Discover seasonal events, facility updates, transportation details, and more.
Our real-time information is packed with tips to help you plan your trip with ease.
Make the most of your stay in Niseko with the latest updates tailored to enhance your experience.
Niseko in Winter
As temperatures begin to drop in late November and early December, Niseko transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland. Snow blankets the mountains, creating the perfect playground for winter sports enthusiasts. By mid-December through January, the region experiences its peak winter season, offering world-renowned powder snow that attracts skiers and snowboarders from across the globe.
Beyond the snow, Niseko offers an array of activities like snowshoeing and hot springs. Relax in natural onsen while admiring the snowy landscape—a quintessential Niseko experience. The serene atmosphere and stunning scenery make Niseko the ideal destination for enjoying the winter season.
Real-Time Updates for Winter in Niseko
Ski Resort Information
Stay up-to-date on the operational status of Niseko’s ski resorts. From opening dates to lift conditions and snow reports, we provide the latest updates to ensure you have the best experience on the slopes.
| Ski Resort | Open Days |
|---|---|
| Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area | Dec 1, 2024 – May 6, 2025 |
| Niseko Village Ski Resort | Dec 1, 2024 – Apr 6, 2025 |
| Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort | Dec 1, 2024 – Apr 6, 2025 |
| Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu | Dec 1, 2024 – Mar 31, 2025 |
| Niseko HANAZONO Resort | Dec 4, 2024 – Apr 6, 2025 |
Real-Time Camera
Experience Niseko’s snowy landscapes live!
Our real-time cameras showcase the beauty of the slopes and the surrounding winter scenery.
Use these live views to plan your trip or simply immerse yourself in Niseko’s magical winter atmosphere.
Make Your Winter Trip to Niseko More Enjoyable and Worry-Free
Access to Wintertime Niseko
— Explore the snowy landscapes of Niseko Town with convenient travel and transportation options —
Getting to Niseko
- By Train: Travel from New Chitose Airport to Niseko Station via JR Rapid Airport and Hakodate Line (approx. 2.5 hours). Note: Trains are infrequent, so check schedules in advance.
- By Bus: Direct ski buses from New Chitose Airport take about 2–3 hours. Reservations are recommended.
- By Car: Drive from Sapporo or New Chitose Airport to Niseko in about 2–2.5 hours via major highways.
- Private Transfer: Convenient for large groups or those with heavy luggage, private transfers take around 2.5 hours.
Winter Travel Tips
Be prepared for snowy and icy roads by using studless tires. Public transportation is a safer option for those unfamiliar with driving in winter conditions. Weather can change rapidly, so check transportation schedules and plan accordingly.
Getting around Niseko
Make Winter in Niseko Even More Comfortable!
The “Niseko Shuttle Bus” is back in operation this year!
The Niseko Shuttle Bus, a highly convenient way to get around the scenic snowy landscapes of Niseko, will operate daily from November 30, 2024, to March 23, 2025! Perfect for both sightseeing and everyday travel, this bus service is accessible to everyone. Make the most of your winter experience in Niseko with the affordable and reliable Niseko Shuttle Bus!
For detailed schedules and routes, please refer to the dedicated brochure. The Niseko Shuttle Bus is an ideal way to travel comfortably around Niseko during the winter season—make the most of this convenient transportation option!
Highlights This Year!
- Ride for Just 100 Yen!
- Enjoy budget-friendly fares at only 100 yen per ride. This year, the service is even more convenient with the addition of contactless credit card payments, alongside cash options.
- Enjoy budget-friendly fares at only 100 yen per ride. This year, the service is even more convenient with the addition of contactless credit card payments, alongside cash options.
- Free Rides for Niseko Residents!
- Residents of Niseko can ride for free by presenting a “Free Pass” issued at the JR Niseko Station Tourist Information Center. Please bring a valid ID to obtain your pass.
Convenient Public Bus Connections Across the Niseko Area
The public bus system in the Niseko area provides seamless connections between Kutchan Town, Hirafu, Niseko Town, and other key locations, covering the entire region. For detailed schedules and route information, please check the Niseko Promotion Board’s “Local Bus” section. Make your Niseko experience more enjoyable and convenient by using public transportation to explore its natural beauty and attractions!
Taxi App “GO” Available in Niseko Area Service Period: December 16, 2024 – March 15, 2025
Following last year’s success, the “GO” taxi app will once again provide full-service operation in the Niseko area. With a fleet of 20 vehicles and 45 drivers, the service ensures reliable transportation across the region.
- Easy-to-use app for taxi bookings
- Real-time location tracking
- Accurate wait time display
Convenient for Both Sightseeing and Daily Use! Car Sharing Service
In collaboration with Times Mobility, Niseko Town offers a car-sharing pilot program. This service is also available for tourists, making it a flexible and practical option for exploring the area.
Seasonal Highlights: Enjoy Winter in Niseko
Pick Up! Events
［NISEKO] Niseko Snowshoeing Experiment
［NISEKO] Niseko Snowshoeing Experiment
Eco Mobility Hokkaido (Head office: Niseko Town) is organising the ‘Niseko Slow Experience! Walking & Cycling’, the company offers snowshoeing trips in the snowfields to enjoy Niseko in winter in a natural environment other than skiing.
4 Jan – 31 Mar 2025, Time: 1) 10:00 – 2) 14:00 – (about 2 h each), Fee: 3,300.
Meet: JR Niseko Station (meeting point is subject to change).
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
November 30, 2024 – June 29, 2025 Fujikura Hideyuki Exhibition: From Winter to Summer
Held at the Arishima Memorial Hall, this exhibition features vibrant torn-paper artworks (“harie”) by Fujikura Hideyuki, portraying the poetic seasonal landscapes of Hokumeido. The focus this time is on winter-themed pieces, including some works being exhibited for the first time. Artworks will be rotated periodically during the exhibition period. Visit the Fujikura Hideyuki Gallery (located near the souvenir shop) to enjoy these captivating pieces. Check our Instagram for more info.
Experiences & Activities
Winter in Niseko Town offers an abundance of activities that provide unforgettable experiences for visitors. First and foremost, Niseko’s world-renowned ski resorts are a dream destination for skiers and snowboarders seeking pristine powder snow. With a wide variety of courses available, everyone from beginners to advanced riders can enjoy the slopes. In addition to skiing, Niseko boasts a variety of activities to immerse yourself in the winter wilderness. These include snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding. Snowshoeing, in particular, is a wonderful way to explore snow-covered forests and enjoy the serene beauty of winter landscapes. Experience Niseko’s natural charm through these diverse activities and create memories to last a lifetime!
Hot Springs
Winter in Niseko Town wouldn’t be complete without a visit to its soothing hot springs, offering the perfect way to warm both body and soul. Among the highlights are open-air baths with stunning views of snowy landscapes, providing a luxurious escape from the winter chill. The Niseko area is home to numerous hot springs, each rich in beneficial minerals. For example, sulfur-rich onsen are gentle on the skin and are especially popular for their beauty-enhancing effects. Indoor baths are also widely available, offering cozy spaces to relax and unwind. Many accommodations in Niseko feature hot springs where guests can enjoy the breathtaking snow-covered scenery while soaking in therapeutic waters. For those on the go, numerous day-use hot springs are available, making them the perfect retreat after a day of skiing or snowboarding. Refresh your body and mind with the ultimate relaxation experience in Niseko’s hot springs and savor a truly special wintertime indulgence.
Food
In winter, Niseko Town offers a variety of exquisite gourmet delights perfect for the cold season! Hokkaido’s soul food, the excellent Jingisukan and spicy soup curry, will surely make you feel at home in Niseko’s cold weather. Another feature of Niseko is that, despite being a mountain resort, you can enjoy delicious seafood. Sipping sake while enjoying fresh seafood is also a great idea. You can also enjoy drinks only available in Niseko, such as local beer, organic sparkling wine and original gin. Enjoy Niseko Town’s gourmet cuisine, with a variety of Japanese and Western dishes on the menu.
