Niseko’s Late Spring: Ski Until May 6th, Enjoy Cherry Blossoms, and Go Rafting!

March, 29th 2024

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, with Niseko Tokyu Grand HIRAFU and Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area remaining open until May 6.

This late spring period is not only a great time to enjoy the last bits of skiing before the summer but also an opportunity to see Japan’s famous cherry blossoms (sakura) in bloom, and to enjoy summer activities such as rafting and golf. Read on to find out more about the things you can enjoy during this late spring period before the ski season ends.

Cherry Blossom Bloom

From April to May is the only time of the year you get to see the exquisite Japanese cherry blossoms blooming. In Hokkaido the sakura are expected to start blooming around April 26 and to be in full bloom by April 30 (but subject to change). Keep an eye on the forecast here and you could plan your trip to coincide with this natural wonder.

The Best Season for Rafting!

The end of April to around the middle of May marks the season for the best rafting throughout the year. The snow accumulated over the winter melts and flows into the rivers, increasing the water level. With bigger rapids, rafting during this season is the most thrilling. Rafting is also a great way to immerse yourself in nature, and if you’re lucky, you might be able to see cherry blossoms during the activity too. Check out more details about rafting here.

Golf!

The end of April to the beginning of May is also the only time of the year when you get to ski and golf on the same trip. Niseko Village’s Niseko Golf Course opens from April 25, and Niseko Hanazono Resort’s HANAZONO GOLF opens from May 3. HANAZONO GOLF is open for reservations now, and Niseko Village will start taking reservations from April 1st. Go check out Niseko Village Golf and Niseko Hanazono Resort websites for more details.

Check out hotel packages:
The Green Leaf Niseko Village
Hinode Hills Niseko Village

Tree Trekking

Want to try something thrilling and test your courage with your family and friends? Tree Trekking is an outdoor activity where you navigate through a high-ropes obstacle course strung between the trees. Hanazono Tree Trekking, known to be the largest in Hokkaido with seven courses, will open from April 27. Niseko Village Pure will be opening from the same day too. No doubt, it’ll be a memorable experience!

Check out hotel packages:
The Green Leaf Niseko Village
Hinode Hills Niseko Village

Drive around Niseko and Explore!

Now that the snow has melted from the road, driving is a lot less tricky and more relaxing than it was before. Car rental rates are also more affordable than peak season, so there is no better time to explore Niseko by car. Try driving to all the different onsens, eating out at the most local small restaurants, visiting the local shrines, and having a taste of Niseko’s authentic Japanese experience!