Renowned for powder snow in the winter months, ski season begins from late November or early December and ends in early May. Covered in layers of snow, skiers and snowboarders can enjoy an average annual snowfall of 15 metres and the 47 kms of groomed slopes across four linked resorts: Niseko-Hirafu, Niseko-Hanazono, Annupuri and Niseko Village. Just footsteps away from the slopes, enjoy plentiful snowfall and beautiful winter scenery throughout half the year.
One of Asia's hidden gems in the summer, Niseko is home to stunning natural beauty, countless activities and benefits from warm weather with low humidity. Niseko is forging its name as a summer destination and is the perfect base to experience south-western Hokkaido.
Snow
With an average annual snowfall of 15 metres, Niseko is one of the most snow covered locations on the planet. Known for pristine powder snow throughout the season, weeks can go by without a break in snowfall. Bluebird days in Niseko provides enviable views of Mt Yotei and surrounding mountains while enjoying deep, fluffy and fresh snow.
Food
With the majority of Japan’s dairy, potatoes, wheat, fruit and vegetables being produced in Hokkaido, food in restaurants are almost always locally sourced. Surrounded by cold waters, Hokkaido's seafood is considered the freshest in the entirety of Japan.
Niseko is home to one of the highest concentrations of world-class Japanese and International cuisine in the whole of Japan. Restaurants in the vicinity are famed for dishes inspired by local produce, catering to fusions of Japanese and western tastes. Whether it is Michelin-starred restaurants or hole-in-the-wall Japanese izakayas, Niseko has it all.
Activities
Explore Niseko and the surrounding area with the wide range of on and off mountain activities across all seasons.
During the snow season, people visit from all over the world to experience the unique Japan powder. Other than skiing and snowboarding, enjoy off-mountain activities including: snowmobiling, kids snow parks, tobogganing, snowshoeing, onsen and more.
In recent years more and more people have come to Niseko to enjoy the temperate summer climate which averages around 25 degrees. Local festivals stretches summer days into beautiful evenings illuminated by firework shows and dancing. Enjoy cycling, rafting, mountain biking, hiking, golf, touring the local area and much more.
Shopping
As an international resort, new brands are always opening its stores in Niseko. Shop designer brands in Hirafu village, located only minutes away from Skye Niseko by shuttle bus or explore the off beat specialty stores around town. Purchase state of the art ski or snowboard gear or search for authentic antique Japanese goods.