Niseko is essentially one mountain, although it is divided up into four linked areas, Annupuri, Higashiyama, Hanazono and Grand Hirafu making it the biggest ski resort in Hokkaido.
Skiers are able to buy all-mountain passes giving them access to 38 lifts and gondolas, over 47km of regularly groomed runs, several terrain parks and a half pipe. Terrain is divided into 30% beginner 43% intermediate and 27% advanced. There is roughly 37 square km of variable off piste terrain. The bottom lift starts at 280 meters, the top lift goes to 1200 meters giving 920 vertical meters of lift accessed terrain.
Access
Sapporo New Chitose Airport is Hokkaido’s main port, connecting the Northern Island of Japan to the rest of the world. International flights from throughout Asia Pacific, and direct flights from Tokyo and Osaka are available daily. You can view the New Chitose International Airport website for additional information.
You can book domestic flights online with websites available in both Japanese and English:
Door To Door Transfers
No waiting and no sharing with others, equals no hassle. This is particularly useful if you are yet to book your flights, as some flights are either too early or too late to catch the train or standard but transfers. Click here for more information.
Train
Trains depart daily from the airport for Kutchan (the closest train station to Niseko-Hirafu Resort). The train is usually slower than the bus, taking just over 3 hours and usually requires a change of trains at Otaru. You can visit the JR website for train timetable information.
