12 Best Things To Do In Niseko

Soaking your muscles while watching the snow fall around you is something not to be missed! Several Niseko hot-springs are on offer, from the conveniently located Alpen Hotel in Hirafu Village, to the popular Goshiki onsen; a classic traditional onsen set at the foot of Mt Annupuri, with stunning views of the surrounding area. For those missing the famous Yukoro Onsen in lower Hirafu, which sadly closed its doors in 2018, Yugokorotei and Iroha in Annupuri both represent excellent alternatives. Both have stunning outdoor baths surrounded with snow covered rocks as well as a traditional feel to rival that of Yukoro. No matter where you stay in the area, there will be Niseko onsens available for you to visit. With prices ranging from 500 to 1,200 yen per visit, this is an activity you can enjoy every day!

Since the 2021-22 ski season, all 4 resort areas in the Niseko United area offer night skiing until 7pm. With these new openings, Niseko now offers some of the most extensive night skiing of anywhere in the world. Experience powder snow under the floodlights, truly one of the most magical things to do in Niseko. With less people on the slopes and regular snowfall throughout the day, this is the perfect time to find some deep powder all to yourselves! Lift passes are valid throughout the day into the evening, leaving you free to choose when you hit the slopes.

Whether you need someone to take care of your children while you’re on the slope, or whether you’re looking for family fun activities to share, Hanazono has something for you. The Niseko Kids Club is able to accommodate children anywhere from 12 months up to 6 years, and the internationally friendly environment is the perfect place for your child to enjoy their day. A wide variety of other activities are available, from snow shoe tours, snow rafting and snowmobiling.

With regular snowfall through a large portion of the season, powder can often be found on the side of groomed runs. This makes the resort great for less experienced skiers and snowboarders, who are still finding their feet in deep snow. For the more adventurous among us, there are specially monitored Niseko gates. These access out of bounds areas, with more advanced terrain and often unbelievable snow. Gates are monitored by Ski Patrol and may or may not be open depending on the weather conditions. Lastly, the Niseko backcountry areas provide the ultimate powder skiing experience for those looking for the steepest, deepest and untracked terrain. Several operators provide guiding services around the Niseko backcountry, from lift-accessed terrain in the resorts, to more remote areas including the famous Mt Yotei.

Whether you are looking for a refined dining experience, or a relaxed evening with the locals, Niseko has restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets. Popular choices include Wild Bills Niseko, with a relaxed atmosphere and delicious locally inspired dishes, as well as The Barn Niseko, providing an elegant and intimate dining experience. Staples such as Italian style pizza, burgers and modern cafes provide safe options for those with children, but Japanese Izakaya style restaurants such as Abucha are also family friendly and offer a wide selection of Japanese and international dishes.

With over 42km of runs available, including long, cruisy groomers to steeper, powder-filled gullies, Rusutsu Resort caters to all ability levels. With less infrastructure in the surrounding area compared to Niseko, the resort can be a lot quieter, and with stunning views of Mt Yotei, and on a clear day, as far as Lake Toya, it is well worth a visit. Rusutsu day trip packages are available from Niseko and include return transportation and a one-day lift pass. Get in touch with Japan Ski Experience staff today to find out about day trips or stays in Rusutsu.

Sample locally inspired cocktails at the famous Fridge Bar Niseko, a staple of the Niseko Nightlife scene. Whether you’re looking for an intimate experience with your partner, or a lively party, Niseko has you covered. Several bars are open for apres drinks and run long into the night, with events and international DJs often scheduled. During special holiday periods, such as Christmas/New Year and Chinese New Year, there are also scheduled cultural events that shouldn’t be missed. Wrap up warm and enjoy the fantastic fireworks displays or even traditional Japanese Taiko drumming!

For our favourite groomers, head over to Annupuri where wide open pistes with immaculately groomed snow await.

Snowmobile tours provide a thrilling adventure through forests and pastures, experiencing panoramic Niseko views that you would not get from the resort.

Otaru Snow Light Path Festival is far lesser known than the Sapporo Snow Festival offering a more intimate and spiritual experience. It is also far closer to Niseko resort, making it a superb alternative for those not keen on the trek to Sapporo.

Jumps, half-pipes and more are built throughout the season, increasing in size as the snow depth builds. Beginners and intermediates can head to the jib park near the base of Hanazono for low speed jibs, rails and beginner jumps.