If you can only pick one Japanese ski resort, let it be Niseko. Niseko is Japans #1 ski resort for good reason. With some of the best powder snow found on earth, a buzzing village with a huge choice of restaurants and quirky bars, a vast variety of accommodation from traditional Japanese inns to massive 5-star western style hotels plus it is so easy to get to, you can see why Niseko is so popular for skiers and snowboarders.
To be honest, it's like nothing that you have every experienced before. When Mother Nature turns it on, it snows and snows and snows some more, after that, it just keeps on snowing. After a week, you have to wonder if it will ever stop. This is why people keep going back to Niseko year after year. Its conditions can be epic. Once you’re up there, it’s waist deep, you come down the mountain like you’re floating on a cloud, the snow is so soft and light. Once you get to the end of the run you realise you couldn’t smile any harder if you tried, it’s true bliss.
After you have skied and snowboarded until your heart is content, eaten enough sushi at the best restaurants, drunk saké at all your new favourite bars, now is the time to experience all that Niseko has to offer. Après ski. There is so much more than just Niseko skiing and snowboarding. Take a break from the powder and really explore Niseko. Experience Japan. While there is an endless list of non-ski activities to do in Niseko, here are some of our favourites:
Onsens, when in Japan you just have to nude up and step into an onsen. Onsens are a unique Japanese tradition dating back thousands of years. The natural carbon dioxide in the water is said to improve blood circulation, a perfect way to end a big day up at the ski hill. Niseko offers a lot to choose from, including Goshiki, Ki Niseko, Hilton Niseko Village, Kiranoyu and for a lively atmosphere where you can enjoy some beers while soaking, Onsen Yukoro.
Karaoke, again when in Japan you have to Karaoke. There are plenty of options. Check out Angel Karaoke Bar, Do Re Mi, Utaya or Nozomi 2.
Hanazono Adventure Park with a a range of fun and exciting snow-play activities for all ages. Swing over snow like Tarzan with the 200 metre long skyride, or snow tube / sled on safe and well-groomed dedicated areas – now with Magic Carpets!
Bars, so some of the bars feel like you are back at home, others are so quirky, strange and chic that you’ll love them straight away. Try and visit Gyu Bar (The Fridge Bar), The Barn, Tamashii, Big Foot Lodge, Wild Bills and Barunba.
Snowmobiling, this just goes with any snow holiday. If you haven’t tried it before, it’s exhilarating.
The NAC, Niseko Adventure Centre offers a whole lot to keep you busy on and off the snow from Powder Cat Tours for fresh tracks, guided ski tours, back country tours, snowshoe tours and an indoor climbing gym.
Our advice is to do your research first. A lot of the popular restaurants and activities require advance reservations. We have been to most of the restaurants and bars plus tried the non ski activities, if you need any suggestions let us know and we can guide you to which will give you the best experience.
Want to learn more about how Deep Powder Snow Holidays can help you? Contact us today to arrange your Japan ski holiday!
