Your Ultimate Guide to Getting Lift Passes at Niseko United

December, 23rd 2025

Niseko United is made up of four individual ski resorts, with a range of different lift passes depending on when and how long you want to ski for. This blog will help make sure you make the most of your time for a smooth ski holiday.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Niseko rider, this is everything you need to know – from where to buy your pass to tips for making the most of your mountain time.

WHICH LIFT PASS SHOULD I BUY?

Niseko United is a combination of 4 resorts: Annupuri, Niseko Village, Grand Hirafu and Hanazono.

At Niseko United, there is a pass for every kind of rider – whether you are here for a day of fun or an extended powder pilgrimage.

Lift passes are an electronic card that you place in your jacket and swipe against a digital scanner gate at the bottom of each lift.

ALL MOUNTAIN PASS

While you can purchase a single resort liftpass*, an All Mountain Pass gives you seamless access to all four interconnected resorts. With over 2000 acres of terrain, world-famous powder snow and endless lines to explore, this pass is your key to the full Niseko experience.

The All Mountain Pass also allows you to hop on the Niseko United shuttle between the resorts free of charge. All-day tickets are valid until the end of night skiing on the final day of the ticket during the night skiing operation period.

MULTI-DAY ALL MOUNTAIN PASS

Save money and maximize time on the mountain. Please note that this pass is valid for consecutive days only and valid until the final day of the ticket.

50-HOUR PASS

A 50-hour pass is only available online and is a great option for longer-stay visitors or riders who don’t plan to be on the mountain every day. It doesn’t need to be used on consecutive days, and can be used at any time throughout the season.

12-POINT PASS

The 12-point pass lets you ski at your own pace. Instead of a time-based ticket, you use points each time you ride a lift – for example one point for beginners’ lifts, and four points for longer lifts and gondolas. It’s a flexible option for beginners, families, or anyone who wants to enjoy the mountain without committing to a full-day pass.

NIGHT SKIING PASS

Night riding is an experience you don’t want to miss when visiting Niseko. Night skiing passes are only available for single resorts, and are cheaper than all-day passes if you only want to ski the night session. Night skiing passes are valid from 4pm until 7pm at Hirafu, Hanazono and Niseko Village, and from 4.30-7.30pm at Annupuri. Check individual resort websites or ask at the resorts’ ticket counter.

* Single resort passes are perfect for beginners, families, or guests staying close to one base area. You can find the link here to book your lessons and rental.

** When you scan a day-pass ticket on the bus, it is counted as one day of use, and a time-based ticket is counted as one hour of use. Check here for more information.

Check out what other non-riding activities for your down day.

WHERE SHOULD I BUY LIFT PASS?

Niseko United offers flexible ways to get your lift pass.

Purchase Online (Recommended)

No matter if you are a powder chaser or a mom with 2 kids, purchasing the liftpass online is quick and convenient and allows you to skip the lines and head straight for the lifts. You will be able to:

Choose your dates in advance
Pick up your pass at any ticket counter
Reload for future visits
Access special online-only deals

Ticket Counters at Each Base Resort

Prefer to buy in person? You can purchase your liftpass at ticket counters located at all four resorts. Staff can help you choose the right pass type, from beginner-friendly options to multi-day all mountain passes.

Order Tickets with Your Concierge

If you are staying at any resort managed accommodations, you can simply book your liftpass with the concierge as well. A simple, stress-free option.

Insider Tips for an Easy-breezy Experience

Buy early during holiday weeks. Passes and pickup lines can get busy. Don’t wait to buy your pass the day you want to go riding. Either order online before your arrival and pick up at any counter, or visit a ticket counter in advance to buy a pass with a later start date.
Check weather and lifts status each morning. Conditions can change quickly in Niseko.
Plan your route ahead of time using the new Niseko United Digital Map to navigate lifts, trails and shuttle routes effortlessly.
Reload your pass online if you are coming back later in the season.
Keep your pass in a separate pocket from your phone to ensure trouble-free scanning.
If you bought your pass online and lose it, you can get it reissued at the ticket counter for ¥3,500 administration fee.

For more information check FAQs here.

Global Pass Options at Niseko United

Ikon Pass

Niseko United is a destination on the Ikon Pass network. Ikon Pass holders can redeem All-Mountain pass for the days your Ikon tier allows. No advance reservation is required. Simply bring your Ikon pass and a photo ID to any lift ticket counter at the four resorts.

Friends & Family of Ikon Pass holders rejoice. A 25% discount on 1-day all mountain pass at Niseko United is available.

Always double check which Ikon tier you have because the number of allowed days at Niseko may vary.

Mountain Collective Pass

Niseko United is a full member resort of the Mountain Collective Pass program. Mountain Collective pass holders receive 2 free All mountain passes and can purchase unlimited additional days at 50% off for that season. There are no blackout days for those two free days. When redeeming at Niseko: bring your Mountain Collective pass confirmation and photo ID to one of the pick-up counters at any of the four base areas (Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village, Annupuri).