NISEKO SKI RESORT
Over the past 25 years Niseko ski resort has grown into the most famous in Japan owing to its status as a powder paradise for skiers and snowboarders in search of the best snow conditions in the world. The combination of incredible deep powder snow, terrain for beginners through to advanced riders, stunning accommodation, atmospheric buzz, and countless village amenities are among the many reasons to pick Niseko for your stay.
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Niseko United Ski Resorts
What is commonly referred to as Niseko ski resort is actually a collection of four separate ski areas on the slopes of Mt. Annupuri. As shown on the Niseko United trail map, these are Hanazono, Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village and Annupuri, which together form Niseko United. Each area has its own character, village atmosphere and accommodation style, making it important to choose the right location to stay based on your preferences. There is no need to limit yourself to one area, however, as all four ski areas are covered by the same All Mountain lift pass and are connected by upper mountain lifts and regular bus services at village level.
In addition to excellent skiing, Niseko United offers a wide range of winter activities and village amenities. From off-piste terrain suited to lower-intermediate through to expert skiers and snowboarders, to snowshoeing, tubing, catskiing and snowmobiling, there is plenty to do both on and off the mountain. Each village also has its own selection of shops, cafés, restaurants and bars, ranging from relaxed local eateries to high-end dining, making Niseko an enjoyable place to stay throughout the winter season.
To the western side of Mt. Annupuri is Niseko Moiwa, a smaller and quieter ski area that is popular with those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere while still enjoying the same high-quality powder snow. The combination of consistent snow conditions, varied terrain and distinct villages makes Niseko one of the most appealing places to base yourself for skiing in Japan.
If you are heading up the mountain today, you can check the Niseko United website for live updates on lift status and operating conditions.
Niseko Hanazono Resort
The most easterly of the Niseko United resorts, two new lifts, including the Symphony Gondola, plus new restaurants and accommodation at the base of the ski lifts mean Hanazono is one of the most exciting areas to ski. Great beginner and intermediate runs are offered while the Hanazono backcountry gates offer superb access to steep and deep powder for advanced skiers and snowboarders. Hanazono 308 offers Niseko’s largest range of family activities, the and now also offers night skiing.
| 2025-26 Season | November 29th – April 12th* |
| Snowfall | 15 metres+ |
| Elevation | 1,043 metres |
| Base | 308 metres |
| Vertical | 732 metres |
| Park | Yes |
| Lifts | 1 Gondola / 4 Lifts |
| Terrain | 22% Beginner / 66% Intermediate / 12% Expert |
| Best For | Park, families, backcountry powder |
| Trail Map | Niseko Hanazono Trail Map |
| Lift Passes | Niseko United Lift Pass, Ikon Pass |
| Lift Status | Current Hanazono Lift Operation |
| Official Site | https://hanazononiseko.com/en |
* Season dates provided here are subject to change as resort opening and closing information may be updated.
NISEKO HANAZONO ACCOMMODATIONNiseko Grand Hirafu Resort
Grand Hirafu is the largest Niseko ski resort with a huge range of accommodation located in Hirafu Village, restaurants, retail outlets, supermarkets and bars. If that isn’t enough, Grand Hirafu allows you to experience the exhilarating wonder of fresh powder snow under lights with arguably the world’s best and most extensive night skiing. While most Niseko resorts require a traverse at the top of the mountain to ski from one to the other, you can access Hanazono from the top of Hirafu’s Swinging Monkey chair lift, making it easy for intermediates to ski between the two resorts.
| 2025-26 Season | November 29th – May 6th* |
| Snowfall | 15 metres+ |
| Elevation | 1,200 metres |
| Base | 260 metres |
| Vertical | 940 metres |
| Park | No (available at Hanazono) |
| Lifts | 1 Gondola / 12 Lifts |
| Terrain | 30% Beginner / 38% Intermediate / 32% Expert |
| Best For | Biggest ski area, access Hirafu, night skiing |
| Trail Map | Niseko Grand Hirafu Trail Map |
| Lift Passes | Niseko United Lift Pass, Ikon Pass |
| Lift Status | Current Grand Hirafu Lift Operation |
| Official Site | https://www.grand-hirafu.jp |
* Season dates provided here are subject to change as resort opening and closing information may be updated.
HIRAFU VILLAGE ACCOMMODATIONNiseko Village Resort
Niseko Village is located between Annupuri and Grand Hirafu ski resorts and offers a variety of groomed runs for all abilities, and some of the local’s favourite off piste terrain, especially since the Mizuno no Sawa area was opened up to visitors. With some of Niseko’s top ski in ski out accommodation options and large luxury hotels located at its base, Niseko Village also offers family-oriented activities, from snowmobiling and snow rafting to snowshoe tours and reindeer sled rides, and recently opened up more gentle terrain closer to the base of the mountain for beginners.
| 2025-26 Season | November 29th – April 5th* |
| Snowfall | 15 metres+ |
| Elevation | 1,170 metres |
| Base | 280 metres |
| Vertical | 890 metres |
| Park | No |
| Lifts | 3 Gondolas / 8 Lifts |
| Terrain | 36% Beginner / 32% Intermediate / 32% Expert |
| Best For | Ski in ski out, families |
| Trail Map | Niseko Village Trail Map |
| Lift Passes | Niseko United Lift Pass, Ikon Pass |
| Lift Status | Current Niseko Village Lift Operation |
| Official Site | https://niseko-village.com |
* Season dates provided here are subject to change as resort opening and closing information may be updated.
NISEKO VILLAGE ACCOMMODATIONNiseko Annupuri Resort
Annupuri Ski Area is the westernmost Niseko ski resort and a favourite of many visitors due to it’s long, open pistes, which are suitable for all levels of winter sports enthusiasts. Beginners and intermediates will love cruising down the high quality groomers, while easy access to the famous Annupuri powder bowls makes the resort a favourite among those seeking the best of Niseko’s deep powder. Annupuri tends to be the quietest of the 4 Niseko resorts, making it a great place to head for first tracks!
| 2025-26 Season | November 29th – May 6th* |
| Snowfall | 15 metres+ |
| Elevation | 1,156 metres |
| Base | 400 metres |
| Vertical | 756 metres |
| Park | No |
| Lifts | 1 Gondola / 6 Lifts |
| Terrain | 30% Beginner / 50% Intermediate / 20% Expert |
| Best For | Groomers, backcountry & sidecountry powder |
| Trail Map | Niseko Annupuri Trail Map |
| Lift Passes | Niseko United Lift Pass, Ikon Pass |
| Lift Status | Current Niseko Annupuri Lift Operation |
| Official Site | https://annupuri.info |
* Season dates provided here are subject to change as resort opening and closing information may be updated.
NISEKO ANNUPURI ACCOMMODATIONWhy Stay in Niseko
Niseko is the most well-known of Japan’s ski resorts, largely due to the quality and consistency of its powder snow, its accessible terrain for beginner, intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders, and the lively village atmosphere of its main hub, Hirafu. For skiers deciding where to base themselves in Japan, Hokkaido resorts offer the highest likelihood of regular snowfall. While mainland resorts such as Hakuba can deliver excellent powder on the right days, Hokkaido typically enjoys more frequent snow cycles. During peak months such as January and February, fresh snow in Niseko is common, which is why it is widely regarded as one of the world’s premier destinations for powder skiing. For a month-by-month breakdown, see our Japan Ski Season Guide.
Niseko’s snow reliability, terrain variety and resort infrastructure make it an excellent base for both short visits and longer stays. Some skiers choose Niseko for a few nights as part of a wider Hokkaido itinerary, while others stay for weeks at a time to explore Niseko United and surrounding resorts such as Moiwa, Rusutsu, Kiroro and Sapporo Teine. Japan Ski Experience specialises in Niseko accommodation and can help you find the right place to stay whether you are visiting for five nights or planning a longer stay.
Despite its location on Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido, Niseko is easy to reach via regular transfers from New Chitose Airport in Sapporo and connections through Tokyo. You can find detailed information in our Getting to Niseko guide. One of Niseko’s major strengths is the breadth and quality of its accommodation, with a wide range of lodges, hotels and chalets across Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village and Annupuri. Our local Niseko team live and work in the area and know the villages and properties first hand, allowing us to recommend the best accommodation options for your dates, group size and preferences, including access to early booking deals where available.
What’s New in Niseko
Niseko Accommodation
Luxury New Apartment Complexes
Hirafu Village has seen an explosion of new Niseko accommodation over the past couple of years, especially luxury apartment complexes with the highest standards of facilities seen in Niseko to date. If brand new, five star self-contained properties appeal, then you will love Sansui Niseko, Setsu Niseko, Niseko Kyo, Yamakei Residences and Shinka Niseko.
Niseko Lifts & Courses
Hanazono Symphony Gondola & Hanazono 1 Lift
The first season of the pandemic was the first season of Hanazono’s Symphony Gondola and new Hanazono 1 Lift. The lifts not only improve existing infrastructure, but open up new terrain, providing new access to Juicy Fruit ski course (formerly part of Stairway to Heaven) and the addition of a brand new course, Colly’s Folly.
Niseko Restaurants
Afuri Ramen
Niseko’s development as a world class ski area can be seen in its growing range of exceptional dining experiences. New places to try include AFURI Niseko, a popular Tokyo ramen and dumpling chain which infuses its broth with Yuzu. Check out our full Niseko restaurant guide for the best places to dine.
NISEKO STAYS
If you’re planning to stay in Niseko this winter, you’re in the right place. Japan Ski Experience are independent Niseko accommodation specialists with over 15 years of local experience, helping skiers find and book the right lodge, hotel or chalet for their dates and group. Every enquiry is handled personally, with clear recommendations and accommodation options you can book online. We can also assist with transfers and selected resort services to support your stay, and we charge no more than booking direct. Get in touch today to see the best accommodation options and seasonal offers available in Niseko.
GET A NISEKO ACCOMMODATION QUOTEEXCLUSIVE VOUCHER
Don’t Miss Out!
Register your Interest for 2026-27 and Receive a ¥10,000 Voucher
2026-27 accommodation bookings will open in the Spring. Register your interest now and we will be in touch as soon as bookings open with early bird discounts. Your ¥10,000 voucher can be used for any 2026-27 accommodation booking.