Niseko

Background

Niseko is formally the Niseko Tourism Zone, made up of the three towns of Kutchan, Niseko and Rankoshi in Hokkaido's Shiribeshi Subprefecture, at the foot of Mount Niseko Annupuri. Its powder snow is of exceptional quality and has earned the nickname "Japow". Within Niseko United, the four main resorts of Annupuri, Higashiyama, Hirafu and Hanazono are linked one after another, with 38 gondolas and lifts, 61 runs and 12 terrain parks. In March 2008 Niseko entered a poll of the world's top ten ski resorts for the first time, ranking 6th. In summer you can play golf and tennis, or go fishing, horseback riding, cycling and rafting. Kutchan has been a sister city of St. Moritz in Switzerland since 1964. Beyond the slopes, Niseko is also known for its hot springs, varied dining and whisky.

Local customs

• Skiing powder snow at the resorts in winter, entering backcountry areas through designated gates
• golf, cycling, rafting and horseback riding in summer
• soaking in hot springs and tasting local food.

Travel tips

• The Hirafu area has the greatest concentration of lodgings, restaurants, bars and shops. In ski season, book accommodation and lift tickets early
• prices and opening arrangements are subject to official announcements.
• Most visitors fly into New Chitose Airport and continue by JR, bus or rental car
• the journey is long, so allow plenty of time. The Hokkaido Shinkansen section to Kutchan is still under construction, and its opening date is subject to official announcements. Winter is ski season, with each resort's opening dates subject to official announcements
• summers are cool and good for outdoor activities and escaping the heat.