Niseko is one of the largest and most beautiful ski resorts in Japan's northern island of Hokkaido. Within Niseko itself there are 3 villages, Annupuri, Higashiyama and Hirafu which are all connected by lifts and shuttle buses. The slopes are lit up at night, so you can enjoy the amazing experience of skiing in the moonlight. Niseko is also known for its fantastic powder snow and attracts avid skiers from around the world.
The Niseko Resort has some of the best powder skiing and snowboarding in the world. Based on the mountain of Annupuri, this resort has three major independent ski resorts. All three resorts at different sides of the mountain and you can ski / snowboard between all three on the one ticket as they all meet at the summit.
With up to 15 meters of fresh, dry powder snow every season, falling daily, this resort can be compared to the 13 metres recorded at even the snowiest resorts in North America and Europe.
Whether you're a powder hound or a speed seeker, hungry for the excitement of tree skiing or night skiing, or just a beginner looking for open, safe runs, the Niseko ski and snowboard area offers a wide range of terrain and challenges.
Hirafu Village is located on the doorstep to the Niseko-Hirafu Alpine Resort. A winter wonderland of snow and lights, the village offers a very intimate Japanese experience.
The area boasts a multitude of activities beyond skiing and snowboarding, showcasing the diversity of this unique Japanese location. With snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snow mobiles, rafting and dog sledding, visitors can experience the true splendour of this pristine environment. Follow up a day of adventure with the rejuvenating luxury of bathing in one of the local natural hot springs (onsen). And with a diverse range of bars and restaurants serving local and international cuisine, your day can be finished off with a warm, relaxing meal. Internet cafes, souvenir shops, and ski and snowboard rental shops are located within Hirafu Village, and all within easy walking distance. There is also a free village shuttle operating throughout the season.
Mt Youtei : beloved mountain by the people
At 1,898 meters, Mt Youtei provides a spectacular backdrop to the Niseko area. An extinct stratovolcano located south-east of the main ski area, Mt Youtei's top half is draped in snow for about 8-9 months of the year. A truly breathtaking view for Hokkaido Tracks premium properties and when skiing or boarding the slopes of the resort.
The 7,000-hectare area around the summit has been designated a national park. As the snow melts in summer, the landscape comes alive with the colourful native alpine plants of Japan. This impressive landscape can be hiked in summer, requiring about 6 hours. It ranks ninth among the hundred most famous mountains in Japan.
Niseko Grand Hirafu : enjoy one of the best off-piste skiing in the world Hirafu village is located on the southeast side of Mt Annupuri. Hirafu is the largest ski area in the Niseko resort and has two main ski areas. These are Hirafu itself which is famous for its steep slopes and Hanazono, which is renowned for its incredible tree skiing and access to some of the best off piste skiing in the world as well as offering spectacular scenery.
Niseko Annupuri Kokusai : where you can 'pick your own' course The Annupuri resort is located on the south side of Mt Annupuri. Annupuri has a wide variety of slopes where even a beginner can fully experience powder snow and there are off piste slopes such as the 'Challenge Course', 'Marchen Course', 'Fukayuki-Rinkan Course(Deep-snow Forest Course)', and the 'Silver Course'. The longest slope is 4,000m, which although being steep toward the top is wide enough for beginners to be able to enjoy it as well and is particularly enjoyable after a fresh snowfall.
Niseko Higashiyama : for the powder snow fanatics The Higashiyama resort is located between Hirafu and Annupuri and is directly connected to the Niseko Higashiyama Prince Hotel. The outstanding 2,000 metre powder snow zone also boasts a 600m vertical drop which many skiers find particularly exhilarating and offers extensive powder cruising which is difficult to find in other resorts. If you are an experienced skier the off piste runs at this result are a real must.
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