NIGHT SKIING AT NISEKO SKI RESORT
Is there Night Skiing at Niseko?
Many people who are familiar with Niseko Ski Resort are aware that night skiing is a major attraction. Other visitors are surprised to learn upon arrival that they can get on their skis after dinner and enjoy some fresh tracks! With lifts running from 08:30 in the morning until 19:00, there is the opportunity for everyone to get on the mountain. With fantastic powder snow that can fall throughout the day or night, many people are drawn to the slopes twice in one day! Night skiing is a must-try activity for any visitor to the area, and with operations currently in full swing, we provide more information below.
Is Skiing at Night Hard?
You might be surprised to learn that actually, the opposite is true. Skiing at night is a totally different experience to skiing during the day. It’s hard to explain exactly why, but the floodlights, empty slopes and still atmosphere create a truly magical experience. There is no need to worry about visibility, as the powerful floodlights do an excellent job of lighting up all areas. Tree skiing is even possible and the lighting actually highlights the terrain, making choosing your line even easier.
Temperatures tend to sit a little colder around -10 degrees, but with wind speeds generally dropping at night, it is hard to tell the difference. You’ll hear many people say it somehow feels colder skiing during the day! The low temperatures also help to suck moisture out of the air and more importantly the snow, which keeps it super light and fluffy.
It is not uncommon for there to be a lull in the number of skiers and snowboarders from late afternoon to early evening. This means that during a heavy snowfall, some areas can reset in a short period of time, leaving untracked deep powder for those venturing out early in the evening. No lift lines means plenty of laps before the lifts close!
Treading New Ground
Hirafu night skiing has always been popular, but the resort also took a big step this season. Night skiing at Niseko is now more extensive than ever, with all 4 Niseko United resorts offering night skiing and the Hanazono Symphony Gondola opening for night skiing for the first time for the 2022-23 Japan ski season. Easily accessible night skiing for guests staying in any of Niseko’s accommodation options really sets the area aside from other ski areas, and is sure to be a big hit when international tourism returns.
No matter your ability level, there is terrain for everyone. The Hanazono Gondola and Annupuri Jumbo Quad chair provide long, wide-open slopes, whereas the Center Four lift in Hirafu provides a mixture of groomed slopes and gladed tree runs. Those feeling more adventurous can head to the steeper pitches on offer at SuperRidge. Skiers and snowboarders of all ages are guaranteed a good time!
When Can you Ski at Night in Niseko?
Weather and snow depending, night skiing operates from mid-December right through until the last half of March. If you can resist the lure of the world famous food and drink on offer in the resort for just a few hours, we recommend you get yourself on the mountain for at least one evening! You can also check out our Niseko Snow Report for daily updates.
For more information on night skiing and the Niseko area in general, get in touch with Japan Ski Experience today. It is never too early to start planning your next Japan ski trip!
