Magnificent Niseko: Discover Japan’s Premier Winter Wonderland

Located approximately 1,200 kilometres from Tokyo, the island of Hokkaido is the most northerly region of the Japanese archipelago, facing the tip of the Russian Sakhlin Island. It is Japan’s second-largest island, and has gained notoriety in recent years for its magnificent natural treasures, from snow-capped mountains to serene lakes, emerald forests and bubbling hot springs. Niseko in particular has become one of the top destinations in the region, with world-class resorts springing up to accommodate the surge in demand.

Before the pandemic, Niseko, known for its high-quality snow, was brimming with visitors from neighbouring Asian countries, as well as the US, Australia and Europe, attracting likes of Jack Ma and former Olympians who rushed to the slopes as soon as the first dusting of snow had fallen. During the peak season from mid-January to February, many of the travellers who flocked to Iwanai Ski Resort came from abroad – according to Danny Yoder, the resort’s Marketing Manager – travelling across the globe for Niseko’s famed specialty: cat skiing.

Skiers are brought to the most accessible point near the summit of Mount Iwanai (1,086 metres above sea level) in a snowcat vehicle, searching out the best virgin powder of the season. Breathtakingly beautiful views from the peak are just the icing on the cake, with vast Hokkaido plains, thick forests and icy blue ocean stretching out in the distance – this is an ultimate paradise for confident snowboarders and skiers.

Two vehicles, each carrying a maximum capacity of 14 passengers, make the trip to the summit daily, while additional vehicles with more spacious business-class-size seats (up to 10 passengers) will be added from December 2022 onwards.

Luxurious lodgings are available in the vicinity, including HAKU Villas, Zaborin and Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono – all ideally located with convenient access to the nearby slopes.

Known for its idyllic onsen hot springs, the area offers ample opportunity for rejuvenation after a day on the mountain, but those who happen to be visiting in the off-season should pay a visit to Arai Memorial Art Museum, which houses over 200 pieces by Picasso, including some of the painter’s foremost works from his Blue Period. If you’re lucky, there may even be some late-blooming cherry blossoms to complete the picture.

Visit japan.travel to find out more about the beautiful island of Hokkaido and start planning your next trip.

Note: Due to the ongoing pandemic, travel restrictions apply to visitors from certain countries. Please check the latest information before booking your trip.

[Photos by Makoto Ito]