First-time visitor’s guide to Niseko

If you’re thinking about your first ski trip to Japan, then you’ve probably heard a lot about the amazing snow that Niseko is world famous for. Everyone (and we mean everyone!) has had a friend, family member or work colleague visit Niseko and no doubt heard rave reviews.

The obvious question is whether it is possible for a single resort to live up to the hype that surrounds Niseko. Well, we’re here it to break it down and share what you need to know if you are planning to visit the powder paradise of the North for the first time.

First up, is the hype justified?

Niseko has an awful lot going for it, the snow is amazing, it has a vibrant après ski and restaurant scene and there are literally hundreds of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. The mountain is large, and the Niseko United pass gives access to every kind of terrain imaginable as well as tree-riding and backcountry options. There are good transport links around the different ski resorts, so it is relatively easy to get around.

Yes, the hype is definitely justified, especially if your idea of the perfect ski trip involves foot after foot of champagne powder and if a busy nightlife is critical to your evenings out. But we will say that Niseko isn’t for everyone.

Things to consider if you are visiting Niseko for the first time.

Location, location, location

Niseko is made up of four interconnected ski resorts: Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village, and Annupuri. When people talk about the bars and restaurants in Niseko, they are usually referring to Hirafu Village. There are obviously restaurants and bars in the other resorts, but Hirafu is the epicentre of nightlife in Niseko.

There are shuttle buses between the resorts which are included in your pass. It’s worth knowing that the resort bases are a fair distance from each other, and this can be a factor in terms of getting around at night. If it’s a shots, schnapps and sushi that you’re after then basing yourself in Hirafu means you’ll be right at home in Niseko’s après scene.

When considering where to stay, it’s not just accommodation style and budget that are key. It’s also important to consider the type of terrain you prefer riding, as well as the ability of your group – each resort has a different range of terrain and is better suited to different skill levels.

Global resort

Niseko was ‘discovered’ by Aussies and Kiwis in the early 2000s and since then has become a bucket-list ski destination for powder hounds from all around the world. The attraction of Niseko has resulted in an influx of people and businesses focused on catering to international visitors.

This has resulted in Niseko developing a very international vibe. You certainly won’t need to worry about any language issues and while there are heaps of Japanese restaurants in Niseko, you will also be able to enjoy food options from pretty much everywhere else in the world too. If you’re after a very traditional Japanese experience, then Niseko may not be for you.

Powder for days

Niseko has an average number of 5-6 snow days a week during January and February (although there are always exceptions) and this is why people flock to the mountain each year. Obviously, that doesn’t leave many bluebird days so if you prefer your days on the mountain to require sunblock then you might want to consider one of the other 500 odd resorts on offer in Japan.

These sorts of amazing powder conditions are becoming scarcer around the world, and it isn’t a surprise that more and more people want to visit Niseko to take advantage of what is generally considered to be the best snow in the world.

There is plenty of terrain for everyone in Niseko, especially if you consider the backcountry, but there can be bottlenecks on the mountain - and waits for chairs and gondolas are often comparable with the Aussie ski fields. This is particularly true of Hirafu given its popularity.

If you love riding or skiing in powder (let’s be real, who doesn’t!?), then Niseko is an absolute blast.

Getting there

Nieko is best accessed directly from New Chitose Airport in Sapporo, from there, it's a scenic two to three-hour drive to Niseko (transfers can be arranged by The Snow Concierge). While there are trains that run from Sapporo, this isn’t something we recommend as they can be quite busy (standing room only), especially during the Snow Festival.

Niseko is a world-class snow destination with amazing snow conditions, a broad range of terrain, an excellent après scene and every type of accommodation imaginable, all of which adds up to a great option for visitors who want to experience some of the best snow in the world while staying in and experiencing a truly global ski resort.