[2025 Niseko ] Travel Guide for Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Ski Area (Updated Apr)

#bucketlistreboot Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Ski Area, Hokkaido , Japan Impressive amount of snow. There are many ski resorts in Niseko. I stopped at Abuta because that’s where the public bus stopped . Took a ride from Sapporo station -Hakodate Line Local towards Otaru - stop at Otaru Station Hakodate Line Local towards Kutchan- Kutchan station followed by Hakodate Line Local towards Rankoshi to Niseko station . Take pictures and then wait for local bus to Niseko Annupuri. Make sure you have a JR pass to do this. As I am doing a day trip , I don’t mind the multiple stops. as the train rides itself is already considered a good journey .

#japantrip Welcome to Niseko Annupuri Ski Area, a winter wonderland where pristine powder and scenic beauty come together for an unforgettable experience. Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Hokkaido, this renowned ski area offers an inviting mix of wide, gentle slopes and thrilling runs for skiers of all levels. Imagine gliding through soft, untouched snow under a clear blue sky, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Niseko Annupuri Ski Area is your gateway to an alpine adventure like no other. At Niseko Annupuri Ski Area, every moment is a celebration of nature's splendor and the thrill of winter sports. From expertly groomed trails to cozy rest areas where you can warm up with a hot drink, every detail is designed to make your visit seamless and enjoyable. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-time explorer, the combination of outstanding terrain and welcoming atmosphere ensures an experience that’s both exhilarating and memorable. Come for the powder, stay for the charm—Niseko Annupuri Ski Area is where every visit feels like a dream carved in snow.

🏖️Atmosphere/Facilities: 🔆Smooth ski slopes, suitable for beginners, beautiful snow scenery 🔆Delicious restaurant food, many choices 🔆The venue is spacious and the atmosphere is great, which makes people feel passionate about skiing 💞Recommendation reasons: 🔆Convenient transportation, many free shuttle buses to nearby hotels 🔆Equipment rental is convenient, not too far from the ski slope 🔆Enjoy high-quality powder snow, there is a hot spring hotel nearby, 5 minutes walk 📍Address: 485 Niseko, Abuta District, Hokkaido 048-1511 Japan 🕰️Business hours: 8:30AM-7:30PM #niseko #二世谷 #滑 #Hokkaido

Hey guys, if you're a ski enthusiast, Niseko in Hokkaido is an absolute must-visit dream destination! I just got back, and I'm still reminiscing about the amazing time I had skiing there. I just have to share this joy with everyone. Niseko is located in Hokkaido, and the most stunning feature here is the incredibly beautiful Mount Yōtei. From afar, Mount Yōtei resembles a massive ice castle, its peak perpetually covered in snow. Bathed in sunlight, it exudes a sacred and captivating glow. Every photo you take here is worthy of sharing on social media. Of course, the biggest draw of Niseko is its four unique ski resorts: Rusutsu Resort, Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area, Niseko Hanazono Resort, and Niseko Village (formerly known as Hirafu). Each resort offers slopes of varying difficulty, so whether you're a beginner or an expert, you'll find something to enjoy. Rusutsu Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in Hokkaido, boasting a wide variety of slopes and thrilling cable car sightseeing, allowing you to enjoy breathtaking mountain views alongside skiing. Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area is renowned for its high-quality powder snow, so fine and comfortable that it feels like stepping on clouds. Niseko Hanazono Resort features thoughtfully designed slopes, with gentle and wide beginner slopes perfect for practice, while the advanced slopes offer plenty of challenges for experts to unleash their passion. Niseko Village has excellent facilities, and after a tiring day of skiing, you can relax and unwind in the nearby hot springs. I spent a whole week skiing at these four resorts, and it still wasn't enough! Every morning, skiing down the slopes as the sun rises, feeling the wind whistling past my ears, the sense of freedom and exhilaration is truly indescribable. Moreover, Niseko has a long ski season, lasting from November to April, giving you ample time to plan a perfect ski trip. Besides skiing, the food around Niseko is not to be missed. Fresh seafood sashimi, steaming hot ramen, sweet Hokkaido milk ice cream… every bite is a treat for your taste buds. There are also charming and cozy local cabins where you can stay overnight, listening to the snow falling outside your window, feeling like you're in a fairy tale. However, there are a few tips to keep in mind when skiing in Niseko. First, be sure to book your accommodation in advance, as rooms are in high demand during the ski season. Second, pack enough warm clothing, as Hokkaido winters are very cold. Finally, remember to purchase ski insurance, just in case. Hey guys, I can't wait to go back to Niseko next ski season. If you're looking for the ultimate ski trip, add Niseko to your travel list! Trust me, you won't be disappointed. Let's have some fun on the snowy mountains of Hokkaido! Are you excited about a ski trip to Niseko? Or do you have any other questions about ski trips? Feel free to leave a comment below!

Hey friends! Still struggling to find the perfect ski resort? Niseko, Hokkaido, is your ultimate destination! Composed of four major ski areas, it boasts soft powder snow, diverse slopes, and breathtaking views of the majestic Mount Yōtei. Plus, the facilities are top-notch. Without further ado, let's dive into this comprehensive guide! Four Unique Ski Areas 1. Hirafu Ski Resort: As Niseko's most famous and largest ski area, Hirafu caters to skiers of all levels. The snow quality is superb, and the rental equipment is excellent. We highly recommend booking lift tickets and equipment online in advance to enjoy discounts. The area offers a wide variety of dining options, although the cable cars are a bit basic, but that doesn't detract from the skiing experience. 2. Niseko Village Ski Resort: A hidden gem! Located near Mount Yōtei, the scenery is simply breathtaking. There are plenty of beginner-friendly tree runs, and the slopes are less crowded, making for a fantastic skiing experience. The ski resort lobby is located within the Hilton hotel, adding a touch of luxury. The cable cars are large and spacious, and you can relax at the hotel after a day on the slopes. 3. Annupuri Ski Resort: This resort is perfect for beginners, with numerous wide, beginner and intermediate slopes, often referred to as "big white slopes." However, it can get a bit crowded, and the rental equipment is somewhat clunky. The food here is quite good, offering a delightful culinary experience alongside the skiing. 4. Hanazono Resort: Although I haven't personally skied here, you can access it with a Hirafu lift ticket. It's said that the cable cars and yurts here are LV-branded, making it a great challenge for intermediate and advanced skiers. Lift Tickets and Ski Area Access You can purchase individual lift tickets for each ski area, or opt for an all-mountain pass or a combined ticket (including day passes, hourly passes, and point cards) based on your needs. Single-day lift tickets cost around RMB 300+, and ski rentals are also around RMB 300+. The ski areas generally operate until around 7:30 pm. You can ski from one peak to another or take the shuttle bus between ski areas, but you might need to carry your skis for a short distance. Therefore, we recommend focusing on one ski area per day to fully enjoy the experience. Three-Day Itinerary Suggestion DAY 1: Depart from Sapporo for Hirafu Ski Resort and experience the powder snow. Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area. DAY 2: Spend the morning at Annupuri Ski Resort on the beginner-friendly slopes, and then head to Niseko Village in the afternoon to admire the stunning views of Mount Yōtei. DAY 3: Depart from Kutchan for Otaru to soak in the romantic atmosphere, and then return to Sapporo, concluding your delightful ski trip. Transportation and Accommodation The journey from Sapporo Station to Otaru Station and then to Kutchan Station takes approximately 3 hours. From Kutchan, you can transfer to a bus to reach the ski resorts. Some hotels also offer shuttle services. Trains from Otaru to Kutchan are infrequent and crowded, so you might have to stand for the entire journey. We highly recommend Niseko Grand Hotel for accommodation. Even during the peak Lunar New Year period, when hotels are expensive and hard to book, this hotel offers rooms for just RMB 1200+. The rooms are newly renovated, the environment is fantastic, and there's an open-air onsen (even a mixed-gender one!). The hotel provides free shuttle service to and from the station, a bus to the ski resorts, and a delicious breakfast, offering exceptional value for money! The nearby Dwarf Restaurant is a popular spot with a unique atmosphere, definitely worth checking out. So, are you ready to embark on your ski adventure in Niseko? Start planning now!

#skiseason Niseko, located on Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido, is famous for its light, fluffy powder snow, often referred to as “JaPow.” With consistent heavy snowfall each season, it has become a favorite among powder enthusiasts and is particularly popular with international visitors, especially from Australia and the U.S. The Niseko United area includes four interconnected resorts: Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village, Hanazono, and Annupuri, covering a range of slopes suitable for all levels. For those seeking off-piste and backcountry experiences, Niseko offers plenty of ungroomed areas accessible from the lifts, attracting adventurous skiers and snowboarders. The area's distinctive tree-lined runs provide a unique experience compared to more open, alpine terrains. Apart from skiing, Niseko is celebrated for its onsen (hot springs), which are perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes. The village itself has a lively international vibe with a range of dining options, from traditional Japanese to international cuisine, making it a great cultural experience as well as a ski destination.

Skiing in Niseko Annupuri. It’s my most favourite place to ski. Gorgeous Mt Yotei backdrops. Great food selections on the ski field.I visit there almost every year. Loving the Japanese charms. Looking forward to my next visit next year. Only a simple train trip from Otaru which is a charming city itself. Also they provide Niseko United Shuttle bus which makes going around between resorts easy breezy as well. #skiing

Annupuri International Ski Resort, with its excellent skiing conditions and beautiful natural scenery, is an ideal choice for winter tourism and skiing in Hokkaido. The ski resort offers a variety of ski slopes of different difficulty levels. Whether you are a beginner or an expert skier, you can find a slope that suits you. The resort is equipped with a modern cable car system, which allows tourists to quickly reach various ski areas. In addition, the ski resort also provides professional skiing courses to help novices get started quickly. The natural scenery around Annupuri International Ski Resort is very charming, with cedar trees and majestic mountains. In addition to skiing, visitors can also enjoy hot springs and local cuisine and experience the unique winter charm of Japan. #Sapporo Attractions

#Sapporo Attractions Annupuri International Ski Resort🎿This grand large-scale integrated ski resort combines top ski facilities with a luxury resort. Every year, it attracts countless ski enthusiasts to experience this snow-capped ski paradise with a panoramic view of the snow country. Majestic and spectacular snow-capped mountain cliffs stand in the layers of clouds and mist. There are 25 towering peaks in the park. The endless mountains are all covered with snow, layer upon layer creating a wonderful sight of a snowy world. The highest peak is 1,600 meters high, allowing visitors to experience a long and exciting skiing trip. The most amazing thing is the top-notch skiing facilities in the park. There are 22 ski slopes for tourists to choose from, designed for skiers of different levels, ranging from gentle and simple to steep snow walls. There are also world-class snow walking trails, snow racing tracks, etc., allowing tourists to enjoy a full range of snow entertainment. The park also has a top-notch ski teaching center and rental facilities, which will satisfy both novices and professionals. As soon as the holidays come, this stretch of snow-capped peaks becomes a ski resort crowded with tourists. Whether you want to experience the wild thrill of extreme speed or enjoy the beautiful snow-capped scenery, coming to Annupuri Ski Resort will definitely make you have a great time. This is undoubtedly the best choice for a winter ski vacation.

Having seen so many beautiful sights in Japan, I was still shocked by the beauty of Niseko and couldn’t get over it for a long time. When the weather was clear, the sky was especially blue and it was snowing. I really felt like I was living in a crystal ball. Niseko is known as the "St. Moritz" of the East. It is a powder snow paradise with excellent snow quality. It has a 5-month snow season (generally from the end of November to the end of April of the following year), more than 70 ski slopes, and the annual snow accumulation in the Niseko area exceeds 13 meters, providing an excellent skiing experience~ This time I chose Annupuri Ski Resort in Niseko. Personally, I think Annupuri is more suitable for beginners and families 👨‍👩‍👧skiing ~ Annupuri is very large, the ski trails are very diverse, and the Garden Ski Resort has a snow park 🎪 + beginner ski slopes ~ About transportation: Seko is 112 kilometers away from Shinkansui CTS Airport. After arriving at Shinkansui Airport, you can go there in the following ways: 1. Take the resort bus from the airport During the snow season, there is a bus from Shinkansen Airport to Niseko Hirafu Visitor Center every day, stopping at major hotels in Niseko. 🕐: About 3h 💰: One way 230 yuan 2. Self-driving/private car pick-up The distance from the city to the ski resort is quite far, so you can choose a private car to pick you up, which is very worry-free ❤~ Those who drive themselves need to pay attention to the snow conditions, and it is not recommended for novices to try~

| Annupuri Ski Resort. Due to the huge snowfall + extremely low water content, Hokkaido's powder snow has made Niseko a top-notch ski resort. We went in early December, basically all the chairlifts and ski trails were open, we drove to the Annupuri Ski Resort, the parking lot opposite the ski center is free, we skied by ourselves, did not ask for a coach 🎿 Strategy as follows 1⃣Rent ski 🎿 equipment Use the system inside the ski center to book the package you want to rent, pay at the counter after booking, and then the staff will give you those equipment 2⃣Practice skiing After wearing the equipment, you can ski in the snow! The terrain outside this ski center is relatively flat, suitable for beginners to practice. If you ask a coach, you will also practice in this area. You must learn how to slow down and control the direction of skiing (turning) 3⃣Go to the snow mountain 🏔 ski trail 🎿 When you feel confident to ski down the mountain, you can go back to the ski center to buy chairlift tickets. You can buy one-time tickets, or daily/weekly/monthly tickets. After buying the tickets, you can take the chairlift up the mountain! The mountain is higher than we imagined, it took about 5 minutes to finally reach our ski station. However, my friend saw that the ski trail was a bit complicated and didn't have much confidence to safely ski the whole course, so he decided to take the chairlift down. But in fact, the slope of the green road is not too steep. When sliding, you should first think about the route and direction of sliding, so you can better buffer the slope. The snow in Niseko is relatively soft. If you fall, it won't hurt so much, but it's harder to get up. If you really can't do it, you can also walk down the side of the ski trail in the steeper area

Finally came to Niseko for skiing, when I started doing homework, I found that Annapuri Ski Resort is relatively less crowded and beginner-friendly, so I booked here directly You can take a bus directly from Chitose Airport to the hotel, but there are limited shifts. It is recommended to book a ticket one week in advance during the snow season. The interval between the arrival of international flights and the departure of the bus must exceed 90min. The hotel strongly recommends ski in ski out... and the best with its own rental, because there are shortages of people everywhere, many ski resorts spend a lot of time renting ski equipment, if the hotel has a rental, you can get it done early in the morning. The snow trails of Annapuri Ski Resort are flat and wide, with good visibility👀, and there are not many people, so you don't have to worry about hitting people or being hit, it is really suitable for the first time skiing white Of course, I also went to Hirafu for food, but many of them were booked in advance, and it is difficult to walk in famous restaurants. The rest are ordinary ones, which are actually not much different from the hotel restaurants here in Annapuri If you have requirements for eating and don't necessarily want to live in Hirafu, I really recommend renting a car. There is almost no public transportation in Niseko, and the shuttle bus is not very dense, which is quite troublesome. This time I swept away the shadow of my failed study in Vermont a few years ago, and I fell in love with the snow here. See you next year!

#helloautumn

Skiing is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and have fun with friends and family. For first time skiers, the slopes of Niseko in Japan are a great place to start. With its gentle slopes, excellent ski schools and beautiful scenery, it's the perfect place for beginners to learn how to ski. Niseko offers a variety of courses for first time skiers that range from basic instruction on how to move and control your skis, lessons on how to use the chairlift safely, as well as tips on how to dress appropriately for skiing in cold temperatures. The instructors at Niseko's ski schools are experienced professionals who can help you get comfortable with skiing before you hit the slopes. So if you're looking for an exciting way to spend your winter vacation, consider giving skiing a try in Niseko! #ski #snow #nature #winter #mountains #skilife #travel #adventure #beautiful #skiresort