Go Backabout niseko
Niseko, located on the island of Hokkaido, 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.
Japan ski season starts from early December and ends till late April. During the snow 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 47kms of groomed slopes across four the linked resorts: Hirafu, Hanazono, An'nupuri and Higashiyama. During the winter season daily weather forecasts and snow depth data will be available on the HT Holidays website.
Niseko has not forgotten its roots, however, and Onsen remain common and popular thoughout the area. The summer months bring pleasantly warm temperatures and many relish the opportunity to escape from the heat of southern Japan and Asia.
Outdoor and adventure activities such as rafting, hiking, fishing and mountain biking are on offer, as well as walking and a number of premier golf courses, for those looking for a more leisurely pace.
niseko-hirafu village
Niseko is now one of the fastest growing ski resorts 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.
A range of specialist shopping and a variety of convenience stores mean that you will not need to travel far out of Hirafu Village. However, a trip to Niseko wouldn't be complete without a visit to some of the fantastic experiences of the greater Niseko area!
niseko, the gateway to japan
Niseko offers an excellent base for experiences throughout the wider peninsula;
Whether it's a drive over the stunning 'Niseko Panoramic Line' with its ancient Alpine Highland Wetlands, volcanic outcrops and wonderful range of hikes, or a visit to exciting Rusutsu or Kiroro Resorts in winter for their diverse terrain and conditions, and in summer for their fantastic family activities, from roller coasters to horse trekking.
For food lovers, a visit to Otaru is a must for it's famed, fresh seafood; make sure you visit during Otaru's renowned Candle Festival, when thousands of candles light the romantic walkway of the towns symbolic canal; a celebration of winter, the towns mixed European cultural routes and it's famous glassware.
Sapporo is bursting with things to do; the world famous 'Snow Festival', delicious food, world class shopping and some of the most exciting nightlife outside of Tokyo. A clean, green, tourist friendly city, a visit in summer should be rewarded by a visit to the 'Sapporo Summer Festival' along the lush, green Odori Park.
Ensure you visit our Gateway to Japan section; offering exclusive tours and deals with our partners both in Niseko and throughout Japan.
access niseko
The closest major city to Niseko is Sapporo; the main airpoirt being New Chitose International Airport. With daily flights to and from all major Asian hubs, Chitose Airport offers excellent transfer options to Niseko by train, bus or private transfer; Hokkaido Tracks Holidays can assist with your transfer requirements:
Click here to learn about our Airport Transfer options
