Japan has been gaining popularity as a ski destination, preferred by many for its powder snow and proximity to countries in Asia and Oceania. But Japan can be daunting for first-time visitors. Here’s a cheat sheet on everything you need to know if you’re visiting Niseko for the first time.
Getting to Niseko
Getting to Niseko couldn’t be easier with direct flights to Chitose Airport now. From Chitose Airport, you could take the bus to Hirafu/Kutchan. Alternatively, get tickets for the JR line via Sapporo to Otaru, change at Otaru for Kutchan and then take a bus from there to Hirafu Junction. Though easy to navigate, this train journey may be difficult with luggage, especially the last mile to your chalet. We suggest that you ask the Elite Concierge to arrange for an airport pickup. For a family travelling with luggage, this is the most convenient option.
Moving Around Hirafu
Settle into your chalet, you are now in the heart of all the action. Hirafu has three major sections – Hirafu Main, East and West villages. Depending on which chalet you have chosen as your mountain home, you may be a five to ten-minute walk from the main road. The sidewalks can get slippery after it snows, so make sure that you have shoes with good grips. Hiking sticks are not a bad idea either, especially for the elderly.
It is not easy to hail a taxi in Hirafu but you will find regular shuttle buses moving around the main village. These can also take you to the slopes and tend to get crowded in the mornings. Elite Havens provides a private shuttle service to and from the ski lifts, making it easy for you to get around. If you do decide to drive, note that Japan needs a special license in addition to the international driving license. The roads also tend to be slippery, so if you’re planning to stick to Hirafu, you can easily choose not to rent a car.
Skiing Information
Bookings for the winter season (late November to March) start in June. You’ll need to book your ski/snowboarding lessons in advance. The Elite Concierge can take care of this for you. Gosnow is a popular option, especially for kids, with classes held at the Grand Hirafu Gondola. You will also need to arrange for a United Niseko ski lift pass. If you are not carrying equipment (ski/board, boots, helmet, goggles), it can easily be rented from Yama Sports or Rhythm. Alternatively, the Elite Concierge can help arrange for these.
Once you reach the base of the ski lifts, you will find lockers on the second floor for storing shoes and a small backpack for 200 Yen. Carry a change of top wear in case you get soaked through.
Apres-Ski Scene
Niseko is a skiing village and is littered with a lot of amazing restaurants. Many of these open just for the winter, so make sure that you enquire in advance. Quite a few require reservations. Before you go, do your research and earmark the ones you want to go to. The Elite Concierge can help you make reservations or you can try doing so yourself.
If you’re looking for a tipple or something unique, Bar Gyu in Lower Hirafu is just the place for you. Hidden behind the door of a refrigerator, the entrance is low and you need to duck to go through. But your curiosity will soon give way to awe as you are greeted by two floors of a phenomenal speakeasy bar serving great cocktails and Japanese whisky tasters.
Where to Eat
You will find a range of great izakayas in Lower Hirafu – Ebisutei, Koharuya, and Rin to name a few. Our favourite ramen place which packs up during lunch is Tozanken Ramen (also serving a mean vegetarian ramen). Ramen lovers should pay a visit to Afuri in Setsu Niseko, a must-visit for great ramen and dumplings.
Dining in Hirafu is varied and you will find various cuisines on offer to satiate your taste buds. Frequent visitors swear by Taj Mahal for Indian food, Temporada for Spanish, Vale Grill for Italian (they also offer a pick-up and drop), Yummy for pizza, Musu, Green Farm Deli or Wild Bills for western fare. A melange of food trucks open up in the evenings – a few outside Seicomart and others at the junction of the main road and Yotei-Zaka Street. While they offer eclectic options, they’re priced fairly high and require cash. For delicious and affordable packaged eats, Seicomart and Lawson on the main road are great options.
Day Tours From Niseko
Day tours can be arranged by the Elite Concierge. You only need to ask. We tie up with the best local vendors who will ensure that you can discover this spectacular countryside with ease.
If you wish to venture out yourself, a day trip to Otaru is possible but it’s a bit of an adventure. Take the red shuttle or walk to the main road. At the Hirafu Junction bus stop, you will find the Kutchan line/Night bus line. Take that to the Kutchan Station. When you board the bus, grab the number of tickets you need from a machine at the entrance. Each ticket has a number on it. When you disembark at Kutchan Station, look at the price against the corresponding ticket number on the screen and pay that amount to the driver in cash. The buses are well timed with the train departures but if the bus gets delayed, you may need to wait for the next train. At the station, you can purchase tickets to Otaru.
Otaru is a wonderful city to walk around in. Do the Otaru canal cruise, preferably close to twilight around 4pm. On your way back, walk through the shopping street, a great place to pick up souvenirs. You can take a taxi back to the main JR station. Retrace your steps and take the same way back to Hirafu.
Or simply ask the Elite Concierge to arrange for transport and you can relax and enjoy all that this beautiful part of the world has to offer.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-time visitor, Niseko offers an unforgettable experience. With its pristine powder, charming atmosphere, and delicious cuisine, this winter wonderland has something to offer everyone. From the ease of transportation to the abundance of activities, Niseko is the perfect destination for a memorable winter getaway.
