Niseko
Stunning natural beauty, vast ski fields and a unique township make a holiday in Niseko an adventure worth repeating.
White Season
Niseko is famous as a top ski resort in Japan, thanks in part to its legendary champagne powder. Located in Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, Niseko benefits from Siberian weather streams that consistently deliver ample fresh snow to the area all season long. The area receives an average of 16 meters of the light, dry powder each season and is thus in the top three powder destinations in the world. Mid-winter temperatures are ideal for this snowfall, averaging -5C at the base of the mountain and -15C at the top of the lifts.
The largest ski resort in Hokkaido, Niseko is essentially one mountain, divided into four linked areas: Annepuri, Higashiyama, Hanazono and Grand Hirafu. All-Mountain passes give holders access to 38 lifts and gondolas, over 47 kilometers of regularly groomed runs, several terrain parks and a halfpipe. The groomed terrain contains a balance of beginner (30%), intermediate (43%) and advanced (27%) level runs over 920 vertical meters of lift-accessible terrain. Moreover, and somewhat unique in Japan, Niseko also boasts roughly 37 square kilometers of variable off piste terrain including tree runs and back country.
The Hirafu area also offers night skiing, available 7 nights a week until 9pm. The continual snowfall means that night skiing also affords riders a chance at fresh powder and yet another unforgettable and unique experience unlike any other resort in the world.
Green Season
In the Green Season, Niseko’s abundant beauty is even more stunning. Visitors can hike the ski hill summit (1308 meters) and enjoy amazing panoramic views of the Sea of Japan, the Niseko area, and the iconic Mt Yotei. The Hirafu Gondola also runs during the season allowing easy access to the mountain’s midpoint.
The Niseko area offers a wide range of activities to enjoy the glorious cool evenings and warm sunny days. Rafting, hiking, horseback riding, fishing and world-class golf are all available in the area. Local favorites, including Park Golf, are also great options to try during this season. The Green Season is also a great time to try out some of the area’s many natural hot springs.
Local produce and dairy products become abundant in the Green Season and many local restaurants incorporate these items into their menus. Natural mountain spring water, available throughout the region, adds to the fresh natural taste of the season.
Niseko’s increasing popularity has brought many new businesses, including unique bars and restaurants, into the area. Hirafu Village in particular has become a center for the nightlife buzz while nearby Niseko Town’s adorable train station and main street make for lovely exploring no matter the season.
At LJ Hooker Niseko, we live and breath Niseko all year long. We look forward to sharing all the area has to offer when you are here with us and taking care of your property for you when you have to be away.