North America To Niseko Gets Easier This Winter

May, 28th 2026

Niseko just got much closer for skiers and snowboarders from the US and Canada.

Starting this winter, new direct flights will connect San Francisco and Vancouver with Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport.

Together, the routes create simpler access for winter travellers heading to Niseko United.

The new services are scheduled to include:

United Airlines
Starting 11 December 2026
San Francisco (SFO) – New Chitose Airport (CTS)
Air Canada
Starting 17 December 2026
Vancouver (YVR) – New Chitose Airport (CTS)

Skip Tokyo, Save Time

For North American guests, travelling to Niseko has meant connecting through Tokyo’s Haneda or Narita airports before continuing north to Hokkaido, where Niseko is located.

The new direct routes allow many travellers to bypass Tokyo and arrive directly into Hokkaido through New Chitose Airport.

What this means for travellers:

Estimated savings of 3–6 hours, depending on the itinerary
Fewer layovers and domestic terminal transfers
Less time moving through crowded Tokyo airports
Simpler travel with ski and snowboard bags
On suitable through-booked itineraries, bags can continue through to New Chitose Airport

For guests carrying winter gear, the journey to Niseko becomes smoother, faster and easier from the start.

More Time On The Mountain

Air Canada’s New Chitose to Vancouver return flight is scheduled to depart in the evening at 19:55.

That gives Niseko guests more flexibility on their final day in Hokkaido.

Instead of losing the day to travel logistics, visitors may have time for a final ski session – or onsen – before heading to the airport.

Skiers Across The US Are One Stop Closer

San Francisco connects to around 80 cities across the US, and is one of United Airlines’ major Pacific hubs.

The new SFO-CTS route means many US travellers will be able to reach Hokkaido with just one transit.

Ikon and Mountain Collective Bonus

For passholders, there is another reason to lock in this winter: Niseko United is part of both Ikon Pass and The Mountain Collective.

Ikon Pass holders can use their pass at Niseko United, with available days depending on pass type.

Mountain Collective pass holders receive two All Mountain lift tickets, plus 50% off additional days.

Combined with new direct flights, a Niseko United powder trip just moved from wish list to winter plan.

Planning your trip? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Getting a Lift Pass at Niseko United for everything you need to know before hitting the slopes.