Niseko
Niseko is the largest of Hokkaido ski areas with 4 interlinked first-class resorts: Hirafu, Hanazono, Annupuri and Higashiyama.
The skiing in Niseko is generally uncrowded due to the low population on the island, plus they have over 1000m vertical feet with great powder runs and tree skiing.
Location
Niseko, located on the island of Hokkaido, Northern Japan, is a year round destination for both Japanese and international holiday makers. Originally an Onsen (natural hot spa) resort, popular within Japan but unknown otherwise, the Niseko area, and Hirafu in particular, is now famous throughout Japan and around the world for its exceptional powder snow.
| How to get there | |
| From Chitose Airport: | 2-3 hours by bus |
| From Sapporo: | 2-3 hours by bus |
| From Tokyo: | 4.30 hours flight & bus |
| From Osaka: | 5 hours flight & bus |
Commonly you will need to fly into New Chitose Airport (Sapporo) or arrive from Tokyo or Osaka on a domestic flight. Bus transfer is the most convenient and economical way to get to Niseko from Sapporo New-Chitose Airport or Sapporo City. The bus to Niseko takes about 2.5 -3 hours depending on road conditions and your drop off point.
| Mountain Statistics | ||
| Ski Season: | December to April | Niseko Trail Map Click link to PDF file |
| Mountain Elevation: | 1309 meters |  |
| Snowfall Average: | 12 meters | |
| Longest Run: | 5.6 km | |
| Steepest Run: | 37 Degrees | |
| Numbers of Courses: | 61 | |
| Number of Lifts: | 27 chairlifts, 3 Gondolas | |
| Terrain: | Beginner: 30%, Intermediate: 40%, Advanced: 30% | |
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Shuttle buses
Niseko is really well geared up for tourists so there are very well established shuttle bus systems to get around and between the different villages. A tourist map in English that outlines the various shuttle bus routes and timetables is readily available throughout Niseko or at your accommodation.
Restaurants & Nightlife
Niseko has an abundance of restaurants, bars, shops and tours available. There is a world class dining scene with restaurants to suit all budgets and tastes. Night life in Niseko, even on weekdays, with plenty of live music, hopping pubs and a good collection bars and small clubs with both resident and visiting DJ's and a wide variety of live music most weekends. Restaurants in Niseko average between ¥900 to ¥2,000 per meal and from ¥600 per drink.
Culture
Onsens are a must when visiting Niseko, where you can relax with the locals and take in the serenity. Day tours to Sapporo, including the Annual Ice Festival, the seaside city of Otaru, or some cultural activities within Hirafu allows you to have a broad holiday experience.
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