More about hotels in Niseko-cho
Niseko: The Snowy Gem You've Got to Visit!
Niseko is located in Hokkaido, Japan, and has become a world-class winter destination known for its incredible ski areas, stunning scenery in all seasons, and lively après-ski element to any visit. Niseko is known for its lightest and driest powder, attracting thrill-seekers of all types from around the world, with an average snowfall of up to 15 metres each year. Niseko has always appealed to more than just visiting skiers or snowboarders, and continues to have that appeal in all four seasons, allowing visitors to enjoy winter snow activities and summer greens for hiking, riding, and water sports. The differences in the seasons are astounding!
Foodies, rest assured that Niseko understands the farm-to-table approach to dining, serving locally sourced seafood and products to your table, making for a leisurely food adventure. The onsen experience, Japan's traditional hot spring experience, is considered a rite of passage when visiting. All described, Niseko has a unique, handful of experiences that offer both thrills or tranquillity.
Best Attractions to Visit in Niseko
Whether you choose to visit the first time or the fiftieth, there are a few spots that you just don't want to miss:
- Grand Hirafu Ski Resort
This is the largest and the most recognized ski area in Niseko, boasting thirty skiing and snowboarding runs and all while being one of the most picturesque destinations. Whether novice or expert, Grand Hirafu is a ski resort that truly supports every level of experience.
- Niseko Village
Niseko Village is known for its lodgings and scene, so if you want to stay in style (with all food, shopping, skiing, and lodging in one area), this is your location!
- Mt. Yotei
Mt. Yotei is commonly known as the "Fuji of the North" due to its likeness and dormant volcano capacity where one's outdoor adventure can start with a strenuous hike all the way to the summit and get rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Hokkaido.
- Niseko Onsen
Niseko Onsen is a remarkable aspect in Niseko where one can revel in delicious hot onsen after a long day on the slopes with countless natural hot springs at barefoot in every affordable price possible with wholesome regenerating experience.
- Hanazono Resort
Hanazono Resort in Niseko is not just a ski resort, it is also an area where one can have various snow activities like snowmobiling, snowshoeing and more family snow park style.
Is Niseko Safe for Tourists?
Niseko permits safe travelling to tourists in this reputable aspect, particularly speaking in Japan which is known for being one of the safest countries in the world. You can simply take safety measures such as being aware of your surroundings but also respectful of others and culture where tourism development takes place; It will result although unexpected, it does take place once.
In good travelling caution +1, ski and snowboarding in the mountains is never a total safeguard, please be true to practising all rules like of boundaries and wear your safety gear into local rules; despite Japan's renowned health-care service, tourists are also advised to obtain travel insurance even before a visit to Niseko. If you plan to entail winter sport, please select the option of 'sport activity' while purchasing.
What’s the Weather Like in Niseko?
The weather is what makes Niseko a year-long trip, even if Niseko is popular or not, for winter. There a short outlined regular schedule of times:
- The Spring (April to May) in Niseko is full vegetative landscapes, tropical heat, hot and relaxing river rapids.
- The Summer (June to August) is still pleasant (not hot) and ranges from 15 degrees to 25 degrees Celsius which is extremely good for hiking, cycling, and many outdoor festival activities.
- Autumn (September-November) is a stunning season with cooling temperatures ranging from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius, colourful leaves, and the harvest season, which is a breathtaking time of year for photography and for scenic drives. Niseko Autumn, or Food Festival, showcases local cuisine from all sorts of places.
- Winter (December-March) is defined by heavy snow accumulation and perfect conditions for skiing and snowboarding. Yes, it is cold; however, the dry powdery snow makes it all worth it. The main winter season runs from mid-December all the way through February with a better period beginning from mid-March to April.
How to Get to Niseko and Getting Around
Niseko is in southwestern Hokkaido, 50 kilometres south-west of Sapporo and 80 kilometres west of New Chitose Airport. The major forms of transport are bus, train, and road transportation in conjunction with flying to New Chitose Airport and a connection via coach to Hirafu Welcome Center.
Flight
Niseko is easily reached via Flight from Tokyo, and it is also possible to train from Sapporo. Flights are frequent and leave daily from most major airports within Japan, which includes an international terminal.
Train
Niseko has two major train stations: Kutchan Station and Niseko Station. While both stations are important, Kutchan JR Station has all of the connecting buses and taxis and is usually the busier station.
Driving
Driving from Sapporo is convenient, especially considering the choice of driving via the freeway or via Nakayamatoge road through the highlands.
Bus
There are daily buses, especially throughout the winter and summer period, from New Chitose Airport. It is advised you book these in advance if you are travelling in the winter months.
Private Transportation
Taxi service, which is booked in advance, from New Chitose Airport to Niseko will allow you to manage your own travel arrangements. Many tour providers based in Niseko will manage private and/or group travel for you.
Getting Around Niseko:
Bus
Once you arrive in Niseko, you will likely want local transportation. Public buses operate throughout the Niseko area and connect you to Kutchan Town, Hirafu, Niseko Town, and more. The two primary public bus companies are Niseko Bus, and Donan Bus. In the winter, during night hours, there is reliable bus service known as the Night Go Bus.
Taxi
When you wish to grab a taxi when you are in Niseko, the only places you will find taxis waiting are at either Niseko Station or Kutchan Station; otherwise, you will not see taxis waiting. You will need to contact a taxi company himself by phone or email to ensure you have a taxi reserved. That being said, if they are busy, you may be waiting for more than an hour as always reservations take priority. We recommend being as proactive as possible when making reservations.
Rental Car
However, a good alternative to hailing a taxi in the area is to rent your own car. If you are coming in winter; just be prepared for snowy travel.
The Best Restaurants in Niseko
If you are a foodie, Niseko is a real treat, with dining opportunities ranging for every type of palate; let's explore 5 restaurants (of several) you must eat at.
- Kamimura
190-4 Yamada, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0081
Kamimura is a unique Michelin star restaurant serving food funnelling Japanese tastes with French-style cuisine. The tasting menu is a whole experience in itself; What they present to you is equally distinctive, flavorful, and visually sublime.
- The Barn by Odin (A winter-only bistro)
170-323 Yamada, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0081
The Barn is a location that is stylish and trendy while serving tasty French-style cuisine in an antique barn-type building. Particularly popular are the duck confit and selection of varying wines.
- Rakuichi Soba
431 Niseko, Niseko-cho, Abuta District, Hokkaido 048-1511
This intimate, family-operated soba restaurant serves some of Japan’s finest handmade soba noodles. It's located slightly away from the tourist route, but it’s definitely worth the experience.
- Bang Bang
2 4-chome-5-47 Nisekohirafu 1 Jo, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0080, Japan
Bang Bang is an excellent Japanese izakaya spot with excellent yakitori on its menu galore. This active environment offers grilled skewers and many other Japanese sake varieties. They are an establishment frequented by tourists and locals alike.
- Ichi Ichi Kitchen
263-14 Soga, Niseko, Abuta District, Hokkaido 048-1522, Japan
The menu here includes a mix of flavours from around the world while using traditionally Japanese ingredients to try to best experience imaginative food. With stunning views of Mt. Annupuri and Mt. Yotei mountains, a trip to Ichi Ichi Kitchen will not only engage the taste buds – this will be a genuine sensory experience.
Top Shopping Malls in Niseko
While Niseko may not be known as a shopping destination, there are a few spots to find something unique treasures:
- Niseko View Plaza
77-10 Motomachi, Niseko, Abuta District, Hokkaido 048-1512
Niseko View Plaza is more than just a shopping destination; it is a local produce market with fresh vegetables and dairy products and a souvenir shop. This is a great stop for gifts or a snack from one of the food stalls.
- The Vale Niseko
166-9 Yamada, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0081
Shop in The Vale hotel and find a selection of high-end boutiques and shops selling designer clothing and ski gear and some cool accessories to take home.
- HIRAFU 188
188-9 Yamada, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0081
It may be a small shopping centre in central Hirafu, HIRAFU 188 has a mix of souvenir shops, fashion boutiques and cafes. This is a perfect stop between ski runs, if you would like to do a bit of shopping.
Budget Hotels in Niseko
Are you travelling budget? There are 5 hotels that are reasonably priced:
4-jo 1-3-3 Nisekohirafu, Niseko-cho, Abuta, Hokkaido, Japan, 044-0087
- Popular Facilities: Restaurant, 24-Hour Front Desk, WiFi, Elevator
- Check-In / Check-Out Time: 15:00 - 00:00 - Before 10:00
- Distance to Downtown: 1.73 km
- Popular in the Area: Niseko Mountain Resort Grand Hirafu
361-3, Soga, Abuta District, Niseko-cho, Abuta, Hokkaido, Japan, 048-1522
- Popular Facilities: WiFi
- Check-In / Check-Out Time: 15:30 - 21:00 - Before 10:00
- Distance to Downtown: 1.57 km
- Popular in the Area: Niseko Higashiyama Ski Area
65-13 Aza Kabayama, Abuta, Niseko-cho, Abuta, Hokkaido, Japan, 044-0081
- Popular Facilities: Restaurant, WiFi, Elevator
- Check-In / Check-Out Time: 15:00 - 18:00 - Before 10:00
- Distance to Downtown: 1.16 km
- Popular in the Area: Niseko Mountain Resort Grand Hirafu
1-1-11 Nisekohirafu 4 jo, Niseko-cho, Abuta, Hokkaido, Japan, 044-0087
- Popular Facilities: Restaurant, WiFi
- Check-In / Check-Out Time: 15:00 - 22:00 - Before 10:00
- Distance to Downtown: 2.03 km
- Popular in the Area: Niseko Mountain Resort Grand Hirafu
83-82 Yamada, Niseko-cho, Abuta, Hokkaido, Japan, 044-0081
- Check-In / Check-Out Time: From 15:00 - Before 10:00
- Distance to Downtown: 1.39 km
- Popular in the Area: Niseko Mountain Resort Grand Hirafu
Top-Rated Luxury Hotels in Niseko
If luxury is what you’re after, Niseko has plenty of high-end options:
2-1-13-6 Niseko Hirafu, Niseko-cho, Abuta, Hokkaido, Japan, 044-0089
- Popular Facilities: WiFi
- Check-In / Check-Out Time: 15:00 - 18:00 - Before 10:00
- Distance to Downtown: 1.06 km
- Popular in the Area: Niseko Mountain Resort Grand Hirafu
2-1-13-6 Niseko Hirafu, Niseko-cho, Abuta, Hokkaido, Japan, 044-0089
- Popular Facilities: WiFi
- Check-In / Check-Out Time: From 15:00 - Before 10:00
- Distance to Downtown: 1.25 km
- Popular in the Area: Niseko Mountain Resort Grand Hirafu
Kutchan Cho Aza Yamada 60-4, Niseko-cho, Abuta, Hokkaido, Japan, 440081
- Popular Facilities: WiFi
- Check-In / Check-Out Time: 15:00 - 17:00 - Before 10:00
- Distance to Downtown: 2.37 km
- Popular in the Area: Niseko Mountain Resort Grand Hirafu
Aza Yamada 111-57, Abuta-gun, Niseko-cho, Abuta, Hokkaido, Japan, 044-0081
- Check-In / Check-Out Time: 15:00 - 18:00 - Before 10:00
- Distance to Downtown: 1.08 km
- Popular in the Area: Niseko Mountain Resort Grand Hirafu
46-26 Higashiyama, Niseko-cho, Abuta, Hokkaido, Japan, 048-1521
- Check-In / Check-Out Time: 16:00 - 20:00 - Before 10:00
- Distance to Downtown: 754 m
- Popular in the Area: Niseko Higashiyama Ski Area
Pet-Friendly Hotels in Niseko
Are you travelling with your pet? You can find several pet friendly hotels in Niseko.
Niseko-cho, Higashiyama Onsen, Niseko-cho, Abuta, Hokkaido, Japan, 048-1592
- Popular Facilities: AC, Restaurant, 24-Hour Front Desk, Parking, Elevator, WiFi
- Check-In / Check-Out Time: From 15:00 - Before 11:00
- Distance to Downtown: 2.08 km
- Popular in the Area: Niseko Mountain Resort Grand Hirafu
Pet Policy
- Pet-friendly rooms
- Max weight: 10 kg
- Max size: small
- Please book - Dog Friendly Plan
19-1 Higashiyama, Niseko-cho, Abuta, Hokkaido, Japan, 048-1521
- Popular Facilities: Restaurant, WiFi
- Check-In / Check-Out Time: 15:00 - 18:00 - Before 10:00
- Distance to Downtown: 394 m
- Popular in the Area: Niseko Higashiyama Ski Area
Pet Policy
- Each room is equipped with a sticky roller to deal with dog hairs.
- All dogs should be immunised against rabies and other infectious diseases.
- Only dogs are allowed to stay on the property.
- The dog must be four months or older.
- Small: less than 10 kilograms (fee applies).
- Medium: less than 25 kg (fee applies).
- Large: 25kg and up (fee applies).
Aza Iwaobetsu Kutchan co, Kyowa-cho, Iwanai, Hokkaido, Japan, 044-0082
- Popular Facilities: Swimming Pool, Restaurant, 24-Hour Front Desk, Parking, WiFi, Elevator
- Check-In / Check-Out Time: From 15:00 - Before 12:00
Pet Policy
- Pets must be thoroughly trained and vaccinated at least 14 days to one year before arrival.
- A Pet Staycation booking requires a pet consent form and a copy of the pet's immunisation certificate.
- Up to two dogs weighing a maximum of 6 kg each.
- Rates are based on the fee for one pet.
- A second pet costs an additional charge per night.
Local Cuisines in Niseko
Your experience in Niseko would not be complete without experiencing some local unique flavour. Below are the must-try dishes:
- Jingisukan - A Hokkaido specialty, hot grilled lamb and vegetables at your table on a specifically shaped dome grill. This is hearty, full of flavour and perfect after a day on the snow.
- Nabe - Traditional Japanese hot pot dish that’s comforting, nutritious and consists of seasonal vegetables, meat and tofu in a broth. A communal meal enjoyed with family or friends.
- Seafood Donburi - A rice bowl topped with a huge mound of fresh seafood like salmon, tuna and crab. It’s simple yet incredibly fresh and delicious.
- Hokkaido - Style ramen: Hokkaido-Style ramen is known for its richness and is miso base broth. It’s thick and hearty and can be a great comfort food on a cold day.
- Zangi - Hokkaido’s style fried chicken. Marinated and fried chicken with soy sauce base and garlic. Fried chicken is often served as a snack or served as a meal with rice.
- Yubari Melon - Not a dish, but a must try while in Hokkaido. The melon is known for its sweetness and juicy texture. It is a refreshing treat commonly served as a dessert.
- Sapporo Beer - And again not a dish but every meal in Niseko would be incomplete without trying sapporo beer. The local brew is famous in Japan and pairs nicely with many dishes from Hokkaido.
Family-Friendly Attractions in Niseko
Niseko is not just an adult destination but a great spot for families too! Below are fun possibilities the whole family will enjoy!
- Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area: The international ski area is ideal for families with the gentle slope suitable for beginners and kids learning to snowboard. The ski area also has ski schools using English or other language, equipment rental, and other services to help parents take the load getting to the slopes.
- Niseko Adventure Centre (NAC)
A perfect option for an active, year-round base for many outdoor activities, from summer rafting and rock climbing to winter snowshoeing. Great for the active family.
- Pure at Niseko Village
An adventure park w/ lots of activities for kids of all ages, including a zip-line, tree trekking, and a kids play area.
- Lake Hangetsu Nature Park
Non-strenuous family hiking centred around a crescent-shaped lake with stunning views. The trails are easy enough for kids to navigate.
- Kutchan Natural History Museum
A small but interesting natural history museum showcasing the natural history of the area (and volcanic history) that is very educational and informative, fun for the curious younger mind, and free.
- Niseko Takahashi Dairy Farm
Kids and adults love going to the Dairy Farm with kids to see the operational dairy farm (including ice cream and cheese!). The fresh milk and soft serve are delicious!
Niseko offers an incredible mix of adventure, relaxation and cultural experience - skiing, snowboarding, eating local foods, and soaking in an onsen is the perfect way to end a day of exploring this beautiful area of Japan.
How to book a hotel room in Niseko Online?
Booking a hotel room in Niseko is easy with Traveloka . Simply visit the Traveloka website or app, enter your destination and travel dates, and browse through a wide selection of accommodations such as nearby hotels, flights, and other tourist attractions to visit. Pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful areas of Japan! Trust me, you will not want to leave!
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