Niseko is among Japan’s most famous ski areas. Located in Hokkaido Prefecture, southwest of Sapporo, Mt. Niseko is best known for the deep, powder snow which makes for ideal skiing conditions. Consisting of four interconnected ski resorts (Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village, Annupuri, and Hanazono), Niseko is a popular destination for ski and snowboarders globally, but is currently popular among Australians, New Zealanders and Southeast asian skiers.
From December to early April, Niseko transforms into a snow lover’s paradise. It receives over 14 meters of light, dry powder snow each season, thanks to cold Siberian winds sweeping across the Sea of Japan. The terrain suits everyone from beginners to experts, and night skiing is particularly popular.
Grand Hirafu, Nisoko Village, and Annupuri are the largest of the ski resorts, which cover most of the southeastern half of Mt. Niseko-Annupuri, with Grand Hirafu being the most popular. The three resorts are all joined together at the top of the mountain, enabling guests to ski between the resorts. Shuttle buses connect the three ski resorts at the base of the mountain as well. Hanazoro is a smaller satillite of Grand Hirafu Resort, and is a quieter alternative to Grand Hirafu. All four of these resorts are covered by the Niseko All Mountain Pass. Moiwa Ski Resort stands independent from the rest of the resorts, and is not included in the Niseko All Mountain Pass.
Grand Hirafu is the largest of the ski resorts, with about a dozen ski lifts. The Hirafu township is also the most lively, with restaurants, bars, and other eateries that cater more to the Western tourists who visit.
Niseko Village is the second largest ski resort on the mountain. The township has several hotels, ski lodges, and a few restaurants. While not as international as the Hirafu township, English can still be commonly heard among the skiiers there.
Annupuri resort is more suited to beginner skiers as the trails aren’t as steep as Niseko Village or Grand Hirafu, and also tends to be a bit quiter on the slopes. There is a few lodging nearby, but eatery options are pretty limited.
Lastly, the Moiwa resort is the smallest of the ski resorts on Mt. Niseko-Annupuri. It is not connect to the other resorts, and the Niseko All Mountain Pass isn’t accepted at Moiwa. It is a pretty quiet ski field by comparison, making it ideal for beginners. However, much like annupuri, there is a few lodges, but little to do outside of skiing as Moiwa is more isolated and far smaller.
Ski Passes
Niseko All Mountain Pass
The Niseko All Mountain Pass includes access to all ski lifts and fields at Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village, Annupuri and Hanazono resorts.
Tickets:
| 1-Day Pass | ||
| Regular Season | Shoulder Season | Late Season |
| 12,000 JPY | 8,400 JPY | 6,000 JPY |
Niseko Grand Hirafu Only
There are 13 lifts available to use at the Niseko Grand Hirafu and Hanazono resorts.
Tickets:
| Full Day Pass | Half-Day | Night Skiing |
| 11,000 JPY | 7,800 JPY | 6,000 JPY |
Niseko Village
There are 8 Lifts available at the Niseko Village Resort.
Tickets:
| Full Day Pass |
| 9,700 JPY |
Niseko Annupuri
There are 8 Lifts available at the Niseko Annupuri Resort.
Tickets:
| Full Day Pass | Half Day Pass | Night Skiing |
| 7,000 JPY | 6,000 JPY | 3,300 JPY |
Explore Hokkaido
Top Attractions
Hokkaido Shrine
Popular shrine in Sapporo City
Lake Toya
Caldera lake with scenic views, islands, hot springs, and volcano.
Jigokudani Hell Valley
Steam-filled volcanic valley with sulfur vents, hot springs, and trails
Cape Soya
Japan's northernmost cape
Shirahige Waterfalls
Cascading waterfalls with stunning blue water
Ski Season
- Season: Typically Late November - Early May
- Official Website
Accessing Niseko
The Niseko Ski Area is about a 3-hour bus ride from Sapporo by Bus. Buses run seasonally to Niseko, typically from Late November through to Early May (But change by each operator). Buses stop at the three main ski resorts, and cost 6,000JPY One Way.
Bus Timetables & Online Reservations:
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Where to Stay in Niseko
Ki Niseko
Enjoy comfortable rooms, relax in the on-site onsen bath, and enjoy beautiful views of the nearby Mt. Yotei.
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Niseko Landmark View
Hilton Niseko Village
Internationally celebrated hotel and one of the most premier hotels in the Niseko Ski Area.
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