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Enjoy Skiing, Snowboarding, and Hot Springs in Winter Niseko! Experience the Great Outdoors with Your Whole Body in Niseko, Hokkaido [Niseko Town x Domingo]
Table of Contents
1. What is Niseko Town?
2. When you think of winter in Niseko, you think of skiing and snowboarding! An introduction to Niseko's ski resorts
3. The Niseko area is an onsen paradise! Take a relaxing tour of its diverse hot spring facilities
①Niseko Higashiyama Onsen Village /
②Annupuri Onsen Village /
③Niseko Konbu Onsen Village /
④Niseko Ekimae Onsen /
⑤Niseko Goshiki Onsen
4. How to get to Niseko Town? How to get around? A guide to access in Niseko
5. Enjoy winter in Niseko! A message from the Niseko Town Office
What is Niseko Town?
Niseko Town is a hilly area located in the western part of central Hokkaido, almost in the center of the Shiribeshi subprefecture, surrounded by Mt. Yotei and Niseko Annupuri. It's easily accessible, about a two-hour drive from Sapporo City and New Chitose Airport, attracting many tourists not only from within Hokkaido but from all over Japan and abroad.
In the summer, you can enjoy outdoor activities like rafting on the Shiribetsu River, hiking Mt. Yotei and Niseko Annupuri, and camping. In the winter, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the best snow. Many people probably have the impression that it's a town where you can play your heart out in both summer and winter, right?
Rafting on the Shiribetsu River. Photo courtesy of Niseko Town.
Photo courtesy of Niseko Town.
We spoke with Momoe Ono and Fuya Shijo from the public relations department, and Hanayo Fukazawa from the tourism department at the Niseko Town Office about their recommendations for winter activities in Niseko!
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From left: Ms. Ono (Public Relations), Ms. Fukazawa (Tourism), Mr. Shijo (Public Relations)
"What would you say is the main attraction of Niseko in winter?"
When we asked, the answer came back:
"There are many attractions, but it has to be the ski resorts and the onsen!"
In this article, we'll introduce the ski resorts, famous for their powder snow, and the onsen, where you can enjoy a variety of spring qualities within the town!
When you think of winter in Niseko, you think of skiing and snowboarding! An introduction to the town's ski resorts
The northwesterly seasonal winds from Siberia hit Mt. Yotei and the Niseko mountain range, resulting in heavy snowfall in Niseko Town. The light, fluffy snow quality is popular, attracting many skiers and snowboarders from all over the world.
Here are the three ski resorts located in Niseko Town!
1
Niseko Village Ski Resort
Photo courtesy of Niseko Village Ski Resort
At Niseko Village, which has a large slope extending out on the southeast face of the main peak, Annupuri, you can enjoy adventurous skiing. The middle section, in particular, is a treasure trove of varied terrain. The upper part is above the tree line, offering a very wide open barn. The Hilton Niseko Village and The Green Leaf Niseko Village, where you can enjoy an elegant resort life, are connected at the foot of the mountain. From the summit, you can access all the ski resorts of the entire Niseko mountain range. A maximum run of 5,000m and the best powder snow await you.
(Source: Niseko Town Tourist Guide)
*For course details, please see here.
■Niseko Village Ski Resort
Location: Higashiyama Onsen, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun
Operating Season: Early December to early April
Hours: 8:30 AM - 8:00 PM *Special hours during Golden Week
Inquiries: 0136-44-2211
Website
2
Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area
Photo courtesy of Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area
Located on the southern slope of Niseko Annupuri, this ski resort features long, wide, and gentle slopes. You can enjoy a leisurely and elegant ski while gazing at the Erman's birch trees. Hotels and pensions are gathered at the foot of the mountain, and the Hotel Niseko Northern Resort, Annupuri, nestled in the woods, is connected to the ski area. The courses spread across the southern slope of Niseko Annupuri offer a diverse layout that can be enjoyed by everyone from beginners to advanced skiers. The long cruising while viewing the magnificent scenery, including Mt. Yotei, Lake Toya, and Mt. Usu, is truly exhilarating.
(Source: Niseko Town Tourist Guide)
*For course details, please see here.
■Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area
Location: 485 Niseko, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun
Operating Season: Late November to early May
Hours: 8:30 AM - 8:00 PM
Inquiries: 0136-58-2080
Website
3
Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort
Photo courtesy of Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort
Being the closest resort in Niseko to the sea, it's loved by many skiers and snowboarders for its creamy snow with just the right amount of moisture, abundant snowfall, and a compact mountain packed with attractive features like tree runs and large bowls. The beauty of Mt. Yotei and Annupuri on a clear day is exceptional. It's a ski resort that can be enjoyed by everyone from beginners to advanced skiers, with free admission for preschoolers and very reasonable prices for elementary and junior high school students.
*For course details, please see here.
■Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort
Location: 448 Niseko, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun
Operating Season: Early December to mid-April
Hours: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Inquiries: 0136-59-2511
Website
Good to Know! Useful Extra Info
■Niseko United All Mountain Pass
To fully enjoy the slopes of Mt. Niseko Annupuri (1,308m), the 'Niseko United All Mountain Pass' is recommended. This all-mountain pass can be used at the four ski resorts that make up "Niseko United," spread across the slopes of Niseko Annupuri.
In addition to the lifts at each ski resort, which are connected near the summit, you can also use the shuttle bus that connects the base areas.
About the Niseko United All Mountain Pass
■Niseko Rules
The 'Niseko Rules' were established to prevent accidents outside the ski resort boundaries. Niseko once had the highest number of avalanche fatalities in Japan. These rules were created to ensure the safety of the many people who enjoy Niseko's snowy mountains while respecting the freedom to ski in fresh powder. For safe skiing, please follow the Niseko Rules and enjoy your time on the slopes.
About the Niseko Rules
The Niseko area is an onsen paradise! Take a relaxing tour of its diverse hot spring facilities
The hot springs that gush from the Niseko mountain range are rich in variety! The water colors are also unique, ranging from clear to milky white and brownish-red. Many facilities offer day-trip bathing, so hopping between different onsen is a great way to enjoy them.
Here are some onsen facilities in Niseko Town that are open for day-trippers and easy to visit!
Niseko Higashiyama Onsen Village
The 'Niseko Higashiyama Onsen Village' is a hot spring area with excellent access from Niseko Village Ski Resort. Soaking your cold, tired body in an onsen after skiing or snowboarding is the absolute best!
Another major attraction is the beautiful view of Mt. Yotei from the open-air baths on a clear day.
1
Hilton Niseko Village
Photo courtesy of Niseko Town
Easily accessible ski resort: Niseko Village Ski Resort
Spring type: Sodium chloride spring
Rentals: Bath towel 100 yen
■Hilton Niseko Village
Location: Higashiyama Onsen, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun
TEL: 0136-44-1111
Bathing fee: Adults 1,200 yen, Elementary school students 700 yen (includes hand towel), Preschoolers free
*Day-trip bathing plans may change depending on the season, so please confirm.
Hours: 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Closed: Open year-round
*Due to current COVID-19 countermeasures, onsen use is limited to staying guests and fitness members. Please contact the hotel for information on when day-trip bathing will resume.
Website
Annupuri Onsen Village
This onsen area is located at the southern foot of Niseko Annupuri and has good access from the Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area. Why not heal your body by taking a long soak in the smooth, gentle hot spring water?
2
Ikoino Yuyado Iroha
Photo courtesy of Niseko Town
Easily accessible ski resort: Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area
Spring type: Sodium - bicarbonate/sulfate/chloride spring
Rentals: Towel set 320 yen
■Ikoino Yuyado Iroha
Location: 477 Niseko, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun
TEL: 0136-58-3111
Bathing fee: Adults 800 yen, Elementary school students 400 yen, Preschoolers free
Hours: 12:30 PM - 9:00 PM (last entry 8:00 PM)
Closed: Open year-round
Website
3
Niseko Annupuri Onsen Yugokorotei
Photo courtesy of Niseko Town
Easily accessible ski resort: Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area
Spring type: Sodium - bicarbonate/sulfate/chloride spring
Rentals: Face towel 100 yen, Bath towel 200 yen, Bath towel & face towel set 250 yen
Top pick from Ms. Fukazawa, Tourism Rep at Niseko Town Office!
The open-air bath and the post-bath massage chairs are pure bliss!
■Niseko Annupuri Onsen Yugokorotei
Location: 438 Niseko, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun
TEL: 0136-58-2500
Bathing fee: Adults 1,000 yen, Junior high students 900 yen, Elementary school students 500 yen, Preschoolers free
Hours: 6:00 AM - 12:00 AM (last entry 11:00 PM)
Closed: Open year-round (Onsen cleaning days open from around 4:00 PM)
Website
Niseko Konbu Onsen Village
This is one of the largest onsen villages in the Niseko area. It features four inns, each with its own uniquely charming open-air bath. Day-trip bathing is available, so hopping between the different onsen is highly recommended!
4
Hotel Kanronomori
Photo courtesy of Niseko Town
Easily accessible ski resort: Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort
Spring type: Sulfur-sodium/calcium-chloride/bicarbonate spring
Rentals: Bath towel & face towel set 200 yen
Top pick from Mr. Shijo, Public Relations Rep at Niseko Town Office!
After enjoying the spacious open-air bath, take it easy in the lounge.
■Hotel Kanronomori
Location: 415 Niseko, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun
TEL: 0136-58-3800
Bathing fee: Adults 900 yen, Elementary school students 300 yen, Preschoolers free
Hours: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM (last entry 8:30 PM)
Closed: Open year-round
Website
5
Niseko Grand Hotel
Photo courtesy of Niseko Town
Access from ski resorts: Excellent access from Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort!
Spring type: ① Sodium - chloride spring, ② Sodium - chloride/bicarbonate spring
Rentals: Bath towel 150 yen, Face towel 100 yen, Bathing wear (yuami) 100 yen
Top pick from Ms. Ono, Public Relations Rep at Niseko Town Office!
The high metasilicic acid content will leave your skin feeling moist and smooth!
■Niseko Grand Hotel
Location: 412 Niseko, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun
TEL: 0136-58-2121
Bathing fee: Adults 900 yen, Elementary school students 450 yen
Hours: 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Closed: Open year-round
Website
6
One Niseko Resort Towers
Photo courtesy of Niseko Town
Access from ski resorts: Excellent access from Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort!
Spring type: Sodium - bicarbonate/chloride spring
Rentals: Bath towel & face towel free
■One Niseko Resort Towers
Location: 455-3 Niseko, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun
TEL: 0136-50-2111
Bathing fee: Adults 950 yen, Elementary school students 550 yen, Preschoolers free
Hours: 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM (last entry 8:00 PM)
Closed: Open year-round
Website
7
Niseko Konbu Onsen Tsuruga Besso Moku no Sho
Photo courtesy of Niseko Town
Access from ski resorts: Excellent access from Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort!
Spring type: Sodium - chloride/bicarbonate spring
■Niseko Konbu Onsen Tsuruga Besso Moku no Sho
Location: 393 Niseko, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun
TEL: 0136-59-2323
*Only day-trip bathing set plans available (advance reservation required)
Website
Niseko Ekimae Onsen
This onsen is popular with both Niseko locals and visitors who have enjoyed sightseeing or sports. Its convenient access and high-quality water are the secrets to its popularity. The large public bath has both a Japanese-style and a Western-style section, which are rotated daily between men and women.
8
Niseko Ekimae Onsen Kiranoyu
Photo courtesy of Niseko Town
Spring type: ① Sodium - chloride/bicarbonate spring, ② Simple thermal spring (hypotonic, slightly alkaline)
Rentals: Bath towel & face towel set 300 yen
■Niseko Ekimae Onsen Kiranoyu
Location: 33 Chuo-dori, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun
TEL: 0136-44-1100
Bathing fee: Adults 500 yen, Elementary school students 250 yen, Preschoolers free
Hours: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM
Closed: 2nd & 4th Wednesday of the month (if it's a holiday, the next day), Open daily from August to October
Website
Niseko Goshiki Onsen
Located in the valley between Niseko Annupuri and Iwaonupuri, this onsen is popular in the summer with hikers stopping for a day-trip bath. Although it's a bit far from the ski resorts, the winter open-air bath, surrounded by a world of silver, is also incredibly charming.
9
Niseko Goshiki Onsen Ryokan
Photo courtesy of Niseko Town
Spring type: Acidic, sulfur-magnesium/sodium/calcium-sulfate/chloride spring
Rentals: Bath towel 500 yen, Face towel 200 yen
■Niseko Goshiki Onsen Ryokan
Location: 510 Niseko, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun
TEL: 0136-58-2707
Bathing fee: Adults 800 yen, Children 500 yen (ages 5 to elementary school)
Hours: Summer 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM (last entry 8:00 PM), Winter 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM (last entry 7:00 PM)
Closed: Open year-round
Website
How to get to Niseko Town? How to get around? A guide to access in Niseko
▼Access to Niseko Town
Considering travel time and getting around once you're there, a private or rental car is the most convenient way to get to Niseko Town.
However, Niseko gets a lot of snow in winter, and the weather can often be bad. If you're not used to winter driving, we recommend using public transportation like trains or buses.
For more details on accessing Niseko Town, please visit the Niseko Town website.
▼Getting around Niseko Town
For getting around Niseko Town, we recommend the town's local transport, the "Nikotto Bus," and the "Niseko Shuttle Bus," which runs from mid-December to the end of February!
●Niseko Shuttle Bus
The "Niseko Shuttle Bus," which connects the ski resort areas with the Niseko town center, is convenient for skiing as well as for getting to hotels and tourist facilities. Using public transport is also a great option if you want to enjoy some drinks with your meal.
Niseko residents can ride for free by showing their "Free Pass"!
For more details on the Niseko Shuttle Bus, please visit the Niseko Town website.
●Nikotto Bus
Unlike a regular route bus, this is a demand-responsive bus that operates based on prior phone reservations.
It's essential to call in advance to communicate your desired pick-up/drop-off locations and times to make a reservation. During busy periods and times, it may not be possible to book, so it's recommended to book well in advance.
It operates as a shared ride service, with the system selecting a route that doesn't significantly inconvenience other users.
For more details on the Nikotto Bus, please visit the Niseko Town website.
Enjoy winter in Niseko! A message from the Niseko Town Office
This year, Niseko Town has been blessed with a huge amount of high-quality powder snow! The conditions are perfect for enjoying winter sports or just relaxing and admiring the winter scenery!!
Even if you're not a fan of the cold, Niseko has many onsen, so you can enjoy things like an open-air snow-viewing bath where you can gaze at the magnificent scenery while warming up!
Of course, a soak in the onsen after enjoying winter sports is also the best!
Especially in times like these when long-distance travel can be difficult, why not enjoy a day trip to Niseko Town? Of course, overnight stays are also very welcome!
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