Niseko Information
Niseko, located on the island of Hokkaido, Northern Japan, is a year round destination for both Japanese and international holiday makers.
Originally an Onsen (natural hot spa) resort, popular within Japan but unknown otherwise, the Niseko area, and Hirafu in particular, is now famous throughout Japan and around the world for its exceptional powder snow.
Niseko is one of the fastest growing ski destinations in the world, and at the heart of Niseko is Hirafu, the largest village in the area. With its unique Japanese character and mix of international influences, Hirafu offers an experience not found anywhere else in the world.
Niseko Winter
Come for the snow...
Niseko's ski season starts from late November and ends in early May, around the Japanese Golden Week holiday. During the winter season, the resort is covered in a blanket of snow, as skiers and snowboarders enjoy an annual snowfall of up to 15 metres and the 47 kms of groomed slopes across four linked resorts: Hirafu, Hanazono, Annupuri and Niseko Village (Higashiyama). A range of off-mountain activities are available including: snowmobiling, kids snow parks, toboganning, snowshoeing and more.
...and stay for the food!
Japan is recognised around the world for the quality and variety of food on offer at surprisingly reasonable prices and Niseko is no exception. With a range of restaurants from small hole-in-the-wall izakaya (Japanese pub-style food) to michelin-star restaurants and world-famous soba, there is something for everyone. The region is famous throughout Japan for the quality and freshness of the locally-grown ingredients and the talented chefs in Niseko, and Hirafu in particular, will blow your mind with their creativity and delicious dishes.
Have a look at our restaurant listings page for more information.
Niseko Summer
Niseko's secret...
The Hokkaido summer offers temperate weather from June through to September and Niseko offers the perfect base to experience South Western Hokkaido area, with a range of activities to keep you occupied including: cycling, rafting, hiking, golf, touring the local area and much more as well as wide range of cuisine and fresh produce.
While winter sees a large influx of guests from around the world, summer is still more of a local affair with most guests from within Japan or Asia. The village slows down and you can enjoy the smells of BBQs, lazy days in the sun and simply stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Niseko has developed into a year-round resort and summer sees regular festivals and sporting events, from the professional level down to fun days for kids and the family.