadside Station Niseko View PlazaFood
A roadside station on Route 5 facing Mt. Yotei, with local vegetables, dairy products and wine. A great stop on a drive.
Staying in Niseko
Each area of Niseko has a different feel: lively Hirafu, luxury hotels in HANAZONO, the all-in-one resort of Niseko Village, and quieter Annupuri. Choosing the area that suits your trip makes it easier to find a place to stay.
Getting to Niseko from New Chitose Airport and Sapporo
Niseko is about 110 km from New Chitose Airport, or about 2 hours by car. In winter, snowy roads and blizzards can make the trip longer.
Resort bus
For travelers on a budget. Buses run on a fixed timetable, and you may need to get from the stop to your accommodation.
Rental car
Gives you freedom, but winter mountain passes and snowstorms can be demanding if you are not used to them.
Private transfer
No transfers from the arrivals lobby to your door. Ideal for groups with skis and big luggage.
MUTOTAXI transfer fares (one way, per vehicle)
- New Chitose Airport → Niseko
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Regular¥35,500Winter¥41,500Includes highway tolls and airport parking
- Sapporo city → Niseko
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Regular¥35,000Winter¥41,000
Winter fares apply from December 1 to March 31. Fares are per vehicle, using a Toyota Alphard Executive Lounge (up to 6 passengers). Payment is made in the car when you board.
Niseko's sights are spread over a wide area and buses are limited. Our driver, Muto, meets you in the arrivals lobby and takes you to your accommodation in Niseko.
Book a transfer to Niseko Book your winter Niseko transfer earlyFAQ
When is the best time to visit Niseko?
For skiing, December to March, especially January and February when snowfall is heaviest. Summer is best for rafting, golf and hiking, and autumn for fall colors.
Can I enjoy Niseko without skiing?
Yes. There are onsen, snowshoeing and snowmobiling, views of Mt. Yotei, and plenty of food made with local ingredients.
Can I ski all four resorts with one lift ticket?
Yes, with the All Mountain Pass. The resorts connect near the top of the mountain, but on some days lift operations may not allow you to travel between them.
How long does it take from New Chitose Airport to Niseko?
About 2 hours by car. In winter, snowy roads and weather can make it longer.
Is it OK to drive a rental car in winter?
Roads to Niseko are snowy and icy in winter, and some routes cross mountain passes. If you are not used to driving on snow, a transfer or bus is a safer choice.