Niseko’s status as an international resort area was initially based primarily on the vast quantities of powder snow, known by locals as “white gold”, leading to frequently perfect skiing conditions.
As attested by more than 20 meters of snow in the 2021 the snow is still falling, however now Niseko has become a truly all year round resort with 4 distinct seasons, each offering distinct sightseeing and entertainment possibilities.
Below is a brief guide of the Niseko Lifestyle throughout the year.
MOVIE from Paul (on Niseko Trading website)
Spring
River rafting is also extremely popular in this area and in spring in particular the water flow is fast and exciting due to the large volume of snow melt into the rivers below.
For many Japanese, Summer is the best season in Niseko with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees celsius.
Many residents of Tokyo, Osaka and other Southern cities travel to this area to take advantage of the ideal weather while enjoying the various outdoor activities on offer. Trekking, camping, glamping and barbecue come into their own at this time of year and many locals and visitors alike enjoy using Niseko as their base in the Summer to drive further afield to other areas of scenic beauty in the vast Hokkaido island.
Many traditional and friendly hot spring ryokans, serving delicious local foods are available to accommodate travelers.
Summer
Fall
The fall foliage in Niseko is on a different scale to most places due to the huge canopies around the mountain range and beyond.
The first 3 weeks of October are prime time for fall viewing and a short ride in the Gondola will take you to the midpoint of the mountain, from where, on a clear day, there is a stunning view of the iconic Mt Yotei.
We also recommend a visit to Fukidashi Park, a Hokkaido Heritage area, situated in a small town called Kyogoku.
There is a beautiful park area here at the foot of Yotei mountain and purified drinking water flowing from the mountain will quench your thirst on the spot, or if you take some empty bottles you can take it back home for later use.
Last but not least in the year’s calendar is winter and Niseko is Asia’s premier winter resort due to the copious amounts of super light snow, perfect for powder skiing, and the great variety of skiing possibilities. The whole area is made up of 4 interlinked ski resorts: Hanazono, Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village andAnnupuri. Moiwa is another resort (next to Annupuri), which will likely be connected to the other ski areas in the near future.
If you are staying for an extended period, we recommend the 40 minutes drive to the Rusutsu mountain, not as well known as Niseko, but with some great skiing nonetheless.
For those looking for alternative activities, several companies also rent equipment for courses in cross country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling.
Niseko is also famous for its large number and variety of natural hot springs. These are open throughout the year of course but most people agree that warming your body in the hot mineral waters in an outdoor pool while the cold snow swirls around you is a different level of pleasure!
Winter
