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 from Hawaii, a Japanese professional snowboarder, and an Australian family based in Hong Kong why they keep coming back to Niseko and for some tips on getting the most out of this winter wonderland.

Leah Warshawski & Todd Soliday – Filmmaker couple based in Hawaii

How long have you been coming to Niseko?

We’ve been coming to Niseko for the last six years, except for during Covid shutdowns. (Leah) I actually lived/worked in Japan (Tokyo/Osaka/Kobe) when I was younger and during college, but just started coming to Niseko for snowboarding six years ago. Each year our trip seems to get longer… this year we stayed for a whole month!

Why do you always come back to Niseko?

That’s an easy answer: the SNOW! We’ve been to other resorts around the US and the snow in Niseko is better and more dependable than anywhere else we’ve been. Sure, we also come for the food, the culture and the people…but the perfect snow keeps us coming back every year.

What’s the first thing you like to do when you arrive back each time?

Every year when we arrive in Niseko we like to eat Japanese breakfast and go to the onsen. It takes a few days to get acclimated to the time change so we spend a few days relaxing and enjoying healthy food and onsen. There is a local bakery we like to go to with fresh bread as well, and then we start prepping all of our gear for snowboarding!

What are some Niseko ski or travel tips you want to share with others?

• Stay as long as you can! It’s tough to do everything in a short amount of time, so we recommend booking at least 10 days to make sure you can maximise the trip.
• Keep yourself healthy and in shape for big powder days by going to the onsen every day, your body will thank you!
• Make sure to get an international driver’s permit before you arrive in Japan, and be sure to book a rental vehicle early.
• Hire local guides. Always.
• Book your transport to/from the airport well ahead of time – everything gets booked up quickly in the winter.
• Leave some time in your trip without a plan – it’s fun to play it by ear and discover new things without a plan.
• Load Google Translate onto your phone in case you get stuck with translations.
• Be KIND. Being a nice person when you travel goes a long way – everyone appreciates a kind traveller!

Tell us your favourite…

Ski Resort: We like Hanazono on a powder day!
Onsen: Setsu Niseko Onsen and Goshiki Onsen
Restaurants: NISEKO A-Nabeya, Guzu Guzu Bakery & Cafe, Karabina

Keijiro Oka – Japanese Professional Snowboarder based in Kyoto, Japan

How long have you been coming to Niseko?

I’ve been coming to Niseko since I was in junior high school. Initially, I came with my family, but later on, I started coming to Niseko by myself to ski, and as a result I’ve been coming here every winter for about 15 years.

Why do you always come back to Niseko?

Compared to mainland Japan, Niseko has a longer winter and powder season. The mountains here are more mellow compared to those in Hakuba, offering many spots that are safer. That’s why I believe many people find it easy to enjoy the powder in a relaxed and comfortable manner.

In the past, many of my friends would gather in Niseko, making it a fun destination where everyone was together. The current Niseko is very different from when there were a lot of Japanese people, but I feel it’s full of energy.

Being able to choose from various types of hot springs within a 15-minute drive is also very appealing. I love Mt Yotei for its beauty and how its expression changes every day. Additionally, the local ingredients, like water and rice, are delicious, making cooking in Niseko delightful.

What’s the first thing you like to do when you arrive back each time?

I go to Takahashi Dairy Farm (Milk Kobo) for a soft serve ice cream. Its refreshing flavour is the best.

What are some Niseko ski or travel tips you want to share with others?

Rather than cramming various activities into a short period, I feel that the charm of Niseko is best experienced through a long-term stay. I want you to enjoy the changing expressions of Mt. Yotei and the other attractions of Niseko slowly and without rush, one by one.

Tell us your favourite…

Ski Resort: Niseko Village
Onsen: Goshiki Onsen
Restaurant: ICARO

Chan Family – Australian family based in Hong Kong

Photo: Glen Claydon

How long have you been coming to Niseko?

This is our seventh trip to Niseko after we were introduced to the resort by friends of ours. We typically spend a minimum of two weeks up to a month each visit.

Why do you always come back to Niseko?

Our family’s love for snowboarding and the quality and consistency of the snow keeps us coming back to Niseko. Beyond that, Niseko is well developed and has a slew of dining options across different price points. Having this variety makes Niseko such a great place. Niseko is also easy to get to from Sapporo and its proximity to Kutchan only widens its appeal.

What’s the first thing you like to do when you arrive back each time?

As a family, our first order of business is usually to take a drive to the local supermarkets (Hirafu188, MaxValu, Lucky, Seicomart) to load up on groceries, snacks and alcohol.

What are some Niseko ski or travel tips you want to share with others?

Niseko has a lot to offer beyond skiing and snowboarding. We would highly recommend renting a car if you want to visit neighbouring townships and sample produce from places like the Takahashi Dairy Farm. If you like whisky, the Yoichi distillery is around an hour’s drive and also accessible by train.

Tell us your favourite…

Ski Resorts: Hirafu and Annupuri
Onsen: Niseko Grand Hotel
Restaurant: Hirafu Area – Rin, Kobetei, Lava Lounge; Kutchan Area – Sapporo Ramen Daishin, Nokanosobaya Yoteizan, Patty Daddy