Niseko is known as Hokkaido's go-to place for winter sports lovers. Its world-renowned powdered snow attracts people from across the globe, so you'll meet people from all walks of life. Niseko is also famous for its summer activities, such as rafting, hiking, and bouldering, making it perfect for visiting all year round!
We will introduce everything you need to know about getting to and around Niseko, as well as where to stay.
1. Getting to and from Niseko
(Photo: PIXTA)
a. Ease of access to/from New Chitose Airport
The easiest and most convenient way to get to Niseko from New Chitose Airport is to take the Hokkaido Resort liner bus, which can take you directly to some of the major ski resorts. These run throughout the day from the beginning of December to April. It takes approximately three and a half hours to get to Niseko, and an adult fare costs 4,500 yen and for children 3,500 yen.
Another option is to take the JR Rapid Airport train to Otaru, which costs 2,750 yen one way. From Otaru, you can ride the JR Hakodate Line all the way to Niseko for 1,680 yen. However, if you hold the JR Rail Pass, you can ride it for free. Most of Niseko’s sightseeing spots are located around the Hirafu area, so we recommend getting off at Kutchan Station. From Kutchan, there are multiple buses and shuttle buses that can help you get around, which we will get to later on in the article.
The final option is to go by car. You can either rent a car at New Chitose Airport or hire a taxi, which will cost approximately 25,000 yen to 30,000 yen one way.
b. Ease of getting to sightseeing spots outside Niseko
Niseko is quite a secluded area with limited train service and bus service in and out. Many of the popular sightseeing spots are up in the mountains, which will require a car. There are a few car rental spots in Niseko, such as Toyota Rent-A-Car in Hirafu or Peak Niseko Car Rental. Alternatively, you can rent a car at New Chitose Airport upon arrival.
c. Getting around Niseko
Within the major ski resort areas such as Hirafu and Annupuri, it is easy to get around by foot. Throughout the winter season, there are multiple buses to get around Niseko.
Between December and April, the Niseko United Shuttle bus runs between Hirafu, Annupuri, and Hanazono. From December to the end of February, Hirafu Shuttle Bus runs all around the Hirafu Area, so you can easily get in and out of the slopes for free!
The Niseko Bus runs between Niseko Village and Kutchan Town and costs between 160-600 yen, dep…
