Niseko is a mountain with three connected villages and ski areas…Annupuri, Niseko Village and Grand Hirafu.
Niseko has some of the most consistent and heaviest powder snows in Japan, with some of the best powder anywhere.
There is great skiing for all levels. There’s a good beginner’s area, but also long, challenging pistes – the longest run is almost 5.6km – and interesting tree skiing through the quivering, leafless silver birches, and most runs have views of the volcanic cone of Mt. Yotei. It has a large night-ski area open daily.
Rusutsu is near the foot of Mt. Yotei and is a self-contained resort hotel with skiing across three mountains. There are gentle runs near the hotel, long pistes and plenty of powder for experts to dive into, plus five mountain restaurants. You’ll also find dog sledding, snowmobiling, natural hot springs and other traditional ski pursuits.
Both resorts have plenty of colourful bars and restaurants with exceptional Japanese food such as tempura, although you’ll find western options too.
Nightlife is fun and you can also take an excursion into the city of Sapporo. The Hilton is a world in itself with luxurious lounges, and indoor and outdoor hot-spring pools.
RUSUTSU
Skiing
Height 994-286m
No of Lifts 18
Km of pistes 42
5-day lift pass ¥22,000
NISEKO
Skiing
Height 300-1,240m
No of Lifts 35
Km of pistes 48
6-day lift pass ¥28,800
