Welcome to Asia-Pacific’s winter wonderland, Niseko.
This powder playground located on Japan’s Hokkaido Island is renowned for its fine, powdery snow and, of course, the food. With a ski season that runs from November to April, the story goes that Niseko has been inhabited for more than 4000 years, in the later Jomon period. Like modern visitors, Niseko’s early inhabitants would have taken pleasure in the surrounding scenery and beauty of Mount Yotei – often referred to as the Mount Fuji of Hokkaido.
Today, Niseko is visited by skiers from all over the world who rave about its quality powder snow and four main ski resorts – Grand Hirafu, Annupuri, Hanazono, and Niseko Village. If you prefer to be away from large groups of tourists, you might opt for the quieter Kutchan, Niseko Weiss or Niseko Moiwa. Whether you’re a first-timer or expert skier, there are over 48km of ski runs to enjoy, from Hanazono’s Strawberry Fields to the wide open slopes of Annupuri, exciting backcountry, groomed and off-piste slopes, and the powder-filled back bowls. Wherever you choose to ski, the region benefits from Siberian winds which blanket the area in regular deep and light powder snowfall, boasting a moisture content of only 8%. There is a wide range of accommodations to suit every group size and preference, with plenty of après-ski indulgences to maximise relaxation.
After a long day of winter sports on the mountain, what better way to unwind than to take a dip in an onsen, otherwise known as Japanese hot springs. With high nitrate and bicarbonate sulphur chloride content, the mineral-rich hot springs help relax aching muscles, whilst the ice-cold plunge baths tighten skin and refresh even the most fatigued bodies. Onsens are located in exclusive resorts or as standalone spas which one can visit, with the most famous ones being Yugokorotei, Kanronomori, Iko-Noi-Mura, and Niseko Grand Hotel – the only mixed public onsen in Hirafu, so be prepared to see some flesh.
Last but not least, there’s the food. Hokkaido is renowned for its fresh seafood and dairy. From delicious fresh oysters and scallops at Ezo Seafood, to fresh cream cheesecake at the tiny Cafe If which visitors take back on flights with them. Much like the rest of Japan, dining is another reason to make your way to Niseko.
Don’t discount the summers as the warmer weather is a popular time for hiking, rafting and golf. The region boasts three National Parks and four stunning golf courses, set against the background of Mt. Yotei.
Quick Facts
- Located 50km south-west of Sapporo, Japan’s fifth largest city, on the island of Hokkaido
- Niseko sits by Mount Yotei (a dormant volcano) on Japan’s Northern Hokkaido Island
- Features 4 main resorts: Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu, Niseko Hanazono, Niseko Village, and Niseko Annupuri
- Closest airport to Niseko is New Chitose Airport (CTS)
- Popular for snow sports in the winter, white-water rapids, and golf courses
The Luxe Nomad + Niseko
While skiing might come easy to some, planning a winter holiday does take a lot of time. Which is why TheLuxeNomad.com, Asia-Pacific’s leading luxury villa booking portal, has a team of specialist Trip Curators to personally recommend the best places for you to stay.
With only Niseko’s best properties, ranging from stunning ski-in-ski-out resorts, luxurious penthouse apartments to fabulous family chalets, TheLuxeNomad.com offers a wide selection of hand-picked places to choose from.
Our complimentary concierge is at your service, from booking right up to your trip. We’ll assist you with all ancillary arrangements including the booking of airport transfers, ski passes, lessons and even restaurant reservations.
About Your Stay
It is important to note that Niseko accommodations follow a strict cleaning schedule. In general, there are two types of cleaning services that are provided to each guest’s stay, depending on the number of booked nights. If you would like to add extra cleaning service to your schedule, please let our Concierge team know and we will get back to you on whether or not it can be accommodated.
All accommodations are strictly no-smoking, with prescriptive property regulation. We advise you to take note of this in your booking vouchers before arriving at your accommodation.
Why book with us
- Best rates online
- Complimentary concierge
- Niseko’s leading booking agent