Though Niseko is seriously upping its game as a foodie destination as well as attracting more and more people during the summer months, people still head here first and foremost to enjoy the slopes. Niseko’s champagne powder is known the world over and the area is even claimed to be the snowiest resort on the planet. So naturally, you want to make the most of those epic slopes when you’re in town! We’re here to introduce you to your new Niseko besties – the folks at Hokkaido Core.
Expert Guidance for All Levels
Hokkaido Core is a ski and snowboarding school specialising in curated private lessons. This is a great option whether you’re a first time skier or a seasoned powder hound, as the lessons will be created to meet your specific needs. You can come to the team with very specific requirements – or simply leave the planning to these Niseko experts. The ski school can cater to all skill levels and lessons are also available for children.
A lot of ski schools in Niseko hire seasonal staff and lessons seem to be pumped out as if off an assembly line. This company do things differently and focuses on quality rather than quantity.
All the instructors are passionate about their sport and have a minimum of six years of experience as ski instructors. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable about the Niseko ski region which is exactly what you want – someone to guide you to the deepest powder and the runs best suited to your skill level and personal preferences.
Private Ski Lessons in Niseko
So how do the ski and snowboarding lessons work? These are private lessons for a maximum of four guests, though extra people can be added at an additional charge. Lessons can start at any area in Niseko (Hirafu, Hanazono, Annupuri), excluding Niseko Village. Rusutsu is another popular area and lessons are available here at an additional ¥10,000 fee.
We can arrange full-day (6 hours), half-day (3 hours) and evening lessons (2 hours) as well as backcountry guiding. Again, all lessons are designed to fit the specific customer and there’s also flexibility as to when the lessons start. Most other ski schools in Niseko can be incredibly strict with a non-negotiable “you snooze, you lose” policy.
Pricing
Full-Day – Max 4 people
¥65,000 off-peak
¥75,000 peak
(some flexibility with start times)
Half-Day – Max 4 people
¥40,000 off-peak
¥45,000 peak
8:30am & 1pm start
2hr Lesson – Max 4 people
¥26,000 off-peak
¥29,000 peak
8:30am, 10:30am, 2pm & 4:30pm start times
*Peak dates: December 16 – January 5
January 22 – February 2
Next to the expert guiding; added perks that will make your powder day run all the smoother. The team can pick you up anywhere in the Niseko United ski area. Your skis or snowboard and other gear will be stored in the car throughout the day, making logistics a breeze. If you book four or more full-day lessons, the package also includes a fire-side chat before your first day on the slopes, allowing you to connect with your instructor and to get a feel of what’s to come. This is also a great opportunity to get some real insider insight into all things Niseko.
The private ski lessons are very popular and we definitely recommend booking your lessons in advance. If you’re heading to Niseko during the peak dates around Christmas and New Year, lessons can book out.
Why We Love Hokkaido Core
- Private lessons tailored to your needs and skill level
- Expert instructors with years of teaching experience
- Extensive local knowledge bringing you to the best pow
- Flexible start times
- High level of service including transfers, gear storage and more
Ready to hit that Niseko pow? Contact our team and let us know your skill level. Our team can help book ski lessons and arrange all the equipment for you too when you book your Niseko accommodation through Ministry of Villas.
