Niseko

Overview

Mount Yotei rises east of Niseko, while Niseko Annupuri stands to the north. This western Hokkaido town draws visitors for skiing in winter and hiking or river trips in summer. The resort districts are separate from the town center and railway station, an important distinction when planning where to stay.

What the city is known for

Winter trips focus on the ski slopes of Niseko Annupuri. Hot-spring baths are scattered across the area. Choose one near your accommodation or plan transport in advance.

Summer brings hiking and river trips. Visitors can explore the surrounding mountains or join rafting trips on the Shiribetsu River. Farms occupy much of the land beyond the resort districts.

Main areas

Niseko Village is a resort district in Higashiyama, with slope-side hotels and the restaurants of Niseko-yo. Annupuri is a separate ski and accommodation area farther west.

The Niseko Station Area is down in town. Kira no Yu provides hot-spring bathing near the trains, but reaching the ski lifts requires another journey.

Getting around and onward travel

Niseko Station is on the JR Hakodate Main Line. Rail journeys from Sapporo or New Chitose Airport travel through Otaru before continuing on local trains toward Niseko. Services are infrequent. Check connections before choosing rail instead of a road transfer.

Local buses connect the town with the resort districts, although routes and operating days vary by season. If you're staying beside the slopes, plan the trip from the station to your hotel as well as the train journey.