Being one of Japan’s beloved tourist destinations, Niseko boasts numerous attractions, particularly its snow tours. Hence, it is essential to familiarize yourself with some tips on going to Niseko from Chitose Airport to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
For a comprehensive understanding of Niseko holidays, refer to the detailed explanation provided in this article for going to Niseko from Chitose Airport.
Going to Niseko from Chitose Airport
Upon arrival at Chitose Airport, it is crucial to have a general overview of the activities and destinations to explore in Niseko.
In the upcoming section, you will delve into details about Niseko, including its culinary tours, accommodation options, and the solution to the question, “How do you get to Niseko, Japan?“
What’s Niseko?
Before going to Niseko from Chitose Airport, you need to know more about Niseko. Niseko is located in the Hokkaido prefecture in the northern region of Japan and is renowned as the country’s most celebrated ski resort. It boasts the world’s finest powder snow during the winter season. In the summer, Niseko transforms into an outdoor haven for diverse groups of tourists.
The origins of Niseko’s prominence as a favored ski destination can be attributed to Theodor von Lerch Edora, an Austrian citizen. He is said to have pioneered to ascend and ski down Mount Yotei in 1912.
Skiing at Niseko
Located in a region favored by ski enthusiasts, Niseko boasts numerous resorts offering enticing amenities for visitors.
Here are some of the Niseko ski resorts to consider:
- Niseko United
Niseko United is situated at the base of Mount Niseko Annupuri and comprises four ski resorts: Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area, Niseko Tokyu Grand HIRAFU, Niseko Village Ski Resort, and Niseko Hanazono Resort.
With the Niseko All Mountain Pass, you can freely access gondolas and lifts. The resort operates from morning till evening, with ticket prices starting at JPY 4,600 or USD 32.80. For ticket purchases, visit here
- Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort
For a tranquil skiing experience, consider Moiwa Ski Resort. Nestled at the base of Mount Niseko Annupuri, it’s about 1.8 kilometers from the main road. The resort is open daily from 09:00 AM to 03:30 PM. Prices for lift and gondola rides start at JPY 5,500 or USD 39.21, available for purchase at the counter or online.
- Rusutsu Ski Resort
Located in Rusutsu-mura, Abuta-gun Hokkaido, Rusutsu Ski Resort offers excellent snow quality for your skiing pleasure. Adventurous visitors can engage in tree skiing and off-piste activities to get their adrenaline pumping.
The resort operates daily from 09:00 AM to 08:00 PM, with admission prices starting at JPY 13,800 or USD 98.39 for 25-hour tickets, purchasable in person or online.
What to Eat?
Here are some dining recommendations to consider when you are going to Niseko from Chitose Airport:
- Two Sticks, Niseko Village’s izakaya offers a variety of Hokkaido curry soups and sake.
- Yang Shu Ten provides classic Japanese dishes focusing on multi-course set meals. All menus are locally sourced and produced from Hokkaido.
- Niseko Cheese Kobo allows visitors to taste award-winning processed cheeses. For instance, Momiji cheese secured a gold award at the 2014 Japan Cheese Award.
- Niseko Ramen Kazahana specializes in a unique potato ramen with a flavorful broth crafted from a blend of 19 miso varieties, topped with a vichyssoise of potato cream.
- Tomioka White at The Green Leaf Niseko Village offers a luxurious setting to sample an extensive collection of rare Japanese whiskeys.
Where to Stay When You Are Going to Niseko from Chitose Airport?
For a comfortable stay, consider one of the following recommendations when you are going to Niseko from Chitose Airport:
- Kasara Niseko Village Townhouse: Situated at the base of Mount Niseko Annupuri, this hotel offers appealing facilities with a distinct Japanese design.
- Hilton Niseko Village: Positioned near the Niseko Village Gondola, this Niseko Hotel provides convenient access to the mountain’s summit in just seven minutes.
- Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz Carlton Reserve: This luxury hotel blends modern elegance with Japanese culture by offering traditional Japanese onsen experiences for guests.
How to get to Niseko from Chitose Airport?
In this Niseko travel guide, you will find various transportation options to choose from:
1. Airport Shuttle
Airport shuttles are conveniently located at both the Domestic Terminal Building and the International Building, providing transportation to different destinations. Ticket prices start at JPY 3,000 or USD 21.39.
2. Niseko Bus Transfer
Buses in the airport vicinity operate daily, connecting various areas, including Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village, Annupuri, and Moiwa. Tickets cost JPY 3,000 or USD 21.39.
3. Train
The JR Rapid Airport Line is an option for reaching Niseko, with a travel time of around 2.5 hours. The ticket price is JPY 3,000 or USD 21.39.
4. Taxi
Taxis are suitable for those in a hurry or with substantial luggage. Fares range from JPY 3,000 to 30,000 or USD 21.39 to 213.88. When you are going to Niseko from Chitose Airport, Taxi also offers a comfortable ride for you.
5. Car Rental
If you prefer driving independently, you can choose to rent a car. Rental rates depend on the type of vehicle and the duration of the rental.
With all the information about going to Niseko from Chitose Airport, are you ready for a vacation? If so, do not hesitate to secure your tickets and lodging through Airpaz immediately!
