March, 26th 2019
Deep winter is now behind us and Niseko is in the midst of spring skiing, so if you’re looking to hit the slopes this season your time is running out. Lift operations will end at Niseko Village and Hanazono on April 7, but there’s still another month or so left for Annupuri and Hirafu who will keep limited operations until 6 May (weather depending).
If a last minute trip is not on the cards, then why not turn your planning to next winter? As always you can expect lots of snow. This year was an average year snow-wise and we had an unbelievable amount of snow.
Early bird bookings for season 2019-20 are already open – taking advantage of early bird deals means you’ll not only save yourself some cash with accommodation discounts, but you’ll also get the best pick of accommodation, which can book out quickly for peak holiday seasons. See specials at the bottom of this blog.
When to visit
Not sure when is the best time to visit Niseko? Well this is going to depend on a few things, such as your budget, tolerance of crowds and preferences for weather and snowfall amounts. Here is a basic guide to the peak and off-peak periods:
Late November to mid-December
December 20 to January 5
January 5 to Chinese New Year (late January to early February)
10 days around Chinese New Year
Early to mid-February to end of February
All of March!
April to early May (close of resort)
Find out more about the peak and off-peak periods across the Niseko winter each season to help you decide.
What to do
The obvious answer for what to do in Niseko is skiing and snowboarding, of course! Being renowned for being one of the powder snow capitals of the world, Niseko is famed for its amazing skiing and snowboarding runs. But for those who want to try something new and different, there are so many more activities to be done. Find a (not exhaustive!) list of fun things to try while you’re in Niseko right here.
Where to dine
Niseko is home to some amazing dining experiences so if you’re in town in peak seasons and are keen to try some out it’s a good idea to book in advance, especially if you’re travelling in a larger group. The top restaurants can often book out well ahead of time so the earlier you get in the better. You may need to provide a credit card number or deposit to secure your reservation and some restaurants will charge a cancellation fee in the event of a no-show or cancellation without notice. Check with the restaurants for their deposits and cancellation policies. If your accommodation has a concierge service they may be able to assist with these bookings.
How to ski and snowboard
Ski and boarding lessons, particularly group lessons, can book out during peak periods so if you know you’ll need these, book in advance. Check out a bit more on the Niseko Ski schools here.
Whilst rental equipment, such as skis & snowboards, boots, helmets, clothing etc, doesn’t tend to book out during peak times, if you want to secure exactly what you want then book ahead. This can also make it easier to collect on arrival – most rental places will allow you to collect your pre-booked equipment from 3pm the day before your rental starts, which saves you time collecting gear from the store. You should bring your own goggles and gloves (or pick some up from the retail stores in town) because these generally can’t be rented.
There are plenty of rental stores around Niseko so no matter where you’re staying you’ll be able to find one close by.
Niseko Sports – two locations in Hirafu and one in Hanazono
Niseko Village – two rental counters, NV Gondola station and Greenleaf Hotel
Niseko Annupuri – Rental counter located inside Nook Annupuri
Niseko Grand Hirafu – two locations, Hirafu Gondola Station shop and .Base Ski Centre
Where to stay
We hope this has given you a good insight into when you want to make your trip to Niseko so now it’s time to get booking! If you want to get yourself some early-bird deals, Vacation Niseko have some excellent offers, which can save you up to 30% off! Some of these offers end soon so don’t delay! Check them out here.
How Much Did It Snow In Niseko In Winter 2023/24?
Photo by @alexgerni The simple answer is – a lot! It wasn't an above-average season by Niseko standards, but Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu re...
27 April 2024
Goodbye Quad Lift “Center 4” & Hello To A New Gondola
At the Final Day’s Event of Ace Quad Lift #2 Center 4 after the lottery event Japan’s oldest quadlift – the Ace Quad Lift #2 Center 4 – ended its ...
27 April 2024
Niseko Fan Interview: Why Do You Come Back Year After Year?
Niseko is one of those places where one visit is never enough. Many people who come once end up coming back again and again. We asked a couple fro...
29 March 2024
Niseko’s Late Spring: Ski Until May 6th, Enjoy Cherry Blossoms, and Go Rafting!
Days are getting warmer and the weather clearer in Niseko now that we are in the spring season. We have over a month left in Niseko’s ski season,...
29 March 2024
Epic Savings, Epic Skiing: Discover Niseko’s Beautiful Spring
The peak powder season has come to an end, which means that our epic spring season has begun. Niseko’s spring is not to be missed with temperatur...
27 February 2024
Can You Find These Iconic Landmarks Across Niseko United?
Spring is the perfect time to explore the four Niseko United ski resorts, and while you're at it, take plenty of Instagram-worthy scenic shots. G...
27 February 2024
Get Ready for the Ultimate Spring Ski Experience in Niseko
While Niseko is in the middle of peak winter now, its milder yet equally captivating spring season is just around the corner. Spring in Niseko...
25 January 2024
Introducing You To My Niseko Village with Ski Instructor Satoshi-Sensei
Satoshi Nakagawa, originally from Sapporo City, is a ski instructor at Niseko Village Snow School (NVSS). This is his 21st year as an instructor,...
25 January 2024
Introducing You To My Grand HIRAFU with Ski Instructor Hideaki-Sensei
Hideaki Imaizumi, originally from Iwanai Town close to Niseko, is the head of school at Niseko Tokyu Grand HIRAFU Ski School. He explains when he...
25 January 2024
Introducing You To My Hanazono with Ski Instructor Shintaro-Sensei
Shintaro Kawauchi, originally from Osaka, is a ski instructor at Niseko International Snowsports School (NISS ). This is his 18th season as an in...
29 December 2023
Introducing You To My Annupuri with Ski/Board Instructor Wataru-Sensei
Wataru Kasai, originally from Yokohama in Kanagawa Prefecture, is a ski and snowboard instructor at Niseko Annupuri Ski & Snowboard School (N...
29 December 2023
Take A Ski Break! Adventure & Luxury Off The Ski Slopes
While skiing and snowboarding is at the top of the list on Niseko's go-to winter activities, there's a whole world of unique experiences waiting ...
29 December 2023
Niseko United Dining Guide For Winter 2023-24
One of Niseko’s biggest draw cards is its dining scene – from Michelin-starred restaurants to cosy, family-owned eateries, this winter wonderland...
28 November 2023
Unmissable December Events in Niseko: Christmas Celebrations to Epic Countdowns
December is one of the most festive and exciting months to be in Niseko. It marks the beginning of winter, offers a true white Christmas, and fea...
28 November 2023
Almost One Month Until Niseko United Opens – This Is What To Expect
The countdown has begun! There’s only about one month remaining until Niseko’s ski resorts open their doors for another epic snowy season. For...
30 October 2023
We’ve Seen The First Snow in Niseko For Winter 2023/24
Mt Annupuri, Photo: Glen Claydon Photography Anticipation for the coming winter is building with the first snow falling at village level in l...
30 October 2023
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
Copyright © 2019 Niseko United.日本語